Car Review: 2013 Cadillac Escalade

THE 2013 CADILLAC ESCALADE REVIEW

Summary Review by Tess: Larger Than Life Luxury

The 2013 Cadillac Escalade SUV returns for the new model year with minimal changes. Cadillac has long been a force to be reckoned with in the luxury car marketplace, and the Escalade offers more space and more luxurious features than most of its competitors and can even tow over four tons when properly equipped. This added functionality comes at a cost, however; the Escalade offers extremely poor gas mileage and is priced significantly higher than some of its direct competitors. However, the Cadillac name will be enough to ensure an eager audience for this luxurious full-size SUV.

Under the hood
The 6.2-liter V8 engine of the Cadillac Escalade is available with rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive and produces 403 horsepower under the hood, enough to propel this large SUV from 0 to 60 in a quick 6.7 seconds. Its 417 lb-ft of torque provides ample towing power for most drivers. A six-speed shiftable automatic transmission is standard. Fuel economy is well below average at 14 miles to the gallon in the city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway. (See annual fuel costs with the Escalade). The Escalade incorporates antilock brakes, stability and traction controls, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera for safer backing and parking.

Inside the cabin
Luxury is the watchword inside the elegant seven-passenger cabin of the 2013 Cadillac Escalade. Leather upholstery, full power accessories, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation features, and a deluxe Bose stereo system with surround sound, Bluetooth, USB and iPod interfaces are part of the standard features on the base model Escalade. Options include a rear-seat entertainment system, a blind-spot warning feature, and heated steering wheel. A sunroof is also available on upper trim levels.

(See 80+ images of the 2013 Cadillac Escalade).

On the road
The weight of the Cadillac Escalade makes it somewhat less responsive than smaller, more agile competitors. Steering and handling are adequate for most driving needs, however, and the powerful acceleration will please performance-oriented drivers looking for reliable family transportation and a little fun behind the wheel.

Conclusions
The 2013 Cadillac Escalade is a larger-than-life entry in the full-size luxury SUV marketplace and offers exceptional power and performance in this elite automotive segment. However, its inflated price and poor fuel economy will limit its appeal among drivers looking for family transportation at an affordable cost.

Details:
Engine: 6.2-liter OHV V8
Horsepower & Torque: 403 hp/417 lb-ft
Transmission: RWD or AWD six-speed shiftable automatic
Towing Capacity: 8,300 lbs
Maximum Payload: 1,555 lbs
0 to 60: 6.7 seconds
Fuel Economy: 14/18
Base MSRP: $63,170

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