As tested: $67,000
Engine and transmission: 403-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 with 6-speed manually-shiftable automatic
Fuel economy: 13 city, 19 highway, 15 combined (EPA estimates)
With its current re-do, the Escalade introduced Cadillac's latest design style. It's edgy, but a little softer in the sides than current-generation Cadillac cars. You see some of that new shapeliness on the 2008 Cadillac CTS sedan introduced at the Detroit Auto Show this year.
It's based on the same new platform that underpins GM's other large SUVs and pick-ups. In the Chevrolet Tahoe, that means ride and handling that are amazingly sophisticated for something this size. The Cadillac suffers a little from the heavy 20 inch wheels that are a popular option on this model.
Most Escalade buyers will get the big wheels because this is, after all, the Escalade. If it were me, I'd take ride quality over sparkle and get smaller wheels with more rubber around them.
The Escalade gets an impressive push from its 403 horseower V8 engine. In ordinary driving, it doesn't feel like a rocket, but punch the gas and this jumbo-sized glitterball takes off at a surprising clip.
