The 2015 Cadillac Escalade epitomizes luxury and size, but does it live up to the Cadillac name? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of its driving experience, performance, and overall design.
Driving the 2015 Escalade: A Quiet Cabin and a Powerful Engine
The Escalade’s cabin is remarkably quiet, almost eerily so. However, this tranquility allows the transmission’s whine to become noticeable, especially during shifts. The suspension offers two modes: Tour and Sport. While Sport mode provides a firmer ride, Tour mode can surprisingly lead to the nose scraping on driveways, even with its considerable ground clearance.
Compared to its competitor, the Lincoln Navigator, the Escalade feels more solid and substantial. Its robust V8 engine, while not as quick off the line as the Navigator’s EcoBoost, delivers impressive acceleration at higher speeds. The brakes, however, feel somewhat lacking. While capable of locking up the 22-inch wheels, they exhibit a soft and unresponsive feel at lower pressure levels. Handling is predictable for a three-ton SUV on all-season tires. Fuel economy is reasonable for its size and power, averaging around 16.5 mpg in mixed driving and 20.2 mpg on the highway.
Design and Style: Opulence Meets Overkill?
The Escalade is often hailed as the last true Cadillac, boasting a distinctive name, a powerful V8 engine (at the time of this review), and an imposing size. Its design is undeniably bold and eye-catching. However, the question remains: does it possess true Cadillac style?
Some argue that the Escalade’s ostentatious design lacks the elegance and sophistication associated with the brand. It could be perceived as a glorified Chevrolet Tahoe adorned with chrome accents. Its sheer size might be considered excessive, projecting an image of disregard for moderation. Compared to classic Cadillac sedans like the 1977 DeVille or even the massive 1976 Talisman, the Escalade dwarfs them in both size and weight.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag of Luxury and Excess
The 2015 Cadillac Escalade offers a potent blend of luxury, power, and presence. However, its excessive size, questionable styling choices, and some minor performance drawbacks prevent it from being a truly exceptional vehicle. While it caters to a specific market seeking a bold and imposing SUV, it may not fully embody the elegance and sophistication traditionally associated with the Cadillac brand. The hope remains that future Cadillac models, like the CT6 sedan, will successfully incorporate the Escalade’s features into a more refined and stylish package. Ultimately, the 2015 Escalade represents a compelling, albeit flawed, entry in the luxury SUV segment.
