2015 Cadillac Escalade unveiled

Cadillac has revealed the all-new 2015 Escalade at an event in New York.

It is, of course, huge. Measuring 5,180 mm (203.9”) from bumper to bumper, a Range Rover is 181 mm (7.1”) shorter. If that’s not big enough, the Escalade ESV stretches to 5,698 mm (224.3”) and offers extra legroom for passengers in the third row of seats as well as more cargo space.

Despite the bulk it’s not a bad looking vehicle, thanks to decent proportions and nicely detailed front and rear ends that incorporate distinctive LED light arrays.

Cadillac Escalade (2015) Front Side

But most customers are probably going to be more interested in the interior, a place that’s reckoned to set new benchmarks for luxury and craftsmanship. Those are bold claims, especially considering some previous Cadillac cabins have lagged behind their European and Japanese rivals.

In attempting to create an opulent ambience, particular attention has been paid to keeping things quiet. More effective acoustic insulation, a stiffer body shell, improved door seals and the adoption of Bose Active Noise Cancellation are all employed to help achieve that goal. Fit and finish is said to be better too, while premium materials such as real wood and suede are used to provide an upmarket feel.

Cadillac Escalade (2015) InteriorCadillac Escalade ESV (2015) Rear Seats

Beneath the skin lies a fairly traditional set-up. The latest Escalade sticks to body-on-frame construction, and the rear end still has a live axle. Nevertheless, StabiliTrak electronic stability control is included as standard, plus certain variants get Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping.

Powering the Escalade is an updated 6.2 litre V8 engine that comes connected to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission. Developing 420 bhp (313 kW / 425 PS) with 623 Nm (460 lb/ft) of peak torque, it features cylinder deactivation for enhanced fuel economy. Buyers will be able to choose from either rear- or all-wheel drive.

Cadillac Escalade ESV (2015) Rear SideCadillac Escalade (2015) Rear Side

While most other cars and SUVs would probably come off worse in an accident with an Escalade, that hasn’t stopped Cadillac from fitting a wide range of safety devices. For example, front seat occupants benefit from a centrally-mounted airbag that aims to protect them when the vehicle is struck on the opposite side to where they are sitting.

Furthermore, front and rear automatic braking systems use radar and ultrasonic sensors to detect and avoid potential crashes. Also available are side blind zone, rear cross traffic, forward collision and lane departure alert systems.

Production of the 2015 Cadillac Escalade is scheduled to begin next spring. Prices have yet to be announced.

Related posts:
2015 Cadillac Escalade teased
2014 Cadillac CTS unveiled
2014 Cadillac ELR unveiled

Images © General Motors.

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