2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV Preview

Written By: MyRide.com
Reprinted under license.

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Introduction

Like a multi-carat ring paraded on the finger of an NBA wife, some things are just so damn shiny and flashy that they don't require a formal introduction. Whether due to overwhelming size or a high blinding factor, there's just no escaping the brilliance. This was the case with the 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV and EXT models that were officially, yet unceremoniously, unveiled at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. There was no press conference rally, no fireworks - the sharp new look, generous use of chrome, and lustrous black paint said all that needed to be said.

Following the recent debut of the 2007 Cadillac Escalade, the Chevrolet Suburban-based ESV adds 21 inches of length to the regular model and hits the market with the same fresh face, accented by vertically-stacked bright headlight housings and an expansive chrome grille inspired by the Cadillac Sixteen concept car. As with its Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL, the Escalade ESV features all-new body work marked with sharp and clean lines, tighter gap tolerances, hidden rocker panels, vents cut into the front fenders, and unique running boards. Of course, if the new looks and blinding use of chrome isn't enough, the Cadillac Escalade ESV distinguishes itself with a 403-horsepower V8 that should excite valet attendants everywhere.

What It Is

Underneath, it's a Chevrolet Suburban (or GMC Yukon XL), albeit one with Cadillac Escalade ESV badging, added luxury features, and that 403-horsepower engine stuffed under the hood. Unlike the offerings from Chevy and GMC, this Caddy seats a maximum of eight passengers rather than nine, and is available in only one all-wheel-drive trim. With the second- and third-row bench seats folded, the Escalade ESV's 137.4-cubic foot cargo area can accommodate an abundant load. In the realm of luxury SUVs, the ESV faces little competition in terms of space and utility.

Why It Matters

Despite all of the news about shrinking sales of large SUVs, this segment is still expected to move between 700-800,000 units annually, with General Motors reportedly grabbing 62 percent of that pie. Gas prices may continue to be volatile, but the fact remains that thousands of affluent American buyers choose to go about their business, be it a family trip to Tahoe or a run to the convenience store, in luxurious style. Competition in this upscale segment is increasingly fierce, yet few players can rival the 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV's enormous appetite for cargo.

When You Can Buy It

Hip-hop customizers and dub designers, rest easy. Though it made its debut at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in January, production versions of the 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV won't be arriving on dealers' lots until the summer of 2006.

How Much It Costs

It seems like it was just yesterday that General Motors was announcing its plans for value pricing, a new plan that would set sticker prices closer to actual transaction prices. Rebates would be largely reduced or eliminated. That was round one - round two came at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where GM announced it was cutting prices across its lineup, including Cadillac, and again, rebates would be reduced.

There's no official word on pricing, but given the General's current focus on value, it's safe to bet that any increase over 2006 will be minimal.

How Quick It Is

Under the hood of the 2006 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a 6.2-liter V8 pushing 403 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and twisting out 417 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. Premium fuel is recommended, and a six-speed automatic transmission distributes power through the Escalade ESV's all-wheel-drive system. Active Fuel Management, the displacement-on-demand fuel-saving technology available on Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL engines, is absent on the Cadillac, though if your shopping list consists of 400-horsepower luxury trucks, chances are fuel economy isn't at the top of your list anyway.

What It Looks Like

From a distance, the 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV looks largely unchanged, but the wheel track has been widened for a more aggressive stance and better stability, the body features tight gap tolerances, and the tailgate handles have been replaced with hidden release buttons. The standard alloys measure 18 inches, though Cadillac will stuff some 22s in the wheel wells if you so desire, though we honestly wonder how many Escalade buyers choose Caddy's designs rather than those from the burgeoning aftermarket.

Inside is a completely redesigned dash, now featuring smooth shapes, with a distinct emphasis put on fit and finish.

What It Does Best

With a 62-percent share of the market in its back pocket, GM obviously knows how to build and sell large SUVs, and the company has done a remarkable job of marketing its most luxurious model, the Cadillac Escalade. Driving an Escalade is still considered cool, and that's not something that can be said for the vast majority of General Motors's vehicles. The ESV capitalized on this by reaching out to a broader audience, those buyers who want the style, luxury, and image of an Escalade, yet desire a bit more utility.

What We Think

It seems ironic that just as the light appears to be dimming on the large SUV segment, GM unveils its best looking lineup to date. The lines of the 2007 Cadillac Escalade are much crisper, and the promise of tighter gap tolerances and a stronger focus on build quality address two of the main complaints with the existing vehicle. This may be the perfect ride for image-conscious parents who have both kids to tote and money to spare.

Specifications

Engine Size and Type: 6.2-liter V8
Horsepower: 403 at 5,700 rpm
Torque: 417 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Length: 222.9 inches
Width: 79.1 inches
Wheelbase: 130 inches
Height: 75.5 inches
Legroom (front/second row/third row): 41.3/39.5/34.9 inches
Headroom (front/second row/third row): 41.1/38.5/38.1 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: 8
Max. Cargo Volume: 137.4 cubic feet
Max. Towing Capacity, lbs.: 7,600
Ground Clearance: 9.2 inches

By Thom Blackett
Photo credit: Cadillac

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