The 2020 Escalade model line includes the extended-length Escalade ESV, as well as Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum versions of each. With any of these models you also have a choice between rear-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive.
All Escalades have a 6.2L V8 engine. With an aluminum block and heads, direct injection, variable valve timing, this is a big V8, but a thoroughly modern one. The engine makes 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and thanks to an Active Fuel Management system, which will run the engine on four of its cylinders during coasting or some lower-speed cruising conditions, it returns EPA ratings of up to 14 mpg city, 23 highway.
The Escalade is built on a fully boxed frame, which provides the strength needed for towing and larger payloads. All versions of the Escalade now also include Magnetic Ride Control, a system that uses special shocks that can change their damping characteristics in just a fraction of a second, allowing softness to soak up rough roads and firming up for quick emergency maneuvers when needed. Meanwhile, Active Noise Cancellation technology and special acoustic-laminate glass help keep it quiet inside. The Escalade also includes 4-wheel disc brakes--now with Duralife rotors with extended service life.
Cadillac Escalade ESV models are about 20 inches longer than the standard Escalade, with a wheelbase that's 14 inches longer. Both offer a seating capacity of up to eight, depending on the layout. Seating space is technically the same; the key difference is that ESV models offer easier access to the third-row seats, as well as more than double the cargo space behind the third row (39.3 cubic feet for the ESV, versus 15.2 cubic feet for the standard-length Escalade). Throughout the Escalade's interior the traditional luxury ambiance hasn't been forgotten. The cabin is plush and well-appointed with cut-and-sewn materials and real wood trim.
In the instrument panel for all models is a high-resolution 12.3-inch information cluster that replaces conventional analog gauges. Offering a choice of layouts as well as a go-to point for trip-computer functions, navigation and hands-free calling functions. Meanwhile, there's also the Cadillac User Experience (CUE), a system that uses sophisticated voice controls combined with a capacitive screen at the center of the instrument panel; it even incorporates proximity sensing--showing different menus depending on how near the user's hand is to the display. The system includes Siri Eyes Free compatibility with the capability to read incoming text. The OnStar 4G LTE data connection is also available, which turns the vehicle into a high-speed mobile hot spot.
All Escalades come with a comprehensive airbag system that includes seat-mounted side airbags, front driver and passenger frontal and curtain and side-impact airbags for all occupants. Luxury and Premium models add additional safety features that include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert. An available Driver Awareness Package includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and a Safety Alert seat that transmits warnings to the driver with patterned vibrations. A front and rear automatic braking system works to avoid or mitigate the severity of a potential accident.
There's also a Bose CenterPoint sound system in the 2020 Escalade; it includes 16 speakers, including five in the instrument panel and doors, as well as SurroundStage signal processing. A Blu-Ray DVD rear entertainment system is incorporated with a 9-inch screen that includes two wireless digital headphones and USB and HDMI inputs.
A plethora of optional equipment can be added to the Escalade including power-retractable side steps, integrated roof rails, power sunroof, a cooled console with covered storage and safety features such as automatic seatbelt tightening, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, a Safety Alert Seat, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Enhanced Automatic Braking.
