If you like the design of the current Cadillac Escalade, this is your last chance to buy one before the new body style comes to dealerships in mid-2014. The first Escalade hit dealerships in 1999, officially launching an era defined by bling. The current rendition offers a bevy of features at all trim levels. It uses a single engine, the 6.2-liter V8 that produces 402 horsepower and is equipped with E85 capability. Both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems are available. It’s also offered as a long-wheelbase model. Fuel economy is 14 mpg city and 18 mpg highway on the rear-wheel drive model; all-wheel drive Escalades earn 13 mpg city and 18 mpg highway.
If you prefer not to wait for the new 2015 Escalade, or like the idea of finding a good deal on an outgoing 2014 model, we recommend the $73,245 Premium. We think the extra cost over the $64,740 Base and $68,965 Luxury is money well spent for most families in the market for a premium SUV.
At $81,515, however, the Platinum begins to compete with the more accomplished Range Rover.
What's New for 2014
Minor touches — like a new exterior color, Midnight Plum Metallic — are added.
Choosing Your Cadillac Escalade
Choose your Cadillac Escalade >>
As the 2015 model enters the marketplace, new 2014 models should give shoppers a bargaining chip at dealerships. If you’re waiting for better fuel economy and more sophisticated navigation, hold off on your purchase until next summer.