2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Review
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
With its brash styling, class-leading V8 power, well-sorted vehicle dynamics and cavernous interior, the ESV is the Escalade of choice for those who want maximum utility and luxury.
Pros
Endless V8 power, plush ride quality, feels relatively nimble around turns, comfortable seats, plenty of cargo capacity, all the latest technological gadgets, best-in-class towing capacity.
Cons
Poor mileage, huge size makes it cumbersome in tight spots, a few noticeable instances of cost cutting.
What's New for 2005
Changes this year include a redesigned gauge cluster, touchscreen capability with the optional navigation system, a more user-friendly driver information system and a refreshed door panel appearance. Additionally, walnut burled wood trim replaces last year's Zebrano wood.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Awesome
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
Review
Just traded in my Silverado SS for the Escalade. Best thing i did. This is luxury at its finest. The ride is awesome.
Favorite Features
Navigation, Bose stereo, sunroof
Suggested Improvements
Easier access to 3rd row
1 out 1 people found this review helpful
Platinum Edition
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 8 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
Review
We have had our Escalade ESV Platinum Edition for almost two years now. Overall I have loved it. It is powerful, safe, and comfortible. The features of the Platinum Edition are top notch, but I do believe for the price point some features are missing such as adaptive cruise control, night vision, rain sensing wipers, massaging front seats, parking sensors in the front, and a heated third row. All are availible on other Cadillacs why not the Platinum? As for the cooled seats, what a great innovation! However, the driver's seat one doesn't seem to work (I will have the dealer look at it soon) but in the backseats they work especially well it is almost like heaven. I would buy another one (maybe the new 2007's).
Favorite Features
The heated and cooled seats (two rows), heated and cooled cupholders, DVD players, and comfort.
Suggested Improvements
Redesign the front cupholders, some drinks do not fit, the cool seats could get colder, the navigation system will not let you put in adresses while moving, the rear DVD needs to play two movies on the two screens, the 3rd row DVD screen is too close to 3rd row seat, and my truck has squeaks and rattles at only 24,000 miles.
Great
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 4 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
Review
This Cadillac Escalade ESV is stylish and fun to drive. It also makes an appearance when you pull up in one going to a party or meeting. However, just wait a couple months and you can get the completely redisigned Escalade with better options and real leather and wood. That's right, the leather in the 2006 Escalade is cheap compared to the 2007 model which will be available soon.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
Rid'in in Style!
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 10 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
Review
There is not enough space for me to to describe how really great and wonderful my 2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV is. I love it! Mine is fully loaded with everything you can imagine, from dual DVD screens to heated and cooled seats and cup holders with special stainless travel mugs designed to keep your beverage hot or cold for hours. Its ton of room and comfort make this vehicle my favorite ride of all time! Think you have low tire pressure? Just push a button and check it from the inside of your car. This is a great feature since I hate doing it manually. The Bose stereo system sounds as if you have surrond sound, and the touch screen programming is awesome.
Favorite Features
Everything!
Suggested Improvements
Make it have better gas mileage....the Ameican dream. But if you worry that much about the price of gas, a larger vehicle is probably not a wise choice. It's a trade off but I would not compromise the comfort, beauty and features of this vehicle!
Lovin' my ESV
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 10 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 1 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
Review
I absolutely love my Cadillac Escalade. The only two things I would change is make the windshield taller (my Expedition had a bigger windshield) - it is hard to see when you have the visor down. I wish Cadillac would have the keyless entry pad on the door like my Fords did. This makes life much easier. Other than that - I love it!
Favorite Features
I love everything about this truck! It rides beautifully - it's comfortable to drive and ride in. The kids love the 2 DVD screens. I have plenty of room in the back for strollers and groceries.
Suggested Improvements
Bigger windshield and keyless entry pad on door.
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