2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV
2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV Review
- An extensive suite of standard and optional driver safety aids
- Optional diesel engine a class-exclusive
- Significantly more interior space than outgoing model
- New interior design is among best in the class
- Lacks off-road prowess of some rivals
- Large footprint makes it difficult to park
- Fully redesigned for 2021
- More interior space, especially for rear passengers
- New driver aids, including Cadillac's Super Cruise
- Part of the fifth Escalade generation introduced for 2021
For the past few years we've ranked the Lincoln Navigator as one of the best large SUVs you can buy. Its traditional rival, the Escalade, hasn't fared as well. But the balance of power might be shifting with the debut of the fully redesigned 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. The ESV is the long-wheelbase version of the Escalade, which means it has more rear-seat space and cargo space than the regular Escalade.
The fifth-generation Escalade follows the related GMC Yukon XL and Chevrolet Suburban to market and benefits from a lot of the same changes. Most notably, all of these SUVs get a new independent rear suspension that promises a smoother ride and increased interior space. The Escalade ESV also packs new technology features, including Cadillac's Super Cruise, which is one of the best semi-automated driving systems around, and a sharp-looking display that spans most of the dashboard.
Which Escalade ESV does Edmunds recommend?
Cadillac Escalade ESV models
The 2021 Escalade ESV is a three-row large luxury SUV that comes in five trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum. The Escalade seats up to eight with the second-row bench seat. The optional captain's chairs drop the count to seven.
2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Escalade ESV safety features:
- Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking
- Automatically applies the brakes when the vehicle determines a collision is imminent.
- Automatic Seat Belt Tightening
- Secures passengers by automatically tightening seat belts during emergency braking.
- Side Blind Zone Alert
- Illuminates a light in the sideview mirrors when sensors see a vehicle in the Escalade's blind spots.
Cadillac Escalade ESV vs. the competition
2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV
2020 Lincoln Navigator
Cadillac Escalade ESV vs. Lincoln Navigator
The Navigator L is the Escalade ESV's traditional rival, both in spirit and capability. Both are traditional truck-based SUVs swimming in a sea of more car-like crossover SUVs. The Navigator L was a revelation when it debuted a few years back, putting everyone from Cadillac to Mercedes-Benz on notice with its excellent interior, comfortable and quiet ride, and strong engine with high tow ratings. Even a few years on, it's one of our favorite SUVs around.
Cadillac Escalade ESV vs. Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is our top-ranked luxury SUV. It combines class-leading technology features, powerful yet relatively fuel-efficient engines, and refined on-road manners in a handsome and quiet package. You get a lot of standard features on the GLS, but adding options jacks up the price in a hurry. Still, the S-Class of SUVs justifies its cost and is the current standard set by the segment.
Cadillac Escalade ESV vs. BMW X7
The X7 is the first full-size luxury SUV from BMW, and it boasts a lineup of powerful engines, refined road manners, and a long list of standard and optional features. While we don't find the tech or driver aids on the level of what Mercedes or Cadillac offers, the X7 is a quiet, comfortable and well-appointed luxury SUV.
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FAQ
Is the Cadillac Escalade ESV a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV:
- Fully redesigned for 2021
- More interior space, especially for rear passengers
- New driver aids, including Cadillac's Super Cruise
- Part of the fifth Escalade generation introduced for 2021
Is the Cadillac Escalade ESV reliable?
Is the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV?
The least-expensive 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV is the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV Luxury 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $79,195.
Other versions include:
- Premium Luxury 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $88,995
- Premium Luxury 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $85,995
- Sport 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $88,595
- Sport 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $91,595
- Sport Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $105,995
- Premium Luxury Platinum 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $105,995
- Sport Platinum 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $102,995
- Luxury 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $79,195
- Premium Luxury Platinum 4dr SUV (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $102,995
- Luxury 4dr SUV 4WD (6.2L 8cyl 10A) which starts at $82,195