Used 2003 Cadillac Escalade ESV Review

With its brash styling, class-leading V8 power, well-sorted vehicle dynamics and lavish interior, the ESV is an SUV worthy of the Cadillac name.

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what's new

The ESV is an all-new model in the Cadillac lineup. Essentially nothing more than a slightly stretched version of the standard Escalade, the ESV incorporates all of the improvements made to the standard Escalade for 2003.

vehicle overview

It may have a fancy new name, but don't be fooled. The Cadillac Escalade ESV is nothing more than a slightly stretched version of the standard Escalade -- think Chevy Tahoe vs. Chevy Suburban.

We expect that almost every feature available on the standard model will carry over to the ESV. That means brutish power in the form of a 6.0-liter, 345-horsepower V8, full-time all wheel drive, and a road sensing suspension that delivers a surprisingly taut and controlled ride.

Although almost all the interior features will remain the same, the ESV is expected to get a revised interior that will debut across the lineup for '03. The plush leather seats, Zebrano wood trim, and terrific Bose stereo system from the current model will likely stay, while the third row seat that's optional in the short wheelbase Escalade will probably come standard in the stretched ESV.

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edmunds expert review process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

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