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Used 2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
43 reviews

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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2005 Escalade ESV, so we've included reviews for other years of the Escalade ESV since its last redesign.

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Pros
Cons
3.88 out of 5 stars

Very reliable mechanically. Electronics...not so much. Gets very expensive!

carguy2021, 07/25/2012
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
23 of 24 people found this review helpful

I had it from about 90k miles to 140k miles. You can't beat the interior comfort and ride quality. The engine performed flawlessly, as did the transmission. There was always a "growling" noise coming from somewhere in the transfer case. It was very annoying, but I never did anything about it other than change the differential fluids and trans/transfer case fluids. This did not make the noise go away. From time to time the "service ride control" message would appear...and then go away. The "service tire pressure monitor" message came on from time to time as well. I had to replace an abs wheel speed sensor at about 115k. Rear susp leveler compressor went bad. Front Heated seats broke.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

ESCALADE ESV

VICKY, 07/24/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

We just drove from Thomasville,Ga to Long Beach,CA and back. We were officials at the Olympic Swim Trials. We had to take a lot of stuff as we made several stops on the way and back. The gas millage was acceptable. We have the navigation sytem, satellite radio, DVD and TV. It was like riding in a 5 star hotel by day. We love it.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best Truck on Market

Bizzy, 12/19/2005
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

My Platinum Escalade ESV is the best truck on the market. It handles superbly, and for a big truck it has a lot of get up and go. I love to put it on the highway and go from Maryland to Miami or beyond. For long distances driving there is nothing better. The gas mileage isn't great, but it's well worth it. I will definitely trade it in for another one just like it in a year or two.

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5 out of 5 stars

fun, fun, fun

baru, 02/07/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

RAIN, WIND, DEAD OF NIGHT..ETC. IF THE US POSTAL SVC HAD A TRUCK LIKE THIS THEIR SLOGAN WOULD BE THE MOST BELIEVABLE STATEMENT EVER MADE.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Well Worth the Money

BillyG, 11/14/2005
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I have had a Chevrolet Suburban and a GMC Yukon XL and neither compare to the Cadillac Escalade ESV. It is a very expensive SUV but it is well worth the extra money. The only negative is the gas mileage but I knew that before buying. I strongly recommend buying to anyone considering the Escalade ESV.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Seriously?

ford guy, 04/20/2010
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful

I bought my escalade since I had to trade in my 2003 avalanche since the rear end locked up and the front hubs were shot. So I bought another full sized Chevy SUV. At first I was very happy! The truck performs above and beyond! Looks hotter than any other truck out there. The bad. Had to replace the transfer case at 65,000 miles, tire sensor at 60k, a $350 shock at 72,000 miles while doing xcountry road trip, heated and cooled seats went up front, brake caliper seizes up! Cup holder doors wouldn't close, had to call Cadillac since it was on back order. Steering makes noise in front. Navi gets confused sometimes. No factory cross members! Seriously on a platinum edition

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Platinum Edition Escalade ESV

compseccon, 11/17/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Minor ergonomic things; fuel cap tether is too short; navigation dvd is outdated by about 10 years (no update); voice recognition is sketchy (difficult to hear and does not recognize voice numbers clearly); easy exit does not move steering wheel upwards; rear bench seat has very little leg room; drivers side passenger is a little cramped if driver has seat back. Eight pax is not very comfortable, six adults is reality.

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5 out of 5 stars

Didn't want it, got it anyway and love it

Shawn Irving, 05/03/2016
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful

It's a beast!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.38 out of 5 stars

Excellent overall package

Chas., 04/06/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Expensive but worth it. Feels safe as a vault, handles like a much smaller vehicle and has performance plus. Wonderful on long trips. Traded a 2002 Escalade AWD in for this one and the 2004 seems much improved. Seems to hold resale value well.

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5 out of 5 stars

Excalade ESV

Charles, 06/10/2005
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

If there was anything I felt was better than my Cadillac Escalade ESV I'd have bought it. The only real problem I have with this truck is that, for the cost of this vehicle, I think its pretty cheap to not have a light in the ash tray and that your passanger has to use a flashlight to see into the glove box at night (there is no light there either). I buy a $70,000 truck and GM wants to save $35 on parts and labor!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Platinum Edition

jordanw, 07/14/2006
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

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).

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5 out of 5 stars

All that and a bag of chips

jerry, 08/16/2005
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is the ultimate SUV, if your looking for class and style, while not having to compromise saftey or comfort this is the way to go. Sure you may pay a bit more, however you get a lot more. And you truely get what you pay for. The ride is second to none, and the performance is that of a mid size SUV, I highly reccomend this vehicle to anyone that is looking to experience the true full size class and luxury, that everyone should experience.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

An Excellent SUV

Susie Oursler, 03/27/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The 2003 Escalade ESV is my family room on wheels. With an DVD player and 4 wirelsss headphones, our large family can travel in comfort over long trips. The acceleration in this large SUV is impressive). I am able to travel up steep grades with absolutely no feeling of engine struggle or hesitation. The brakes are also very effective. I have little difficulty maneuvering it, especially with the help of the park assist feature. Overall, this is a wonderful luxury SUV with all the desireable amenities.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Cadillac Escalade ESV

SamE, 05/16/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Never have I seen an SUV with as many practical and functional features as this one. Adjustable pedals, curbside assist mirrors when backing (select both or either one). The ride is by far better than most any luxury car that I have had the opportunity to ride in. You have plenty of "pick-up" when you hit the gas and it cruises and corners like it's on rails. I'm highly satisfied.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great

Smith, 01/29/2006
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

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.

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5 out of 5 stars

2004 cadillac escalade esv

solomon, 11/20/2010
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

i had a 2000 Cadillac Escalade and now i bought a 2004 and i love it believe it or not i just bought it on 11-15- 2010 and i can't believe the great fuel economy 15.9 wow my focus that is new only gets 22 miles per gal for a 4 cyl that's realy awful i rather ride my escalade i love my used truck and highly recommend buying one and it is fun to drive oh got to run premium gas on 6.0 engines .

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4.88 out of 5 stars

SSSWWEEEEEETT

Warren McCafferty, 02/05/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I've owned Beamers and this thing blows them away. True American excess,it is spectacular

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4.25 out of 5 stars

It's Just okay!

G41, 04/07/2008
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Purchased the 2004 Caddy ESV in 2005 on a trade in of the 2002 Cadillac Escalade which was a lemon. The longer body style has improve for long hauling then the short body style. My 2004 Caddy does not have the DVD entertainment, but does have everything else i.e. navigation, satellite radio, CD player and a decent radio. Now that analog has become extinct OnStar and the other related emergency connections are useless. Vehicle has great "get up and go power!" Navigation CD is now outdated there is no new CD for the 2004 system to update, what a joke. Have not tried this vehicle off road, but in some of the heavy snow falls in the North East it out performed it self. It's just okay!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

v

Jay0450, 02/22/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful

It is a great truck to me

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome!!!!

ToddBarraclough, 11/08/2003
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the coolest SUV i have ever seen!!!!!!!!!!!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

My review

SkyLiner139, 01/24/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is awsome

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5 out of 5 stars

The Best SUV On The Planet.

nbaray23, 05/01/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the best suv on the planet.You can't get any better than this.The luxury of a Bentley with the horsepower of a coupe.

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5 out of 5 stars

Cadillac of SUVs

Hz48yg, 08/27/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is one outstanding vehicles. It has the comfort and refinement that you'd expect from a premium SUV, but is also rugged and can handle agressive towing and off-road manuvers. We just returned from a long road trip and it was like staying at a 5 star hotel with wheels. The HVAC system is great. The entertainment system was a big hit with the kids (big & little), and the XM satellite radio keeps you entertained even where there is little or no AM/FM signal. The navigation system and OnStar are outstanding. Take it from us, there is no reason to buy an import as this SUV represents world class comfort and world class quality. We love this vehicle!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Own One and Loving It!

yossi oren, 01/27/2006
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I leased my Cadillac Escalade ESV almost a year and a half ago. I love it! It gets looks and compliments where ever I go (I have black with shale leather and ALL the windows tinted. It rides like a dream and has got lots of power and tourque. Everyone at my daughter's class loves to ride in it and blast music or watch a DVD. I can't wait to get an '07 or '08 when my lease expires!

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5 out of 5 stars

It is better than I thought.

Paul, 07/30/2007
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The vehicle has a lot of power. When it engages, it sets you back in the seat and lets you know but it does it gently, not like my previous 1999 Suburban with a 5.7L. More plush over bumps, on turns, and acceleration. The ammenities are overwhelming compared to a Suburban, and it feels like you got what you paid for.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Comfort and Now Affordable

Mast, 11/25/2008
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We have 4 kids and wanted a comfortable vechicle that allows you some space in the trunk. Wow did we find the right vechicle. The kids love the extra room and the captains seats and my wife loves to drive it. It has so many options that we are still finding new options that we did not even know we had. It is worth the extra money to spend over the Chevy and the 6.0 liter engine runs great. This is by far the best SUV we have owned.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Reliable & Classy

2005 Cadillac Esc ES, 06/15/2005
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love the Cadillac Escalade ESV. It has a beautiful exterior, luxurious interior and great hi tech gadgets. It is definitely great for family trips, its extremely comfortable. It makes me feel safe when I drive on the freeway. My husband definitely makes good use of it with his customers. I don't worry about mileage because a truck like this is definitely worth spending extra on gas. This is a vehicle worth driving!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Vehicle

Escalade ESV, 07/09/2005
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Outstanding ride and performance, wind noise sometimes.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

rocketship

abccddfr, 08/19/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

drives like a rocketship. handles better than my lexus ls 400. only downside is low gas mileage, however it takes regular vs premium as many imports require. electronics are impressive[satilite radio,navigation system,bose sterio,etc.]

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5 out of 5 stars

Mike's Review

Mike's ESV, 09/10/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Awesome vehicle.....Great Handling, and lots of room. Would highly recommend to larger families looking for a big vehicle.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The Cadillac of SUV's

mikeraymond, 10/15/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

For anyone who thinks this is just a Suburban, you hanv't driven it yet. The AWD and Stabilitrack system are GREAT. Plenty of Power- fuel economy just OK. Heated AND AirConditioned Seats- front & center- work GREAT. Memory positions for Driver 1 & Driver 2 not only set seat position, but outside mirrors & ALL radio presets. There is room for some improvement, but not much.

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5 out of 5 stars

caddi escalde

Dick Red , 10/19/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

it isa very nice and classy car.it is very durable and reliable.the seats are extremely comfortable.

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5 out of 5 stars

excelent

deidre , 12/01/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

the best car ever

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4.63 out of 5 stars

2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Review

Berner1, 12/13/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the second Escalade that I have purchased. I was worried to get rid of my 2003 but I am very happy with upgrade to the Platinum Edition. It has plenty of room for the Berner and extra kids in the neighborhood. When we go on trips, it is roomy and capable enough to tow all of my toys. For those who think it is a Suburban think and look again. The two vehicles are totally different. I have owned both. Highly recommend this truck to all families.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Luxury At Its Best

TheDebutante, 12/30/2004
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My 2005 Escalade ESV is my third Escalade and it is my favorite one to date! I began with the introductory 1999 model and then owned a 2003. The 2005 Escalade ESV is by far Cadillac's finest accomplishment and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting a luxury ride, a large seating capacity, and every option available -- with the exception of the chauffeur. The touch screen radio -- including the XM radio - - and Navigation system are two options that were not on my previous Escalades and I will never be without them again! The ride in the ESV is comparable to riding on a cloud and the maneuverability in an SUV of this size is amazing! You will not be disappointed in the 2005 Escalade ESV!

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5 out of 5 stars

great transportation

happy, 01/04/2005
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Use ESV for extensive loads and trips and always feel Escalade could do more. My 4th one and very happy with all of them. Both short and long wheelbase have been a joy to drive.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Lovin' my ESV

hc, 12/02/2005
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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!

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5 out of 5 stars

Rid'in in Style!

Rose , 01/28/2006
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Awesome

David Buringrud, 11/04/2007
2005 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just traded in my Silverado SS for the Escalade. Best thing i did. This is luxury at its finest. The ride is awesome.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome machine

ludhiana, 08/06/2003
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

Can't be better than a Escalade ESV

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3.75 out of 5 stars

GM Let Down

johnj, 07/13/2008
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV Platinum Edition AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

I purchased this vehicle with the understanding that it was Cadillac Certified with the extended warranty unfortunately the dealer ripped me off and there is no warranty. While Cadillac is a good product there are too many parts as pieces that can break. I have had the car in for warranty work 5 times in the last 10 months, nothing major but it will add up as soon as the original warranty runs out. The vehicle is still under the original warranty for another month but after that I am out of luck after that thanks to a dishonest dealer and GM customer service unwilling to do anything about it. Beside that I think it is a good vehicle but lacks a lot of features of the new models.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Cadillac Escalade ESV

Don w/ an Escalade, 10/28/2003
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great In Looks Poor In Quality 5,000 miles - Transmission problems. It "clunks" when downshifting when coming to a stop. Dealer says its normal - BUT IS IS NOT NORMAL - no car I know does this. I have had other Cadillacs, nothing like this. FUEL ECONOMY: 12 MPG Combined City and Highway. Need high octance (expensive) fuel.

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4 out of 5 stars

great suv

foxcroft, 05/25/2004
2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV AWD 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

Ithink it is really ugly but I love the comfort and the way it drives. No problems as yet poor gas mileage tho

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