2017 Cadillac Escalade
The 2017 Cadillac Escalade continued its reign as a benchmark for American luxury SUVs, offering a commanding presence, powerful performance, and a wealth of premium features. It blended brawn with sophistication, appealing to buyers who desired a full-size, body-on-frame SUV with an upscale experience.
Highlights
- Engine: At the heart of the 2017 Escalade beats a formidable 6.2L V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerhouse produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, delivering robust acceleration and effortless towing capability. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Safety Features: The Escalade came equipped with an impressive suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants and aid the driver:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: This system automatically applies the brakes to help prevent or mitigate a front-end collision if a potential impact is detected.
- Forward Collision Alert: Alerts the driver to potential forward collisions using visual and audible warnings.
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: Lane Keep Assist gently guides the vehicle back into its lane if it detects unintentional drifting, while Lane Departure Warning provides an audible alert.
- Side Blind Zone Alert: Detects vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts them with a visual indicator in the side mirror.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching vehicles from either side when backing up.
- StabiliTrak Stability Control System: Enhances the driver's ability to maintain control during sudden maneuvers or adverse road conditions by applying brakes and reducing engine power.
- Surround Vision: Utilizes multiple exterior cameras to create a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvering.
- Summary of Trims: The 2017 Escalade was available in three distinct trims, each offering an increasingly opulent experience:
- Luxury: The entry point still offered a high level of luxury with features like Nappa leather seating, heated and cooled front seats, a Bose® Active Noise Cancellation system, and a hands-free power liftgate.
- Premium: Stepping up to the Premium trim added even more convenience and technology, including a driver awareness package (incorporating many of the safety features listed above), a sunroof, and a heated steering wheel.
- Platinum: The pinnacle of the Escalade lineup, the Platinum trim exuded ultimate luxury. It featured an upgraded interior with Semi-Aniline leather, heated and cooled front and rear seats, a suede microfiber headliner, and premium floor mats, further solidifying its status as a top-tier luxury SUV.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Magnetic Ride Control: This adaptive suspension system continuously monitors road conditions and adjusts the shock absorber damping in real-time, providing a remarkably smooth and composed ride for such a large vehicle.
- Impressive Interior: The cabin was a masterclass in craftsmanship, featuring high-quality materials, meticulous attention to detail, and a quiet, serene atmosphere.
- Spaciousness and Versatility: With three rows of seating, the Escalade offered ample passenger space. The power-folding second and third-row seats provided excellent cargo versatility for hauling luggage, groceries, or sporting equipment.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Cadillac Escalade generally means experiencing a high level of comfort and prestige. The driving experience is characterized by its effortless power delivery and the sophisticated ride provided by Magnetic Ride Control. The cabin remains exceptionally quiet, allowing for relaxed conversations even at highway speeds.
In terms of maintenance, as a luxury vehicle with a large V8 engine, expect routine maintenance costs to be higher than average. This includes oil changes (using specific synthetic oil), filter replacements, and more frequent brake and tire replacements due to the vehicle's size and weight. Regular servicing at a Cadillac dealership or a qualified mechanic familiar with luxury vehicles is recommended to keep the Escalade in optimal condition.
Insurance costs for the 2017 Escalade are also likely to be higher than for more mainstream SUVs. This is due to the vehicle's luxury positioning, powerful engine, advanced technology, and potentially higher repair costs in the event of an accident. Factors such as your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will significantly influence your insurance premiums.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Escalade excels in many areas, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Fuel Economy: The powerful 6.2L V8 engine, while providing excellent performance, is not particularly fuel-efficient. Expect below-average MPG figures, especially in city driving.
- Third-Row Seating Space: While the Escalade offers three rows, the third row is best suited for children or adults on shorter journeys. It can feel somewhat cramped for taller passengers.
- Maneuverability in Tight Spaces: Despite features like Surround Vision, the Escalade's substantial size can make it challenging to maneuver in very tight urban environments or crowded parking lots.
- Infotainment System Learning Curve: While Cadillac's CUE infotainment system offered a wealth of features, some users found its touch-sensitive controls and menu structure to have a slight learning curve.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Cadillac Escalade remains a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious, powerful, and capable full-size SUV. It masterfully blends a commanding presence with a refined driving experience and an opulent interior, all backed by a robust V8 engine and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies. While fuel economy and maneuverability in tight spaces are considerations, the Escalade delivers on its promise of upscale American luxury and broad-shouldered capability.