Cadillac Escalade

A Cadillac Escalade in front of a Wal-Mart in Los Lunas, New Mexico

The Cadillac Escalade was introduced for the 1999 model year in response to German, Japanese competitors and Ford's 1998 model year release of Lincoln Navigator by GM luxury brand Cadillac, which was the division's first major entry into the popular SUV market. The Escalade was originally based on sister company GMC's Yukon Denali, but was recently redesigned to make its appearance fall more in line with Cadillac's new design theme.

When the Fleetwood Brougham was phased out in 1996, there was no rear wheel drive Cadillac in the vehicle lineup - the Escalade is considered as a replacement these days. This was not the first Chevrolet-based Cadillac: the first-generation Seville and mid-1980s Cimarron were based on entry-level Chevrolet vehicles.

The Escalade is currently one of Cadillac's most popular models, and has even spawned two variations: the Escalade EXT pickup truck (based on the Chevrolet Avalanche) and the Escalade ESV stretched length model (based on the Chevrolet Suburban).

All three Escalades feature the special High-Output Vortec 6000 6.0 L V8 engine, all wheel drive, and unique fascias and interior trim.

The Escalade line has proven very popular with after-market tuners, who personalize vehicles for usually affluent customers. While such work is not done by the Cadillac factory, much can be ordered through a Cadillac dealer and done by third-party companies. Popular modifications include larger wheels, increased engine performance and custom paint.

Major competitors include: Mercedes-Benz G-Class (and possibly the smaller M-Class), BMW X5, Lexus LX series, Infiniti QX56, Lincoln Navigator.

External links

• Cadillac Escalade Pictures