With improved power and a refined style, this Escalade is GM’s best SUV yet.
With any luxury SUV, status is one of the main reasons for purchasing one. But the Cadillac Escalade provides a different type of status, one that exemplifies not of exclusive luxury and wealth, but one that says “I’m pretty cool!” The 2007 Cadillac Escalade has a great appearance and many of its admirable features are high-technology additions that help to set it apart from your average Tahoe or Yukon.
Our test model was equipped with the 6.2-liter Vortec V8 engine and with 403 horsepower under the hood, the relatively heavy Escalade had enough power to accelerate onto the freeway, but just shy of giving it a performance feel. We felt that an additional 25-30 horsepower should do the trick. Nevertheless, the Escalade did not feel sluggish and throttle response was crisp and we really enjoyed the healthy exhaust tone.
With a road sensing suspension system and automatic road leveling, the Escalade does provide good handling characteristics and a super quiet and comfortable ride. On the highway, wind noise was minimal and road noise was virtually non existent. The 18-inch tires and aluminum wheels provide the additional traction that this heavy SUV needed. In addition, traction control and anti-lock brakes are standard equipment, making the Escalade capable of quickly maneuvering around potential danger and keeping control under panic stops.
The Escalade seats seven and with its host of power accessories, including power lift gate, remote vehicle start, power adjustable pedals, rain sensing wipers with heated washer fluid, power fold mirrors, steering wheel radio controls, and much more. It definitely takes a while to find and learn all of the power options available on this SUV, not to mention some of the options that can include a rear-view backup camera, navigation and heated and cooled steering wheel and front seats.
One of the things we would have liked to have seen from the Escalade is some improved fuel economy. We averaged 13.5 miles per gallon in both highway and city driving over a one week period. That in itself isn’t too bad for a 400+ horsepower, full-size SUV. Although we give kudos to GM for thinking of putting in a six-speed automatic transmission which definitely contributes to the fuel economy of the Escalade, we wonder if any more can be done to squeeze out a little more.
Overall we really enjoyed the 2007 Escalade. Even without 22-inch wheels and all sorts of chrome and “bling” all over it, this Cadillac is worth all of its $62,615 price tag as tested. Considering the base price of the Escalade is $56,405 you still get all of the standard power equipment which is optional, or not available on the Tahoe or Yukon.
 The interior is what you would expect from a Cadillac…it’s roomy, comfortable and doesn’t feel “cheap.” Many power options such as side mirrors, seats, rear hatch and more come standard on the Escalade. |  Various audio options are available, including a Bose 5.1 Surround Sound stereo system. The backup rearview camera and Navigation system are optional. |  With improved styling, the 2007 Cadillac is more sleek and aerodynamic. We liked its overall appearance, including the 18-inch aluminum wheels which can come chromed as an option |
