The Cadillac Escalade V, introduced for the 2022 model year, represents the highest-performance iteration of the fifth-generation Escalade (2021–present). Positioned as the flagship SUV within Cadillac’s lineup, the Escalade V directly addresses the growing demand for high-performance luxury vehicles. It distinguishes itself through a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering substantial power and torque, coupled with a full-time all-wheel-drive system. Production continued through the 2024 model year, solidifying its place as a halo vehicle for the brand. The Escalade V is built on the GM T1XX truck platform, shared with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, and the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Cadillac |
| Model | Escalade |
| Generation | Escalade V |
| Type (Engine) | V 6.2 Supercharged V8 (682 Hp) AWD Hydra-Matic |
| Start of production | 2022 year |
| End of production | 2024 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 21.4 l/100 km (11 US mpg, 13.2 UK mpg, 4.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 241.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 313.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 682 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 885 Nm @ 3600 rpm (652.74 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LT4 |
| Engine displacement | 6162 cm3 (376.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.25 mm (4.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.6 l (15.43 US qt | 12.85 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2820 kg (6217.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3423 kg (7546.42 lbs.) |
| Max load | 603 kg (1329.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 722 l (25.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3426 l (120.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 91 l (24.04 US gal | 20.02 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 5382 mm (211.89 in.) |
| Width | 2059 mm (81.06 in.) |
| Height | 1948 mm (76.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3071 mm (120.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1737 mm (68.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.1 m (39.7 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 275/50 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Escalade V is the 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V8 engine. This engine, also found in the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Camaro ZL1, is a robust all-aluminum block construction featuring direct injection and variable valve timing (VVT). The supercharger, a 1.7-liter unit, provides significant boost, contributing to the engine’s impressive 682 horsepower and 885 lb-ft of torque. The Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission is specifically calibrated for the Escalade V to handle the increased power output and deliver smooth, responsive shifts. The transmission features close gear ratios optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising. The engine utilizes an iron block for increased durability, a necessity given the increased stress from the supercharger.
Driving Characteristics
The Escalade V delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to the standard Escalade models. The substantial power and torque result in brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.4 seconds. While the Escalade’s size and weight are still apparent, the V model feels significantly more agile and responsive. The 10-speed transmission effectively manages the power, providing quick downshifts for overtaking and maintaining optimal engine speed during spirited driving. Compared to the 6.2L naturally aspirated engine found in other Escalade trims, the V offers a dramatically increased powerband and a more engaging driving experience. The air suspension, standard on the V, helps to mitigate body roll and provide a comfortable ride, even with the larger wheels and performance tires.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Escalade V is essentially a fully-equipped model, with a comprehensive list of standard features. These include premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, a 16.2-inch OLED infotainment screen, a head-up display, and a premium AKG audio system. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras typically included unique exterior styling elements, such as V-specific badging and dark-finished wheels. Interior trim options were limited, focusing on a sporty and luxurious aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Escalade V benefits from chassis enhancements to complement the increased power. These include upgraded brakes with larger rotors and calipers for improved stopping power. The standard air suspension provides adjustable ride height and damping control. Magnetic Ride Control, a GM technology that uses magnetically controlled dampers, is also standard, further enhancing ride quality and handling. The Escalade V utilizes ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing consistent braking performance even under demanding conditions. The rear suspension features a multi-link design with a stabilizer bar to minimize body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Escalade V was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its impressive performance and luxurious interior. However, its fuel economy was a common point of criticism, as expected for a vehicle of this size and power. Compared to the standard Escalade models, the V offers a significant performance upgrade but comes at a substantial price premium. Against competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and the BMW X5 M, the Escalade V offered a unique combination of American luxury and brute force. Its spacious interior and third-row seating also set it apart from some of its rivals.
Legacy
The Escalade V represents a bold statement from Cadillac, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to performance and luxury. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the LT4 engine has a proven track record in other GM vehicles. On the used car market, the Escalade V is expected to hold its value well due to its limited production run and unique positioning within the Escalade lineup. The combination of its powerful engine, luxurious features, and spacious interior makes it a desirable vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a high-performance luxury SUV.
