A Comprehensive History of the Cadillac Escalade
One of the most iconic vehicles in the Cadillac lineup is the Cadillac Escalade. While today it presents itself as a large, three-row SUV with luxurious amenities, the Cadillac Escalade once started as a much different vehicle. To help you get a better understanding of the origins of the Cadillac Escalade, the Sapaugh Cadillac team has provided this short history.
Generation One: 1999
The very first Cadillac Escalade was launched in 1999 as a badge-swapped GMC Yukon Denali. It was shortly discontinued in 2000, making this vintage vehicle quite hard to find nowadays. This vehicle featured a 5.7-liter Vortec V8 engine as the only powertrain option, producing a modest 255 horsepower alongside 310 lb-ft of torque with a four-speed transmission.
Generation Two: 2002
The Cadillac Escalade began to create its image in 2002. This vehicle opted for a more angular, defined appearance that stood out among a sea of standard SUVs. The 2002 Cadillac Escalade featured a 6.0-liter Vortec V8 engine that pumped out a massive 345 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
Generation Three: 2007
The third-generation Cadillac Escalade lasted from 2007 to 2014. This vehicle leaned even more into the luxurious appearance with chrome accents, leather throughout the interior, and several metallic paint options. The engine was improved once again with a larger 403 horsepower along with 417 lb-ft of torque.
Generation Four: 2015
In 2015, the Cadillac Escalade took a step back and focused on refinement. Technology was a major focus for this generation, as well as improving the interior materials. A 6.2-liter V8 came standard with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
Generation Five: 2021
Today, the Cadillac Escalade perfectly embodies its moniker with a high-tech cabin and ultra-luxurious amenities. In this new Cadillac vehicle, you’ll find a massive 38-inch OLED display that incorporates three screens under a single pane of glass. You’ll also have the option between a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine or a highly efficiency diesel inline-six-cylinder engine.
Test-Drive the 2025 Cadillac Escalade in Herculaneum, MO, Today
If you want to see the newest Cadillac Escalade in person, contact our Herculaneum, MO, Cadillac dealership. Once you’ve decided on your ideal trim level, we can assist you further at our Cadillac finance center. Stop by today or give us a call to learn more!
