For Release: Tuesday, April 1, 2014, 12:01 a.m. EDT
Craftsmanship Defines All-New 2015 Cadillac Escalade
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Precisely crafted interior with more technology
Emotional design evolution complemented by quieter cabin, smoother
performance and more efficient powertrain
Higher levels of luxury, with sophisticated new technology for safety
and connectivity
DETROIT – From its introduction in 1999, the Cadillac Escalade quickly
became the standard among luxury SUVs with a formula of bold design,
powerful capability and luxurious accommodations. The all-new 2015
Escalade takes design and technical elements from Cadillac’s product
expansion to elevate the brand’s signature SUV.
The fourth-generation Escalade has a new exterior design yet is instantly
recognizable. Inside, cut-and-sewn materials and wood trim, chosen for
elegance and authenticity, combine with the latest technology to convey an
exceptional level of luxury.
“Cadillac's ongoing growth provides the ideal stage for the all-new Escalade
to take a major step forward,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, chief marketing officer,
Global Cadillac. “Escalade has always had a bold character, differentiating
itself from other luxury SUVs. Now, Escalade adds more sophistication, with
advanced technology and hand-tailored craftsmanship.”
The product line includes the standard Escalade and the extended-length ESV
edition, with offers a 14-inch-longer (355 mm) wheelbase and approximately
20 inches (508 mm) more in overall length, maximizing space for third-row
passengers and nearly double the cargo space behind the third-row seat.
Luxury and Premium collections are also available, offering higher levels of
content and technology. All models are offered with 2WD and 4WD
drivetrains as well as a new 6.2L V-8 engine that is more powerful and more
efficient than previous models.
In fact, the new V-8 is powerful enough to enable 0 to 60 mph performance
in less than 6 seconds – 5.96 seconds for Escalade 4WD and 5.98 seconds for
Escalade ESV 2WD.
The new 6.2L engine also delivers an EPA-estimated 21 mpg on the highway
(Escalade 2WD/4WD and Escalade ESV 2WD). That’s about 17 percent
greater efficiency on the highway than previous models, and also about 17
percent greater efficiency than Mercedes-Benz GL550 (18 mpg) and nearly
24 percent greater than Lexus LX 570 (17 mpg).
Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension
system, is standard, delivering precisely controlled driving performance. At
its core, Escalade is an SUV with full-size truck capabilities, enabling a
trailering rating of 8,300 pounds on the standard model and 8,100 pounds on
Escalade ESV. That’s more than Mercedes-Benz GL550 (7,800 pounds),
Lexus LX 570 (7,000 pounds) and Land Rover Range Rover (7,716 pounds).
Cadillac design
Escalade’s new design provides a signature look of quality, elegance and
capability. The styling cues combine sculpted surfaces and high technology
embellishments to give Escalade a unique and standout appearance.
“At a glance, it is undeniably and unmistakably a Cadillac Escalade,” said Bob
Boniface, Cadillac exterior design director. “It is powerful in size and
presence with integrated technologies that push its design to the leading
edge.”
A highly detailed Galvano chrome grille that has an almost brushed
appearance enhances dynamic front styling cues. Full light-emitting diode –
LED – lighting in the front and rear creates unique, razor-like vertical light
signatures. LEDs provide even, steady and very bright illumination while
delivering longer life and using significantly less energy than conventional
lighting.
The headlamps incorporate the industry’s first Total Internal Reflection LED
high-beam function, which consists of four vertically stacked crystal lenses
and LEDs. The low beam consists of five crystal lenses and LEDs that create
the light pattern. The Cadillac script is branded in the headlamp bezel. Tall,
thin vertical LED taillamps reach to the top of the Escalade and feature the
brand’s wreath-and-crest insignia, which illuminates in the dark.
New inlaid doors fit into the body side openings instead of over the top of the
body, significantly improving the quietness of the interior and contributing to
improved aerodynamics – an attribute that helps Escalade slip through the
air on the highway with less drag for greater efficiency. A lightweight
aluminum hood and aluminum liftgate panels reduce overall mass.
Additional exterior features include:
 Signature LED lighting extending full-height from the fascia to the
roof. The twin, light-blade taillamps recall Cadillac’s design heritage
 Chrome-accented side assist steps are standard, with powerretractable assist steps with light-pipe technology available on the
Premium Collection
 Illuminated door handles with the Premium Collection
 Standard heated, power-adjustable and power-folding outside mirrors
 Standard hands-free, power-programmable liftgate
 A standard rear spoiler on the liftgate that houses a rear window wiper
that is hidden when not in use
 Capless fueling.
Twenty-inch dual seven-spoke chrome aluminum wheels are standard and
22-inch aluminum wheels are available.
Crafted interior
Craftsmanship defines the 2015 Escalade’s passenger space, which is
designed to be one of the industry’s most luxurious cabins with seamless
technology integration for today’s connected luxury customers. Like the
exterior, there’s harmony with Cadillac’s other vehicles in the cabin’s
appearance, amenities and controls.
“An exceptional level of craftsmanship is found in the 2015 Escalade, and it
all centers on the premium, layered materials and extensive use of cut-andsew live stitching – the way fine furniture is produced,” said Eric Clough,
director of design, Cadillac Interiors. “We designed Escalade with what we
call the beauty of contrast – a distinctive combination of bold, SUV character,
but also the refinement of the Cadillac form vocabulary and technology.”
Real wood combined with premium cut-and-sewn materials and sueded
accents, along with ambient lighting, were designed to add elegance to the
interior design. Tight tolerances of the instrument panel and door panels,
precision controls and triple-sealed doors were engineered and designed to
reinforce a feeling of quality.
The seats were designed to be more comfortable and sculpted in appearance
with a reclining second row. The design incorporates dual-firmness foam that
ensures long-trip comfort and helps retain appearance over time.
Additional interior features include:
 Standard keyless entry and push-button start
 Standard electric telescoping/tilting steering column
 Standard heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood accents
 Concealed center-stack storage with motorized door
 Standard tri-zone climate control
 New fold-flat second- and third-row seats with standard power-folding
third row
 Standard heated and cooled seats in front and second-row bucket
seats with standard heat
 Three interior color choices: Jet Black, Shale/Cocoa and Kona/Jet
Black.
Escalade is also a quieter environment, thanks to a stronger body structure,
enhanced use of noise-attenuating materials and processes, including triplesealed doors and acoustic-laminate glass and Bose® Active Noise Cancelation
technology. Even the exterior mirrors were carefully shaped in the wind
tunnel to reduce wind noise.
Infotainment and connectivity
Technology is integral to the Escalade’s driving experience. New and
enhanced features help make what already was one of the industry’s mostconnected vehicles more intuitive.
CUE – Cadillac User Experience – is standard. It is an advanced system for
connectivity and control, featuring state-of-the-art voice recognition with
touch controls common with the world’s most popular tablets and mobile
devices. The eight-inch center screen uses capacitive touch technology and
gesture recognition, enabling tapping and swiping common to smartphones
and tablets.
The system also uses proximity sensors to activate common options and
controls as the user’s hand approaches. An expanded “favorites” section
offers quick access to phone contacts, navigation destinations – even digital
music – in the same one-touch form common to traditional radio presets.
The instrument cluster features a reconfigurable, high-resolution 12.3-inch
digital driver information center display paired with Cadillac’s CUE
infotainment system, with data also shown on an available, full-color head-up
display on Luxury and Premium Collections. Along with vehicle systems
information, the information center provides details on the audio, Bluetooth
phone and navigation systems, adjustable via steering wheel controls.
Enhanced connectivity includes a new Text-to-Voice feature for smartphone
users with Bluetooth profile (M.A.P.), which reads incoming texts through the
vehicle’s speakers, and Siri Eyes Free for iPhone iOS 6 and iOS 7 users to
enhance connectivity and convenience. Each enables voice-controlled
connectivity to help keep phones in pockets and hands on the wheel.
Additionally, OnStar’s new 4G LTE connection and available Wi-Fi hotspot
makes Escalade a mobile hub, providing easier access to apps and services
that require a high-speed data connection. The vehicle employs an “always
on” wireless connection, which does not reliant on a brought-in mobile
device. The OnStar 4G LTE connection arrives later in the model year.
Bose® Centerpoint® audio system
The 2015 Escalade features a new Bose Centerpoint® surround sound system
that is the most advanced ever in a Cadillac. Customized exclusively for the
Escalade, it features new technologies that help heighten the sophisticated
in-vehicle experience.
Proprietary technologies and 16 strategically placed speakers create a
concert-like experience throughout the cabin. Five custom-tuned speakers
placed across the instrument panel and front doors, combined with Bose
Advanced Staging Technology, help reproduce expansive sound with
exceptional precision and clarity.
Further enhancing the experience is Bose Centerpoint 2.0 signal processing
technology, which enables a surround sound experience across all rows and
SurroundStage® signal processing circuitry, which compensates for off-center
vehicle seating to create 360-degree sound for every occupant.
An available Blu-Ray DVD rear entertainment system is tied into the audio
system and includes a nine-inch, roof-mounted screen on Escalade and two
nine-inch screens on Escalade ESV. The overhead system also includes builtin remote storage, USB, SD car and RCA ports.
Performance and driving experience
Escalade performance advances with an all-new, more powerful and more
efficient 6.2L V-8 engine rated at an SAE-certified 420 horsepower (313 kW)
and 460 lb-ft of torque (623 Nm) – a nearly 5-percent increase in
horsepower and 10 percent more torque. The greater torque delivers an
enhanced feeling of power on demand and greater confidence when
trailering.
The new 6.2L features state-of-the-art technologies, including direct
injection, Active Fuel Management – also known as cylinder deactivation –
continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system,
designed to make the most of power, torque and efficiency across the rpm
band. More precisely controlled combustion enables Escalade to run with a
higher compression ratio, delivering greater power and greater efficiency.
The engine is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic
transmission with enhanced TapShift control.
Escalade’s performance is channeled to a more sophisticated chassis and
suspension system, engineered for a greater feeling of solidity and a quieter,
smoother ride. A fully boxed frame – composed of more than 75 percent
high-strength steel – is the foundation for its ride quality.
Chassis and suspension highlights include:
 A wider rear track that contributes to a more planted stance
 Shear-style body mounts, which reduce body shake and enhance the
feeling of structural stiffness and improve damping performance when
compared with previous compression mounts
 Addition of a cross-axis ball joint on the frame-side of the rear
suspension lateral link that enhances steering precision
 Standard third-generation Magnetic Ride Control with two selectable
modes. A new, dual-electric-coil design enabled engineers to tune with
more resolution to handle quickly changing road conditions
 A new, electric variable-assist power steering system enhances fuel
economy and tailors steering assist to vehicle speed
 New four-wheel-disc brake system with Duralife™ brake rotors offer up
to double the service life
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Revisions that improve pedal feel for more-confident braking
performance
New tires designed to enhance efficiency, ride quality, handling and
stopping performance
Standard automatic locking rear differential that provides greater
traction when needed and greater driving comfort when not in use.
A new four-wheel-drive system enables the driver to select an Auto mode for
set-it-and-forget-it automatic activation when conditions call for extra
traction assist. A separate 4 HI mode offers the most capability for more
challenging conditions.
Safety and security
Escalade’s new technologies include safety features to help protect occupants
before, during and after a collision, such as Front and Rear Automatic
Braking, which relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors
to help the driver avoid low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that
extend to complete braking, if necessary.
Also new is the segment’s only front-seat center air bag, designed to inflate
between the driver and front-seat passenger for added protection in far-side
impact crashes when the affected occupant is on the non-struck side of the
vehicle.
A Driver Awareness package includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure
Warning System, and the patented Safety Alert Seat, which pulses the left,
right or both seat cushion bolsters to alert the driver of a dangerous
situation. A Driver Assist package adds Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise
Control, Front and Rear Automatic Braking, Automatic Collision Preparation
and Automatic Safety Belt Tightening.
Additionally, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change
Alert are standard on Luxury and Premium models.
The new Escalade features greater security features to thwart theft attempts,
including glass breakage sensors, motion detectors and a self-leveling
inclination sensor that sounds an alarm if a thief attempts to steal wheels or
tires, or tow or lift the vehicle onto a flatbed truck.
The advanced theft protection package also includes door shields in the
driver’s door, which help block access to those using a “slim jim”-type
unlocking device. Additional anti-theft features include enhanced door
security, laminated windshield glass and a steering column lock.
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. Today Cadillac is growing
globally, driven by an expanding product portfolio featuring dramatic design and
technology. More information on Cadillac appears at www.cadillac.com. Cadillac's
media website with information, images and video can be found at
media.cadillac.com
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2015 CADILLAC ESCALADE SPECIFICATIONS
Overview
Models:
Body style / driveline:
Construction:
EPA vehicle class:
Manufacturing location:
Key competitors:
Cadillac Escalade / Escalade ESV
4-door sport utility vehicle, front-engine, 2- or 4-wheel drive
body on frame
full-size sport utility vehicle
Arlington, Texas
Mercedes-Benz GL, Land Rover Range Rover, Infiniti QX80, Lexus LX
570 and Lincoln Navigator
Engine
Type:
Displacement (cu in / cc):
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
Block material:
Cylinder head material:
Valvetrain:
Ignition system:
Fuel delivery:
Compression ratio:
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):
Recommended fuel:
Maximum engine speed (rpm):
Emissions controls:
Estimated fuel economy (city /
hwy):
EcoTec3 6.2L V-8 (L86)
6.2L V-8
376 / 6162
4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
overhead valve, two valves per cylinder, variable valve timing
coil near plug, platinum-tipped spark plugs, low-resistance spark plug
wires
direct fuel injection with Active Fuel Management
11.5:1
420 / 313 @ 5600 (SAE certified)
460 / 623 @ 4100 (SAE certified)
premium recommended but not required
6000
close-coupled catalytic converter, Quick Sync 58X ignition, returnless
fuel rail, fast-response O² sensor
15 / 21 (Escalade 2WD)
14 / 21 (Escalade 4WD)
15 / 21 (Escalade ESV 2WD)
14 / 20 (Escalade ESV 4WD)
Transmission
Hydra-Matic 6L80, six-speed automatic
Gear ratios (:1):
First:
Second:
Third:
Fourth:
Fifth:
Sixth:
Reverse:
Final drive ratio:
4.03
2.36
1.53
1.15
0.85
0.67
3.06
3.42
Chassis / Suspension
Front:
Rear:
Traction assist:
Steering type:
Steering ratio:
Steering wheel turns, lock-tolock:
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft /
m):
independent coil-over-shock; 36mm hollow stabilizer bar; Magnetic Ride
Control
solid axle with five-link location and coil springs; 28mm hollow stabilizer
bar; Magnetic Ride Control
all-speed traction control
electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion
17.3
3.4
39 / 11.9 (Escalade)
43 / 13.1 (Escalade ESV)
Brakes
Type:
Rotor diameter x thickness (in /
mm):
power-assisted, four-wheel disc, four-wheel ABS, with Duralife™ rotors;
vented front and rear rotors
front: 13 x 1.2 / 330 x 30
rear: 13.6 x 0.8 / 345 x 20
Wheels / Tires
Wheels:
Tires:
20 x 9.0-in. aluminum
22 x 9.0-in. aluminum
P275/55R20 all-season
P285/45R22 all-season
Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase (in / mm):
Overall length (in / mm):
Overall width (in / mm):
Overall height (in / mm):
Track (in / mm):
Minimum ground clearance (in /
mm):
Step-in height (in / mm):
Ground to top of load floor (in /
mm):
Approach angle (deg):
Departure angle (deg):
Curb weight (lb / kg):
Weight distribution (% front /
rear):
Escalade
116 / 2946
203.9 / 5179
80.5 / 2044
74.4 / 1889
front: 68.7 / 1745
rear: 68.7 / 1744
2WD: 8 / 205
4WD: 8 / 205
2WD: 22 / 559
4WD: 22 / 559
2WD: 32.1 / 815
4WD: 32.1 / 815
2WD: 15.7
4WD: 15.7
2WD: 23.1
4WD: 23.1
5594 / 2537 (2WD w/ 20-in.
wheels)
5840 / 2649 (4WD w/ 20-in.
wheels)
52 / 48
Escalade ESV
130 / 3302
224.3 / 5697
80.5 / 2045
74 / 1880
front: 68.7 / 1745
rear: 68.7 / 1744
2WD: 8 / 205
4WD: 8 / 205
2WD: 22 / 559
4WD: 22 / 559
2WD: 31.6 / 802
4WD: 31.6 / 802
2WD: 15.9
4WD: 15.9
2WD: 19.5
4WD: 19.5
5795 / 2628 (2WD w/ 20-in.
wheels)
6040 / 2739 (4WD w/ 20-in.
wheels)
51 / 49
Interior
Escalade
Seating capacity
Headroom
First row (in / mm):
Second row (in / mm):
Third row (in / mm):
Legroom
First row (in / mm):
Second row (in / mm):
Third row (in / mm):
Shoulder room
First row (in / mm):
Second row (in / mm):
Third row (in / mm):
Hip room
First row (in / mm):
Second row (in / mm):
Third row (in / mm):
Cargo volume
Escalade ESV
7 or 8
7 or 8
42.8 / 1087 (without sunroof)
39.7 / 1008 (with sunroof)
38.7 / 983
38.1 / 968
42.8 / 1087 (without sunroof)
39.7 / 1008 (with sunroof)
39.1 / 993
38.5 / 978
45.3 / 1151
39.0 / 991
24.8 / 630
45.3 / 1150
39.7 / 1008
34.5 / 876
64.9 / 1648
64.4 / 1636
62.6 / 1590
64.9 / 1648
64.4 / 1636
62.6 / 1590
60.9 / 1547
60.2 / 1529
49.3 / 1252
60.9 / 1547
60.2 / 1529
49.3 / 1252
Behind 1st row, 2nd row
folded no third row (cu ft / L):
Behind 2nd row no third row
(cu ft / L):
Behind 3rd row (cu ft / L):
94.2 / 2667 (behind seat with
second, third rows folded)
51.6 / 1461 (behind seat with third
row folded)
15.2 / 430 (behind seat)
120.9 / 3424 (behind seats with
second, third rows folded)
76.7 / 2172 (behind seat with third
row folded)
39.3 / 1113 (behind seat)
Escalade
120.8 / 3420
2WD: 7100 / 3220
4WD: 7300 / 3310
1506 / 683 (2WD)
1460 / 662(4WD)
8300 / 3764 (2WD)
8100 / 3674 (4WD)
26 / 98.4
8.5 / 8.0
16.7 / 15.8
Escalade ESV
122.4 / 3466
2WD: 7300 / 3311
4WD: 7500 / 3402
1505 / 682 (2WD)
1460 / 662 (4WD)
8100 / 3674 (2WD)
7900 / 3583 (4WD)
31 / 117
8.5 / 8.0
16.7 / 15.8
Capacities
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L):
GVWR: (lb / kg):
Payload maximum (lb / kg):
Trailer towing maximum (lb /
kg):
Fuel tank (gal / L):
Engine oil (qt / L):
Cooling system (qt / L):
Note: Information shown is current at time of publication. Visit http://media.gm.com for updates.