Cadillac Escalade-V: A Refreshingly Authentic Take on the Performance Luxury SUV in 2025
Having spent over a decade immersed in the automotive world, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution – and sometimes, the devolution – of the performance SUV segment. We’ve seen manufacturers chasing lap times at the expense of everyday comfort and practicality. It’s a trend that often leaves you wondering, “Who exactly is this for?” But then comes along something like the Cadillac Escalade-V, a vehicle that understands its identity perfectly.
This isn’t some European-wannabe trying to carve canyon roads like a sports car. The Escalade-V proudly embraces its American roots, offering a potent blend of raw power and unadulterated luxury. It’s a refreshing antidote to the stiff-riding, track-focused SUVs flooding the market.
A Modern Muscle Car in SUV Form
Think of the Cadillac Escalade-V as a modern-day muscle car, but instead of a sleek coupe, it’s a full-size SUV. Like the legendary Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG that arguably ignited this segment, the Escalade-V takes a familiar formula: a body-on-frame SUV, a luxurious interior, and then, a massive engine shoehorned under the hood. In this case, it’s a supercharged 6.2L V8 engine producing a staggering 682 horsepower, making it the most powerful full-size SUV currently on the market.
That’s where the heart of the Cadillac Escalade V lives. The Cadillac Escalade-V, for all its technological advancements, it’s the raw power that commands your attention. It’s the guttural roar of the engine at startup, the feeling of being pressed into the plush leather seats as you accelerate, and the sheer audacity of a vehicle this size moving with such ferocity. It borrows the engine from the CT5-V Blackwing, but tweaked to deliver a monstrous 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. This beast of an engine laughs in the face of physics, propelling the Escalade-V, weighing in at over 6,200 pounds, from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds.
The changes made to transform a standard Escalade into the Escalade-V are surprisingly focused. Beyond the obvious supercharger, you get beefier six-piston Brembo brakes for stopping power, a quad-tipped exhaust system for that signature V-Series growl, stiffer rear air springs for improved handling (though still prioritizing comfort), and unique 22-inch wheels. The rest of the magic happens through careful software calibration of the 10-speed automatic transmission, the air suspension with Magnetic Ride Control, and the standard all-wheel-drive system.
Luxury Reigns Supreme
While other manufacturers are obsessed with chasing Nürburgring lap times, Cadillac smartly understands that most luxury SUV buyers prioritize comfort and everyday usability. The Cadillac Escalade-V delivers performance without sacrificing the very qualities that make an Escalade great in the first place. It’s a luxurious SUV first and a performance machine second.
Despite having the heart of a sports car, the Escalade-V never forgets its primary mission: to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience. The plush seats, the well-damped air suspension, and the overall laid-back demeanor create a surprisingly pleasant driving experience, even in the midst of chaotic city traffic.
This is a vehicle that’s equally at home cruising down the highway as it is blasting between stoplights. The suspension offers two distinct profiles: “Tour” for maximum comfort and “Sport” for a slightly firmer ride. However, even in Sport mode, the ride remains compliant and comfortable, a testament to Cadillac’s commitment to luxury.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside the Escalade-V is like entering a private jet. The interior builds upon the already impressive Escalade Platinum, adding sporty touches like unique trim and badging. My personal favorite is the Auburn and Black finish, which complements the exterior perfectly.
The first and second-row seats are incredibly comfortable, even on long journeys. And surprisingly, the third-row seats are actually habitable, a rarity in many SUVs. The fit and finish are significantly improved compared to previous generations of the Escalade, creating a sense of genuine luxury.
The Cadillac Escalade-V also excels at keeping outside noise at bay, creating a serene and relaxing cabin. However, some of the switchgear could feel more premium, especially considering the price tag.
The centerpiece of the interior is the curved OLED display, which consists of three overlapping screens: a 16.9-inch infotainment screen, a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 7.2-inch control panel. The displays are bright, crisp, and intuitive to use, giving the cabin a modern and high-tech feel.
But the true strength of the Escalade-V’s cabin lies in its sheer size. With 72.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, it dwarfs competitors like the Range Rover. Opt for the extended-length ESV version, and that number jumps to a cavernous 94.1 cubic feet.
Subtle Exterior Enhancements
The exterior of the Cadillac Escalade-V receives subtle but effective visual updates. The front fascia features a black mesh grille, a larger lower air intake, and subtle lip spoilers. At the rear, a unique bumper with quad exhaust tips sets it apart from lesser Escalades.
The overall design isn’t overly aggressive, which is a good thing. The Escalade-V doesn’t scream “performance SUV” at the top of its lungs. Instead, it exudes a quiet confidence, hinting at its capabilities without being ostentatious. To the untrained eye, it might just look like a regular Escalade, and that’s perfectly fine.
The Competition and the Value Proposition
The 2025 Cadillac Escalade-V starts at around $155,000, positioning it against rivals like the BMW X5 M Competition and the Audi RS Q8. However, it’s worth noting that these competitors are significantly smaller. For a bit more money, you could consider the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 or the Alpina XB7, which offer similar size and a more luxurious interior. However, neither of those can match the raw, untamed power of the Escalade-V’s supercharged engine.
The Cadillac Escalade-V occupies a unique space in the market. It’s a performance SUV that prioritizes comfort and luxury without sacrificing power and excitement. It’s not the fastest or the most agile, but it offers a unique blend of attributes that appeals to a specific type of buyer. If you want a high performance vehicle with lots of passenger space, this is it.
A Final Word
The Cadillac Escalade-V is a testament to the fact that performance SUVs don’t have to be uncomfortable and impractical. It’s a vehicle that embraces its American roots, offering a potent combination of raw power, luxurious comfort, and undeniable presence.
It’s a luxury SUV that knows exactly what it is and isn’t, and that’s precisely what makes it so appealing. Its competitors want to dominate on the track, the Escalade V simply wants to dominate on the streets. It’s a celebration of American automotive excess in the best possible way. So, if you’re in the market for a high-performance luxury SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort or practicality, the Cadillac Escalade-V should definitely be on your list.
Ready to experience the Escalade-V for yourself? Visit your local Cadillac dealer in Los Angeles, CA for a test drive and discover the perfect blend of luxury and performance. Don’t just take my word for it—feel the power firsthand.