Fans of the most luxurious, flagship model by Cadillac, have no reason to be worried about its future. The XT lineup is expanding. But, the GM will keep its best-selling and the longest-serving premium SUV. What’s more, the new generation is on the way. It will arrive with the 2021 Cadillac Escalade.
General Motors is installing independent rear suspension for all its big rigs. So far, we can see Chevy Tahoe and Suburban test mules. But, be sure that GMC Yukon and 2021 Cadillac Escalade are also getting the same configuration. This is the major change, and all SUVs will head into the new generation.
Escalade is one of the most thrilling models in the premium segment. Besides the standard model, you will find the ESV – extended version with 130-in long wheelbase. Furthermore, enthusiasts are waiting for the comeback of the EXT truck. This is not likely to happen, but we won’t write off the chances now when the model is using the new setup.
Finally, the rumors about the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Electric came out of nowhere. The company has never announced this version, but some sources claiming this is happening. Also, we can hear news about the hybrid drivetrain as well.
2021 Cadillac Escalade Redesign
Cosmetic updates on the new SUV will make the big rig more aggressive and attractive. Well, we can’t say that 200 inches long vehicle is not eye-catching already. Its size can’t hide it from spy photographers that delivered first images. But, the heavy camo is hiding most of its new features, so we will have to wait for the official update to find out more.
Meanwhile, we know the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is entering the new generation by using the IRS system. This is a change that will cause other modifications. Update of the front fascia, side panels, overall shape… the SUV might be longer as well. All these are options for the new Escalade.
New Versions – EXT Truck, CTS V Drivetrain, Electric
It is hard to tell which of these rumors is more or less likely to happen. The company is quiet, but all options are opened. Let’s start with the model we already saw. The 2021 Cadillac Escalade EXT would be the premium truck. However, we doubt this is happening. General Motors already offers GMC Sierra 1500 Denali, but its sales are not taking the big share in the market.
For a while, we can hear about the 2021 Cadillac Escalade CTS V or just Escalade V version. This is the SUV powered by an engine from CTS V sedan. A 6.2-liter V8 drivetrain gets a special tuning to deliver 650 hp and 640 lb-ft of torque. This one seems more probable than the luxury truck.
The 2021 Escalade Electric concept is the least likely. But it has more chances to appear in 2022 or 2023 than the other two versions. The entire industry is moving toward greener sources of power. On the other hand, much smaller vehicles are not electrified yet. So, the development will need time. But the Escalade EV is definitely happening one day.
Source: MotorAuthority
2021 Cadillac Escalade Specs, Towing Capacity
A 6.2-liter V8 engine is the base powertrain for the full-size premium SUV. The Escalade delivers 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The new 10-speed automatic transmission sends power to two wheels, while the AWD is an optional system. The SUV is massive, but the fuel economy is superb. Not too many other SUVs with V8 engines can achieve 18 mpg combined.
The towing capacity of the new Escalade will depend on configuration. However, the new IRS system is going to make it more capable to haul big loads. Currently, the SUV can tow up to 8,400 pounds, but the independent rear suspension is going to boost this output probably to 9,000 pounds. All-wheel drive will reduce this number, as well as the ESV version.
Interior, Seating Capacity, Cargo Space
The new 2021 Cadillac Escalade is also going to refresh the interior. There are no details available yet, but rumors point that more space could be inside the cockpit. Currently, the SUV offers 121 cubic feet of cargo space (ESV model, all seats folded). The standard version comes with 15/51/94 cubic feet.
Designers will revisit the seating layout. The new Escalade remains a seven-seater SUV by default. However, if you need an extra spot, then the optional packages offer such an option.
When Will 2021 Cadillac Escalade Be Available?
We will follow the news in GM’s full-size segment. First, Chevy Tahoe and Suburban are coming. Then, the rest of the lineup will be ready for the debut. Since test mules are already out, the SUVs could arrive early next year, and the 2021 Cadillac Escalade will come by the end of 2020.
After the redesign, the SUV will get the new price. Expect it to cost around $80,000 and the ESV gets up to $84,000. Special editions, both Electric or CTS V are taking the six-digit price.
