One of the smartest things Cadillac has ever done was become a contender in the sport utility vehicle market. When they emerged on the scene with the Escalade, they were welcomed with open arms. After all, there were few full-size luxury vehicles for consumers to choose from. Today, the competition is stiff, but Cadillac still manages to not get lost in the shuffle.
The Cadillac SRX saw a lot of significant updates for 2012, so there are not many changes to speak of for 2013. This is ... (full review continues below)
One of the smartest things Cadillac has ever done was become a contender in the sport utility vehicle market. When they emerged on the scene with the Escalade, they were welcomed with open arms. After all, there were few full-size luxury vehicles for consumers to choose from. Today, the competition is stiff, but Cadillac still manages to not get lost in the shuffle.
The Cadillac SRX saw a lot of significant updates for 2012, so there are not many changes to speak of for 2013. This is just fine because there are not too many complaints being heard either. The feature it does receive though is CUE, a new electronic interface that has a touchscreen system and is controlled primarily through voice commands.
The front and rear fascia have been subtly restyled, and an active noise-cancellation system has been added. Complaints of road and wind noise that were made against previous models will no longer be concerns. The SRX also receives the Safety Alert Seat, which can warn the vehicle of an impending situation by the way you wiggle in your seat. Don’t worry; the feature can be shut off, if you find it too invasive.
The 2013 SRX is powered by a 3.6-liter V6, which happens to be one of the market’s most preferred engines. It offers plenty of acceleration and towing power, and all-wheel drive is available, which most drivers will opt for.
This luxury compact crossover is available in Base, Luxury, Performance and Premium trims. Base is nicely equipped with gorgeous 18-inch alloy wheels, remote engine start, eight-speaker sound system and the CUE infotainment control system. Luxury adds a rear view camera, cross-traffic and blind spot alert, rear parking sensors a panoramic sunroof and leather. A sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch alloy wheels, Bose surround system and navigation are granted in the Performance model. As you would expect, Premium gives you everything you want and more, with heated rear seats, ventilated front seats and rear seat audio controls. Primary competition for the SRX includes the Volvo XC60, Acura RDX and BMW X3.
Of course, Cadillac’s more well-known SUV is its Escalade. Starting with an MSRP of $63,170 and increasing significantly with trims and options, this vehicle has come to define luxury. Its visual presence alone is hard to compete with. Escalade offers commanding power from its 6.2-liter V8 engine that screams out 403 horsepower, while accelerating the massive and quite heavy vehicle zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. From its monochromatic front grille to its chrome-tipped dual exhaust, the dramatically elevated exterior is sure to catch the eye of new buyers that may have never considered Cadillac before. Jeweled headlamps and dazzling 22-inch multi-spoke chromed aluminum wheels seal the deal.
From its detailed navigation to its available rear seat entertainment, Cadillac covers the wants and needs of every driver. Escalade is available in Base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum Edition trims with primary competitors being the Toyota Land Cruiser and Lincoln Navigation.
Those needing room for up to eight passengers will naturally flock to the Escalade ESV. Folding down the second row seat to offer access to the third row is done with the push of a button and power-retracted assist steps make the vehicle easy to get in and out of.
For 2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid has been made to be a positive leader in the automotive industry. Regenerative braking is able to convert kinetic energy created by the vehicle into electric energy that can be used by the motor. Plus, to achieve the best possible fuel economy, Active Fuel Management will deactivate half of the eight cylinders when they are not needed. Started at $73,850, this is an SUV pretty much in a class of its own.
Last in the lineup is the Escalade EXT, which is an SUV and pickup truck all in one. Who says you can’t have the convenience of both worlds? The EXT offers the perfect blend of versatility and luxury. Transform the vehicle from a two-passenger pickup to a five-passenger SUV via the Midgate® panel. The EXT is just another example of Cadillac’s pioneering effects in the automotive industry.