Lincoln is getting ready to introduce the all-new Navigator sometime next year. The luxurious full-size SUV will be very interesting without any doubt. After all, the carmaker already previewed the vehicle in the concept form, so we know it will be amazing. Still, while we are waiting the redesigned 2018 Lincoln Navigator to arrive, the biggest rival prepares the right answer. Yes, Cadillac is also making some changes on its own full-size SUV. However, in contrast to the Navigator that will be introduced in 2017, the 2019 Cadillac Escalade will hit the showrooms a year later.
The current Escalade came as totally redesigned in 2015, so we are sure that the carmaker won’t introduce the new generation model. Instead, the 2019 Escalade will receive pretty comprehensive mid-cycle refresh, which will bring some cosmetic changes inside and out, as well as certain improvements under the hood. Cadillac’s tech department will also make it technically advanced, especially in the topping trims, which may easily cost above $100,000.
Powertrain wise, the 2019 Cadillac Escalade will definitely get one more option. The large SUV will also keep the current 6.2-liter engine, which will be better for a start-stop system. This way the engine should become less thirsty. In addition, the carmaker will add a new twin-turbo, 4.2-liter V-8 engine that will deliver around 500 horsepower. The same unit will power the performance-oriented 2019 Escalade V, but instead of 500, the mill will produce at least 600 ponies. The vehicle will keep its eight-speed automatic gearbox, but they will also add an optional and all-new ten-speed auto transmission.
The refreshed styling will likely bring some revisions at the ends. In the front, the popular high-riding vehicle will sport larger LED headlights and a bit redesigned and lowered grille. The bumper might be more pronounced and will likely get bigger air intake. The profile won’t be changed at all, but there will be some other new details, like the new door handles and different alloys. In the rear, the SUV will get redesigned taillights, which should be widened.
GM is currently working on the next-generation infotainment system that will definitely find its way to the 2019 Cadillac Escalade. The SUV will feature a massive touchscreen in leather and genuine wood veneer, as well as one more, smaller that will be basically for the new instrument cluster. The carmaker will also try to boost the comfort with new seats, which will get both heating and cooling functions. The entertainment system (especially for the rear-seat passengers) will be enhanced by a number of websites like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu. Some rumors indicate that the refreshed 2019 Escalade could also get some kind of semi-autonomous technology, but this isn’t confirmed yet.
Stay tuned for updates.
The first go with a twin turbo for the Cadi? The Navigator will have the 2nd Gen of that engine, I am sure Ford has addressed a couple of the issued the 1st Gen had. Been a GM guy all my life, but that 3rd row in the ESV does not work for us. Might be going to the dark side in 2018 2019.