We were pretty sure that the new generation Cadillac Escalade will be introduced this year. We were sure, but we made the mistake. According to CadillacSociety, there’s no chance to see the redesigned model for another six to eight months. If so, then the successor is going to arrive next spring or summer wearing 2021 MY sticker. However, it’s not as important when exactly is going to become available the luxury full-size SUV as it’s important what’s going to be changed. As far as we could find, the automaker prepares big things for its flagships. Here’s what we know so far:
V8 Options
The company will add two new options under the hood. Yes, the all-new model will get a pair of extra choices, while the current 6.2-liter V8 option stays for sure. Truth to be told, the naturally aspirated mill that currently delivers 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of grunt will suffer some changes which will save some fuel and squeeze additional power. In addition, the option will be hooked to a 10-speed automatic transmission and that guarantee better efficiency of the engine.
Believe it or not, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade will feature one more V8 option. It’s the brand’s all-new and awesome 4.2-liter twin-turbo V8 unit with a natural killer instinct. If the engine gives its best shot, you can expect an impressive output of 550 horsepower and 620 pound-feet of torque. This one will come fitted with the same 10-speed ‘box. Of course, both units will be paired with standard front- and optional (and more expensive) four-wheel drive.
Plug-In Hybrid
There’s no word regarding the 2021 Escalade PHEV at the moment. However, the plug-in hybrid SUV could use pretty much the same powertrain as the CT6 sedan. The car comes fitted with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motors. They produce 335 horsepower in total, which is, you will agree, not enough for the Escalade. Meaning, the full-size SUV will probably exploit a bigger internal consumption option under the hood.
Platform
Like we announced earlier this year, the next generation Escalade will ride on a different platform. We are talking about a lightweight T1XX body-on-frame platform that will shed at least 300 pounds from the SUV. The redesigned model will replace its solid rear axle with a better one. According to our insider, the automaker will couple the new Escalade with an independent suspension which will provide better ride comfort and handling.
Exterior Changes
Basically, the successor will look rounder thanks to finer curves on the corners, but essentially, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is going to remain its iconic boxy design. The SUV will get plenty of new details to show, starting from a new and widened grille with small chrome inserts. The grille will be coupled with a pair of slimmer headlights and another pair of LED daytime running lamps. The third pair of light will be new fogs that will be reshaped as well. At the opposite side, the mighty machine will get a new bumper with redesigned exhaust pipes and new taillights which will be horizontal this time. We expect some chrome at sides of the SUV in the form of a strip. Speaking of the sides, this particular prototype comes fitted with 22-inch wheels. The size fits, but the design of the wheels will be totally different and all-new for sure.
Interior And Tech
The cabin of the SUV will hit an earthquake, so-to-say. The redesigned model will sport a completely new dashboard with a new, larger, better, and quicker infotainment touchscreen. Word on the street suggests that the SUV is going to get a completely digital instrument cluster and steering wheel, though some earlier reports suggested that there’s going to be a console-mounted shifter for the first time as well. Of course, the cabin will be spiced up with some exclusive materials, but we have not the details at the moment.
Price Range
In addition to the regular model, the company intends to build the long-wheelbase variant, so-called 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV. This one will definitely cost over $100K. On the other hand, the entry-level option will settle down at around $80K.