This is one more testing prototype of Cadillac’s next-generation Escalade. More precisely, it’s a long-wheelbase variant of automaker’s flagship, which will be introduced in the first half of 2019 as the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV. We are not sure whether the manufacturer intends to make the redesigned Escalade ESV even bigger from its predecessor on not, but irrespective, the SUV will be a one really big body-on-frame vehicle for sure. The current model, for instance, measures exactly 224.3, and that’s, you have to agree, one really big “suit”.
New Platform, Lighter Body, and Independent Suspension
The long-wheelbase variant of the Escalade uses that extra space for an increased second and third row of seats, as well as for great storage which is currently limited to 120 cubic feet. The successor will probably get pretty much the same measures, yet notably lighter bones and increased efficiency. Thanks to General Motors’ amazing T1XX body-on-frame platform that swaps a pretty respectable amount of steel for some aluminum, the 2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV will cut off more than 300 pounds in total. In addition, the platform will increase the rigidity of the SUV and will come paired with some kind of independent rear suspension, which will improve both comfort and handling without any doubt, because the current model uses a live axle that’s out of date. Plus, thanks to the new suspension, the SUV will definitely get lower load floor that guarantees improved cargo capacity.
Styling Changes
Styling changes are still camouflaged, but even though, it’s quite clear in which direction goes the redesign. The 2020 Escalade ESV will come without today’s egg-crate grilles. In the place, the flagship is definitely getting CT6-inspired chrome grille and different, most probably delta-shaped LED headlights. Certain changes will happen around back of course, but it’s still unclear what’s cooking in the backyard. As far as we can figure out, the new taillights are vertical, so they will most probably mirror the set that’s currently available on the XT4. Below, the prototype hosts rectangular exhaust tips, which are also brand new. At sides, the prototype shows pretty much the same profile as the current model, but it’s fitted with 22-inch wheels wrapped in 275/50-size Bridgestone tires.
SuperCruise
Of course, the automaker will not skip the chance to load the next-generation Cadillac Escalade with the latest technologies. They will not skip the opportunity to introduce SuperCruise partial self-driving feature, while the cabin should feature more upscale materials and new infotainment and entertainment system.
New Engine Options For The Flagship SUV
Under the hood, the long-wheelbase version of the redesigned Escalade will come paired with several options. A naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 mill will definitely be among choices, as well as some kind of plug-in hybrid that will arrive sometime later. However, the most interesting engine will be the brand’s new 4.2-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 capable of delivering over 500 horsepower. Both, the rear- and four-wheel-drive setups will be in cards, but just one gearbox. No matter which engine you choose, it will come paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Arrival and Price
According to the latest reports, the 2020 Cadillac Escalade will make its official debut next spring at the 2019 New York Auto Show. The entry-level flagship SUV will become available next fall with a price tag at around $80K. The larger ESV will on the other hand cost over $100K.
