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2016 Cadillac Escalade

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$72,970

starting MSRP

Key specs

Base trim shown

SUV

Body style

17

Combined MPG

8

Seating capacity

Rear-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

(29 reviews)

The good:

  • Interior materials quality
  • High-tech safety features
  • Towing capacity
  • Cabin quietness

The bad:

  • Interior space, considering exterior bulk
  • Touch-sensitive controls
  • Sticker price

4 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2016 Cadillac Escalade trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best SUVs for 2024

Notable features

  • Apple CarPlay integration new for 2016
  • Body-on-frame full-size SUV
  • Regular- and long-wheelbase ESV versions
  • 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hot spot capability
  • 420-hp V-8 engine standard
  • Rear- or four-wheel drive

2016 Cadillac Escalade review: Our expert's take

What Is the 2016 Cadillac Escalade?

The 2016 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size SUV with seating for seven or eight depending on whether the second row has two or three seats. It competes with the Mercedes-Benz GLS 550, Land Rover Range Rover, Lincoln Navigator and the Infiniti QX80. Trim levels include the Standard, Luxury Collection, Premium Collection and Platinum. Each trim is offered with rear- or four-wheel drive. The Cadillac Escalade ESV is an extended version, but is covered separately.

What's New on the 2016 Cadillac Escalade?

For 2016, the standard Cadillac User Experience entertainment system features Apple CarPlay. Android Auto is expected later in the model year. As part of the Driver Awareness Package, lane-keeping assist is now available.

How Does the 2016 Cadillac Escalade Compare to Other Full-Size SUVs?

Most competitors at this price offer a more luxurious and refined experience inside and out, but the Escalade shines in terms of space and towing capacity. Recent updates have allowed the Escalade to pull far ahead of its former direct competitor, the Lincoln Navigator, now outperforming it in areas such as style, amenities and power.

What Features in the 2016 Cadillac Escalade Are Most Important?

The Escalade is equipped with a 420-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Significant standard features include 20-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, a power-folding third-row seat, hands-free power liftgate, adaptive suspension, OnStar 4G LTE and a Wi-Fi hot spot (with subscription), a 360-degree surround-view camera system and a side-impact airbag between the front seats. As required in all new cars, the Escalade also features front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system.

Significant available features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, Safety Alert Seat, adaptive cruise control, 22-inch wheels, a rear entertainment system and power-retractable side steps.

Should I Buy the 2016 Cadillac Escalade?

However, its high price tag and disappointing interior space versus its exterior bulk may cause some shoppers to look elsewhere.

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Consumer reviews

(29 reviews)
Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.6
  • Interior 4.7
  • Performance 4.4
  • Value 4.0
  • Exterior 4.7
  • Reliability 4.3
Write a review

Most recent consumer reviews

Escalade Man!

The interior is like a space ship! The interior leather is just the color I was looking for. It is so smooth riding and quiet!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Transporting family
  • Does recommend this car
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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2016 Plum Escalade that I'm Plum crazy about!!!

I love my Cadillac Escalade. Cars are made by humans so naturally they're not perfect. We've been driving it for 7 years with no major problems. My goal is to keep it and get another one soon.

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a New car
  • Used for Having fun
  • Does recommend this car
5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
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Best Experience while purchasing my dream car!

What a wonderful experience it was working with the guys at Zen Motorsports! Excellent customer service from Pete and Gordon. They both treated me as if I were family and correspondent with me in a manner that was beyond exceptional. Honest and transparent commmunication regarding my interest in a specific vehicle and they’re showroom is prestine. They helped me get into my dream vehicle! If you are not only looking for quality vehicles, but also a smooth and ethical purchasing process, Zen Motorsports is the way to go! Pete and Gordon, I graciously thank you again!

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 5.0
  • Interior 5.0
  • Performance 5.0
  • Value 5.0
  • Exterior 5.0
  • Reliability 5.0
  • Purchased a Used car
  • Used for Commuting
  • Does recommend this car
0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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See all 29 consumer reviews

Safety

Based on the 2016 Cadillac Escalade base trim.
Combined side rating front seat
5
Combined side rating rear seat
5
Overall side crash rating
5
Risk of rollover
22.9%
Rollover rating
3
Side barrier rating
5
Side barrier rating driver
5
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat
5
Side pole rating driver front seat
5

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Cadillac
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
48 months/50,000 miles
Corrosion
48 months/50,000 miles
Powertrain
72 months/70,000 miles
Maintenance
48 months/50,000 miles
Roadside assistance
72 months/70,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
5 years/less than 60,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
New: 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper; CPO: One year/unlimited miles bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain
6 years/100,000 miles (2012-2017 models)
Dealer certification required
172-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

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