Cadillac Escalade vs Escalade ESV: What's Different?
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV are top luxury SUVs. They both have amazing luxury, the latest tech, and great performance. But, their main difference is size.
The 2024 Escalade is priced at $100,810. The Escalade ESV starts at a higher $130,155. Even with the higher price, both give you a luxurious drive. The Escalade has 211.9" in length; the ESV is longer at 227". The standard model has up to 121.0 cu. ft. of cargo space, while the ESV boasts a huge 142.8 cu. ft.
Visit us at D'ELLA Buick GMC in Queensbury, New York, to see these SUVs up close. Our team can show you the differences and help pick the right one for you.
Introduction to Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV
The Cadillac Escalade is a top pick for those who prefer luxury and space in their SUV. It comfortably fits up to seven and starts at $100,810. Cadillac packed craftsmanship and the latest tech into the 2024 model year. If you need more room, there's the Escalade ESV. It's 21 inches longer, great for extra passengers or cargo, with up to 142.8 cu. ft of space..
Under the hood, both models boast a big 6.2L V8 with 420 horsepower. This setup means the Escalade ESV can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 6 seconds. Want even more power? The Escalade V-Series shines, starting at $130,155. It features a supercharged 6.2L V8, making 682 hp and 653 lb.-ft. This equipment catapults the SUV to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
Step inside the Escalade, and you'll see Cadillac's focus on luxury. It introduces the industry's first curved OLED display, equal to twice a 4K TV's pixel density. This 38-inch screen brings together three displays, offering an immersive dashboard. You'll also get advanced safety features, including emergency braking and lane-departure warnings.
Depending on your trim level, enjoy top-notch amenities. The V-Series boasts a 19-speaker Studio Sound, while Platinum trims grab a 36-speaker AKG system. Also, models like the Premium Luxury Platinum come with extras like Air Ride Adaptive Suspension and soft-close doors.
The Cadillac Escalade stands out in the large luxury SUV class. It grabs the number 3 position. Whether you choose the standard or ESV version, you're getting unmatched style, performance, and comfort. It's the hallmark of a luxury SUV.
Design and Dimensions: Comparing Escalade and Escalade ESV
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV look different due to their design and size. They both have a distinct, sharp look outside. Yet, the Escalade ESV is longer, giving it a bigger interior and more room for your things.
Exterior Styling and Length
Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV stand out on the road with their bold looks. But, the ESV is longer. The Escalade is 211.9 inches long, the ESV is 227 inches. This extra length means more space inside for people and storage.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
Inside, both the Escalade and Escalade ESV are full of luxury and comfort. But, the ESV being longer, has more room for everyone and their stuff. The Escalade ESV has up to 142.8 cu. ft. of cargo space. In comparison, the Escalade has up to 121.0 cu. ft.
| Model | Length | Max Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|
| Cadillac Escalade | 211.9 inches | 121.0 cu. ft. |
| Cadillac Escalade ESV | 227 inches | 142.8 cu. ft. |
The Escalade ESV beats the Lincoln Navigator with its big cargo space. The added length improves both storage and room for passengers in the third row.
Choosing between the Escalade or the ESV means picking plenty of space and luxury. They have heated seats, climate control, and a top-notch audio system. With these features, the driving experience becomes a mix of luxury, comfort, and usefulness.
Performance and Engine Specifications
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV dazzle with their powerful performance. They boast impressive engine options. Both have a mighty 6.2-liter V-8 engine under the hood. This gives them a whopping 420 horsepower, making for an exciting drive. They even have a cylinder deactivation feature. This lets them run on four cylinders when you're not pushing hard. It boosts their gas mileage.
If you're after more power, check out the Escalade-V and Escalade-V ESV models. They feature a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 that produces an amazing 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, the Escalade-V can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. And it finishes a quarter-mile in 12.7 seconds at 111 mph.
All Escalades come with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This ensures they perform well and save gas in different conditions. The Escalade ESV, for example, with its V-8 engine, goes from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.9 seconds.
Speaking of saving gas, the rear-wheel-drive Escalade with the V-8 engine gets 14 mpg in the city, 19 on the highway, and 16 combined. The Escalade-V, though, a high-performance model, only does about 11 mpg.
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | 0-60 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Escalade / Escalade ESV | 6.2L V-8 | 420 hp | 460 lb-ft | 5.9 sec (ESV) |
| Escalade-V / Escalade-V ESV | Supercharged 6.2L V-8 | 682 hp | 653 lb-ft | 4.3 sec |
When it comes to towing, both the Escalade and Escalade ESV excel. The Escalade can tow up to 8,200 pounds with 2WD. The Escalade ESV, on the other hand, masters 8,000 pounds with 2WD.
In summary, the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV truly impress with their powerful engines and outstanding performance. They are a top choice for those who want power, luxury, and flexibility.

Luxury Features and Amenities
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV set the bar high for luxury. They offer top-notch features and comfort inside. Owners find the experience tailored to their exquisite taste. Let's dive into the high-end tech and lavish comforts of these cars.
Infotainment System
The heart of the Escalade's interior is its infotainment system. It keeps you entertained and connected while on the road. There's a big touchscreen for easy use, ideal for maps and linking your smartphone. With the MYCADILLAC MOBILE APP, you can control your car from your phone, making every drive personal. It also boasts SiriusXM satellite radio, so you’ll never be bored with a wide range of music, sports, and news.
Advanced Safety Systems
Safety is top priority in the Escalade and Escalade ESV. They come packed with the latest safety features, like Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Alert. There's also Rear Park Assist and a Safety Alert Seat. With these features, you can drive with peace of mind, knowing your vehicle is looking out for you. For even more safety, you can add options like Adaptive Cruise Control and Night Vision, boosting your assurance on the road.
Premium Audio Packages
Music lovers will adore the Escalade's premium audio systems. They create a sound experience that's almost as good as being at a live concert. You can pick from a range of packages. Whether you're into music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the quality and clarity are unmatched.
The Escalade's interior also includes luxurious features for ultimate comfort. The 16-way adjustable front seats are covered in plush Semi-Aniline leather. With heating, cooling, and massage functions, they're a dream. The Ambient Interior Lighting system lets you choose from 26 colors. This enhances your mood while driving, making every trip more enjoyable.
No matter if you choose the Escalade or the Escalade ESV, your drive will be full of luxury and tech. These features show Cadillac's dedication to quality, creativity, and customer happiness.
Escalade vs Escalade ESV: Key Differences
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV differ mainly in size. The ESV is 21 inches longer, offering much more legroom in the back and nearly twice the cargo room. While the standard Escalade can hold up to 121.0 cubic feet of cargo, the ESV jumps to 142.8 cubic feet.
Both models, the Escalade and Escalade ESV, use the same strong 6.2L V8 engine. This engine boasts an impressive 420 horsepower. So, you get a powerful and similar driving experience from either model, reflecting Cadillac's excellence.
| Feature | Escalade | Escalade ESV |
|---|---|---|
| Total Length | Standard | + 21 inches |
| Third-Row Legroom | Standard | Increased |
| Max Cargo Space | 121.0 cu. ft. | 142.8 cu. ft. |
| Engine | 6.2L V8 | 6.2L V8 |
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 420 hp |
Although the Escalade and Escalade ESV vary in size and features, they share the same price starting at $100,810. Your choice between them depends on how much room and cargo space you need.
No matter your choice - standard Escalade or longer ESV - you get Cadillac's luxurious amenities, performance, and advanced tech. It all depends on what you value most in terms of space and flexibility.
Towing Capacity and Capabilities
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV are top choices for towing. The Escalade can pull up to 7,800 pounds, with some sources saying it can even handle 10,500 lbs. On the other hand, the Escalade ESV can pull 7,900 lbs in 2-wheel drive and 7,800 lbs in all-wheel drive.
Both SUVs come with strong engines. The 3.0L Duramax® turbo diesel has 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The 6.2L V8 gasoline engine produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, allowing the Escalade to pull 7,700 pounds. They have a 10-speed automatic transmission, which makes them perform well.
Although the Escalade models can handle a lot, they may not be right for very heavy loads. For example, pulling a 14,000 lbs Cig Mistress boat is too much for them. In these cases, choosing a heavy-duty truck like a 3500-series model is safer.
The towing power of the Escalade and Escalade ESV has improved a lot over previous years. Older versions could tow around 7,000 lbs, showing the upgrades in the new versions.
| Model | Max Towing Capacity | Engine Options |
|---|---|---|
| Cadillac Escalade | 7,800 lbs - 10,500 lbs | 3.0L Duramax® Turbo Diesel, 6.2L V8 |
| Cadillac Escalade ESV (2WD) | 7,900 lbs | 6.2L V8 |
| Cadillac Escalade ESV (AWD) | 7,800 lbs | 6.2L V8 |
When towing with the Escalade or Escalade ESV, follow the guidelines closely. The recommended tongue weight is between 500-600 lbs for the Escalade ESV. Going over the towing or tongue weight limit is unsafe and can hurt the vehicle's performance.
In summary, the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV are great for many towing jobs. But, for really heavy loads, consider vehicles with bigger towing capacities. Choosing the right vehicle ensures your towing is safe and secure.

Trim Levels and Pricing
When you pick a Cadillac Escalade or Escalade ESV, you must know about their different models and prices. Both SUVs have various trims to fit many tastes and budgets. This ensures there's a perfect choice for every luxury SUV fan.
Escalade Trim Options
The 2023 Cadillac Escalade has different trims, each with special features. It has a 6.2L V8 engine that gives 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
The Premium Luxury trim costs $100,810 and has a 3.6L V6 engine that makes 335 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. If you like a sporty feel, go for the Escalade Sport. It's priced at $92,890 and has the same 6.2L V8 engine.
The highest trims are the Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum. The Premium Luxury Platinum includes a top-notch engine and a 10-speed auto transmission. The Sport Platinum has the same engine and similar power.
Escalade ESV Trim Options
Need more space and luxury? The Cadillac Escalade ESV is for you. The base model has the Illumination Package for $1,095. It lets you enjoy features like illuminated door plates and a puddle lamp.
Upgrade to the Premium Luxury trim for more. Add the Touring Package for $2,550. This package includes soft-closing doors and an adaptive air ride system.
Get the Sport trim and you can add the Onyx Package for $2,895. It includes special Cadillac emblems. For the most luxurious experience, the Platinum trims offer the Radiant Package. It comes with 22-inch wheels and a unique grille for $4,495.
Price Comparison
The Escalade ESV is slightly more expensive because it's bigger and offers more features. Yet, both SUVs have many options to fit different budgets and preferences.
| Trim Level | Escalade Price (MSRP) | Escalade ESV Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | $89,090 | $92,090 |
| Premium Luxury | $100,810 | $92,890 |
| Sport | $113,340 | $95,890 |
| Premium Luxury Platinum | $107,390 | $110,390 |
| Sport Platinum | $107,490 | $130,155 |
Even though the starting price of the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV might be higher than some competitors like the Lincoln Navigator, they bring together luxury, high performance, and advanced features. This makes their premium position in the market deserved.
Which One is Right for You: Escalade or Escalade ESV?
Choosing between the Cadillac Escalade and the Escalade ESV depends on what you need and like. They both provide top-notch luxury and performance. However, they serve different lifestyles and needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Thinking about the following factors can help you decide:
- Passenger space: The Escalade ESV is better if you often have many passengers. Its longer size offers more comfy seats, especially in the back.
- Cargo capacity: If you need to carry a lot of stuff, the ESV is your best bet. It has up to 142.8 cu. ft. of space. In comparison, the Escalade has 121.0 cu. ft. This big difference matters a lot if you have many kids.
- Towing needs: While both can tow well, the Escalade can pull 8,200 lbs, slightly more than the ESV's 8,000 lbs. Think about your towing needs carefully.
- Budget: A 2024 Cadillac Escalade starts at $100,810. The Escalade ESV's price begins at $130,155. See which one fits your budget and has the features you need.
The standard Escalade suits those looking for something smaller and easier to drive. It's more agile in cities. Yet, if you have a big family or carry a lot, the ESV's extra space might just be what you need.
The ESV's longer size means a smoother ride and handling isn't as hard as you might think. Drivers often adjust quickly, liking the better ride and extra space.
To really know which model is best, drive both the Escalade and Escalade ESV for a while. This experience will show you how they handle and if size truly matters in your daily use.
Want to see and test them yourself? Visit us at D'ELLA Buick GMC in Queensbury, New York. We're here to help you choose the perfect Cadillac Escalade that fits your life.
Conclusion
The Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV stand out in the full-size SUV field. Both have top-notch luxury and performance. They share a strong 6.2L V8 engine that gives 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. Yet, the Escalade ESV is bigger, offering more room inside and can carry more, with 41.5 cu. ft. of space behind the rear seats. The Escalade is a bit smaller, with 25.5 cu. ft. of cargo space.
The Escalade and Escalade ESV are filled with modern tech and luxury. They have an OLED display, an AKG sound system, and Super Cruise for hands-free driving. You can choose from various colors and wheels, and get features like leather, ambient lighting, and massaging seats. Safety is big too, with HD Surround Vision, Rear Pedestrian Alert, and Automatic Emergency Braking.
The decision between the Escalade and Escalade ESV depends on what you need. If you want more space and cargo room, pick the ESV. But, if you like a slightly smaller but still very luxurious SUV, go for the Escalade. Both choices promise top-quality craftsmanship, performance, and features found in the Cadillac Escalade line.
FAQ
What's the main difference between the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV?
The Escalade ESV is longer than the Escalade by 21 inches. This extra length means the ESV has more room in the back. It has a big third row and much more cargo space too.
How much cargo space do the Escalade and Escalade ESV offer?
The regular Escalade provides up to 121.0 cubic feet of cargo space. But the Escalade ESV has even more, with up to 142.8 cubic feet.
Do the Escalade and Escalade ESV have the same engine?
Both the Escalade and Escalade ESV use a strong 6.2L V8 engine. This engine gives them 420 horsepower. It makes sure they drive well on the road.
What is the towing capacity of the Escalade and Escalade ESV?
The regular Escalade can tow up to 8,200 pounds on 2WD models. The ESV can handle up to 8,000 pounds on 2WD models.
What high-tech features do the Escalade and Escalade ESV offer?
The Escalade and Escalade ESV are packed with high-tech features. They have top-notch infotainment, safety systems, and amazing audio. This makes every ride full of fun and safe too.
What factors should I consider when choosing between the Escalade and Escalade ESV?
Decide based on passenger room, how much you need to carry, towing, and your budget. The standard Escalade is good for those who want a smaller option. The ESV is better for large families or if you need more space.
How do the Escalade and Escalade ESV compare in terms of resale value?
After 5 years, both the Escalade and Escalade ESV lose about 59.1% of their value. This means they share a similar resale value.