2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide to the Fifth Generation

The debut of the 2021 Cadillac Escalade marked a significant advancement for Cadillac’s celebrated SUV, representing the fifth generation of this iconic model. This iteration came with a comprehensive redesign that established new benchmarks in the full-size luxury SUV sector. Cadillac emphasized the integration of cutting-edge technology, sophisticated design, and improved performance to create a vehicle that stands out in a crowded marketplace.

Beneath the hood, the fifth generation Escalade provides a choice of two formidable engines. The base engine is a 6.2-liter V8, delivering an impressive 420 horsepower, suitable for both urban commutes and highway drives.

For those seeking better fuel efficiency, Cadillac introduced a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-six engine, striking a balance between performance and efficiency to attract a wider customer base.

The exterior design of the Escalade showcases bold, angular contours, highlighted by a striking front grille and sleek, vertically oriented LED headlights, creating a commanding presence on the road.

Its larger dimensions not only enhance road presence but also expand interior space, making it one of the most spacious SUVs in its class. The rear design features slender, vertical taillights that reflect the brand’s signature look, ensuring that the Escalade makes an impressive exit.

Inside, the vehicle is equipped with a stunning 38-inch curved OLED display, delivering clear visuals for the instrument cluster, infotainment, and navigation systems.

The interior is adorned with high-quality materials such as leather, wood, and metal accents, creating a luxurious atmosphere, while an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference sound system provides an extraordinary audio experience. Additionally, the Escalade integrates a new independent rear suspension, significantly enhancing ride comfort for all passengers during long journeys.

In the luxury SUV arena, the Cadillac Escalade competes with notable rivals such as the Lincoln Navigator, which offers comparable luxury and technology; the Mercedes-Benz GLS; and the BMW Alpina XB7, which merges performance with luxury in a more compact form.

Despite the fierce competition, the Escalade distinguishes itself with its striking design, expansive interior, and state-of-the-art technology, firmly positioning it as a leading option for those in search of a luxurious and capable full-size SUV.

Model Changes (Yearly Overview)

2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 model year heralded the arrival of the fifth generation Cadillac Escalade, featuring a complete overhaul. One of the most notable updates was the shift to an independent rear suspension, which replaced the earlier solid rear axle, drastically enhancing ride comfort and handling for a more polished driving experience.

The 2021 Escalade offered two engine choices: a 6.2-liter V8 generating 420 horsepower and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline-six engine, providing an option centered on fuel economy without compromising performance. This variety allowed the Escalade to appeal to a wider range of drivers by catering to both power and efficiency preferences.

Inside, significant upgrades were made with the introduction of a 38-inch curved OLED display that spans the dashboard. This impressive setup includes a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7.2-inch control panel, and a 16.9-inch infotainment screen, all designed to elevate the user experience with modern technology.

Cadillac also rolled out its advanced driver-assistance feature, Super Cruise, enabling hands-free driving on approved highways.

The starting price of the 2021 Cadillac Escalade began at around $76,195 for the base Luxury trim. Higher trims, like the Premium Luxury, started at $82,995, the Sport at $85,595, and both the Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims were priced near $99,995, with optional features potentially raising the overall cost.

2022 Cadillac Escalade

In 2022, Cadillac added a new high-performance variant to the Escalade lineup known as the Escalade V. This model brought significant enhancements, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced over 600 horsepower, thus becoming the most powerful Escalade to date.

Beyond its formidable engine, the Escalade V featured a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and distinct styling elements such as a more aggressive front design, quad exhaust outlets, and exclusive 22-inch wheels, all crafted to bolster its performance-oriented character.

Additionally, the 2022 model year included further improvements to Cadillac’s Super Cruise system, enabling automatic lane changes and enhancing its semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

Cadillac also augmented standard features across the entire Escalade lineup, incorporating advanced driver-assistance systems.

The starting price for the 2022 Cadillac Escalade was approximately $76,295 for the base Luxury trim, with the Premium Luxury starting at $84,895, the Sport at $87,595, and both the Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims around $101,595. The high-performance Escalade V variant was priced at roughly $149,990.

2023 Cadillac Escalade

In 2023, the Cadillac Escalade received several updates aimed at enhancing technology and features. The technology package saw significant upgrades, including enhancements to the navigation system and infotainment software, creating a more seamless user experience.

Alongside technology upgrades, Cadillac introduced new standard safety features in the Escalade, such as improvements to the automatic emergency braking system and lane-keeping assist, further bolstering the SUV’s safety profile and yielding greater peace of mind for drivers.

The starting price of the 2023 Cadillac Escalade began at roughly $79,295 for the base Luxury trim, with the Premium Luxury starting at $88,195, the Sport at $91,195, and both the Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims approximately $106,095. The high-performance Escalade V variant remained priced around $149,990.

2024 Cadillac Escalade

In 2024, the Cadillac Escalade underwent subtle design modifications to refresh its look, especially in the exterior lighting and wheel designs. The new wheel options comprised striking 22-inch designs with intricate spoke patterns and polished finishes, enhancing the vehicle’s modern aesthetic.

Cadillac also broadened customization options for the 2024 Escalade, providing buyers with more choices for both interior and exterior finishes. New color options were introduced, including vibrant shades like Midnight Steel and Radiant Red, alongside more subdued offerings such as Frosted Silver and Deep Ocean Blue.

In addition to exterior choices, new trim materials and interior finishes, including premium wood accents and leather options allowed for greater personalization.

The base Luxury trim for the 2024 Cadillac Escalade began at approximately $80,795, with Premium Luxury starting at $89,895, Sport at $92,595, and both Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims priced around $107,095. The high-performance Escalade V variant was listed at approximately $151,090.

2025 Cadillac Escalade

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade features updated thinner LED daytime running lights and squinted-eye-slit headlights. Additionally, Cadillac introduced new 24-inch wheel options, refreshing the vehicle’s appearance.

Inside, the Escalade now boasts an expansive 55-inch diagonal display screen that spans the entire dashboard, beginning with the base models. This is complemented by an 11-inch touchscreen positioned below the main display, dedicated to climate control and lighting functions, enhancing both style and practicality.

The 2025 Escalade also prioritizes passenger comfort, offering an executive seating package that includes second-row captain’s chairs with massage features, elevating the luxury level for rear-seat passengers. Additionally, an upgraded optional AKG stereo system has been enhanced to include an impressive 26 speakers for an extraordinary audio experience that surrounds passengers in high-fidelity sound.

The starting price of the 2025 Cadillac Escalade begins at around $89,590 for the base Luxury trim, with the Premium Luxury at $98,790, the Sport at $99,390, Premium Luxury Platinum at $118,390, Sport Platinum at $118,890, and the high-performance V-Series variant priced at about $161,990.

Common Issues in the Fifth Generation Cadillac Escalade

The Cadillac Escalade is renowned for its luxurious design and commanding road presence, but like all vehicles, it has encountered some reported challenges. Although many owners appreciate the Escalade’s comfort, performance, and advanced technology, some have faced recurring issues that may affect the overall driving experience and reliability. Below are some of the most frequently reported concerns among Escalade owners.

It’s crucial to remember that all cars, even luxury ones, can experience issues, making a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) by an authorized dealer or experienced independent mechanic essential for uncovering any potential problems.

Electrical System Malfunctions: Numerous owners have reported difficulties with the vehicle’s electrical system, particularly involving the infotainment system and other electronic controls. Issues such as unresponsive touchscreens, software bugs, and unexpected system reboots can negatively impact the overall driving experience.

Transmission Difficulties: Some Escalade owners have encountered issues with the 10-speed automatic transmission, which can manifest as rough shifting, delayed engagement, or jerking during gear changes, all of which can result in a less-than-smooth driving experience.

Suspension and Ride Quality Problems: Although the Escalade is celebrated for its comfort, some drivers have experienced challenges with the magnetic ride control system, occurring when the system does not function correctly or fails prematurely, resulting in a harsher ride than expected.

Engine Performance Issues: A few owners have reported engine troubles, including rough idling, stalling, or loss of power, which can be intermittent and challenging to diagnose, causing frustration.

Interior Quality Concerns: Despite its luxury classification, some owners have raised concerns regarding the interior build quality, citing rattles, squeaks, and other noise problems that detract from the otherwise upscale feel of the vehicle.

Recalls

2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade vehicles with third-row seats.

Seat Belt Recall (No. 22V617000)

The rivet securing the buckle to the mounting bracket in the left or right third-row seat belt buckle assembly may have been improperly formed. A deformed rivet could prevent the seat belt from adequately restraining an occupant, heightening the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Powertrain Recall (No. 22V036000)

The rear-wheel driveshaft assemblies might contain internal components that were not properly heat-treated, potentially leading to driveshaft failure. Such failure can result in a sudden loss of drive power, increasing the likelihood of a crash.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Fuel System Recall (No. 21V739000)

The fuel pump power control module may cause the fuel pump to malfunction or operate intermittently, disrupting fuel flow to the engine and potentially leading to an unanticipated engine stall. An engine stall increases the risk of a crash.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Steering Recall (No. 21V455000)

A software error could lead to a loss of power steering assist at startup or while driving. Increased steering effort, especially at lower speeds, raises the risk of a crash.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Electrical System/Airbag Recall (No. 21V421000)

An issue with the communications gateway module may cause an inconsistent warning light for the airbag, failing to alert the driver to potential problems, thereby increasing the risk of injury.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Seat Belt Recall (No. 21V190000)

The third-row outboard seat belts could have been misrouted or trapped behind the seat-folding mechanism, potentially damaging the seat belts. A compromised seat belt may break during a collision, heightening the risk of injury to occupants.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Seat Belt Recall (No. 20V811000)

Incorrect bolts might have been utilized in one or more fastening locations securing the seat belts to the vehicle. If a wrong bolt was employed, the seat belt may not be securely attached, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Electrical System Recall (No. 20V790000)

The front passenger seat belt and airbag status telltale lights may be set to “night mode,” rendering them invisible during the day if the vehicle starts with remote start or is restarted without opening the door for about 10 minutes. This could result in a failure to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and may mislead drivers about the front passenger’s seatbelt status or airbag activation, increasing the risk of injury.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Seat Belt Recall (No. 20V811000)

As noted earlier, incorrect bolts may have interfered with proper attachment of seat belts, risking their effectiveness in a crash.

2021 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Electrical System Recall (No. 20V790000)

Similar to prior concerns, visibility issues may impact the airbag and seat belt status indicators, failing to comply with critical safety standards.

2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Exterior Lighting Recall (No. 22V903000)

The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are engaged, deviating from Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and potentially creating glare that limits visibility and heightens crash risk.

2021-2022 Cadillac Escalade vehicles with third-row seats

Seat Belt Recall (No. 22V617000)

Similar to previous reports, the improper formation of rivets in the buckle assembly could hinder seat belt effectiveness, further endangering passenger safety.

2023 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Suspension Recall (No. 23V642000)

There may have been improper heat treatment of the rear suspension outer control arm bolts, suggesting a risk of breakage and subsequent misalignment of the rear wheels, consequently raising crash risk.

2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade vehicles

Exterior Lighting Recall (No. 22V903000)

As noted previously, the activation failure of daytime running lights represents a potential safety concern.

Maintenance and Ownership Expenses

While the Cadillac Escalade epitomizes luxury and advanced technology, it also presents some reported issues that may affect ownership expenses. Many owners laud its comfort and performance; however, recurring problems such as electrical glitches, transmission difficulties, and ride quality concerns can lead to increased maintenance and ownership costs over time.

It is essential to conduct regular maintenance and repairs, as the costs can vary based on whether service is performed at a dealership or an independent mechanic.

Below is a recommended service schedule from Cadillac:

5,000-Mile Service

• Change motor oil and filter
• Check tire pressure, tread depth, and wear patterns
• Lubricate chassis components
• Inspect and clean the battery and cables

10,000-Mile Service

• Check and refill coolant levels
• Inspect and top off transmission fluid
• Examine steering and suspension systems

15,000-Mile Service

• Examine hood latch assembly and door components
• Check the parking brake and overall brake system
• Replace crankcase oil filter
• Change cabin air filter
• Inspect and fill power steering fluid
• Check and fill cooling system fluid
• Conduct on-board diagnostic checks
• Inspect windshield wiper blades and replace if necessary
• Top off windshield washer fluid
• Examine wheels, tire tread, and wear
• Inspect drive belts and replace if necessary
• Check the exhaust system

20,000-Mile Service

• Replace air filter
• Clean batteries and cables
• Assess windshield wipers and top off windshield washer fluid
• Inspect lighting system and replace bulbs as necessary
• Check the exhaust system
• Service coolant system as needed
• Inspect fuel system

30,000-Mile Service

• Inspect brake lines and hoses
• Perform a brake fluid change
• Examine driveshaft for wear
• Check fuel lines
• Evaluate the seatbelt system for safety
• Inspect the steering system and power steering hoses
• Inspect suspension components
• Evaluate wiring harness

40,000-Mile Service

• Change oil in the transfer case
• Examine brake system and replace parts as necessary
• Change differential fluid

Estimated Service Costs for the Cadillac Escalade:

• Oil Change: Typically, a dealership charges between $250 and $300, while independent mechanics may offer prices ranging from $150 to $200.
• Minor Service: Often includes oil change, tire rotation, cabin air filter replacement, and a multi-point inspection, costing between $300 and $600 at a dealership.
• Major Service: Includes all minor service tasks plus additional procedures like replacing spark plugs and performing a brake fluid flush, with dealership prices typically ranging from $1,000 to $2,500, based on service extent and vehicle specifics.
• Tires: A complete set of premium all-season or performance tires like the Michelin Primacy LTX can cost $1,500 to $3,000, depending on specifications.
• Brakes: Replacing brake pads usually costs $300 to $500 per axle at a dealership, rising to between $700 and $1,200 if rotors also need replacement.

Available Options

The fifth generation Cadillac Escalade provides a plethora of options for owners.

Buyers can select from various premium exterior paint finishes, including metallic and tri-coat options that enhance the vehicle’s luxurious appearance. Various alloy wheel designs are available in sizes ranging from 22-inch to 24-inch, offering further customization.

The Sport and Sport Platinum trims feature unique blacked-out exterior accents for an edgier look.

Inside, the Escalade presents several upholstery choices, including premium leather in various color schemes, as well as standard and high-quality semi-aniline leather with quilting options. Interior trim can include real wood or carbon fiber, ensuring a luxurious cabin feel.

The seating layout can also be tailored, allowing for second-row captain’s chairs or bench seating according to the buyer’s needs for comfort or passenger space.

Advanced features include a 38-inch curved OLED display that encompasses the dashboard, merging a digital instrument cluster, infotainment, and navigation system.

An optional high-end AKG audio system with up to 36 speakers provides an immersive sound experience. Technological offerings encompass the latest version of Cadillac’s Super Cruise for hands-free driving on compatible highways and a rear-seat entertainment package with dual 12.6-inch displays.

Moreover, the Escalade includes features like a panoramic sunroof, a rear camera mirror, and an air quality and comfort package with heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, and customizable ambient lighting. Buyers may also add advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and a night vision system.

Performance-oriented options are abundant, especially in the Escalade V, which boasts a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and Brembo brakes, along with distinct exterior styling and exhaust systems designed to enhance dynamic performance.

2021 Cadillac Escalade Options Overview

Key Options

• 38-inch curved OLED display

• Super Cruise hands-free driving system

• Premium leather upholstery options

• AKG audio system with up to 36 speakers

• Panoramic sunroof

Prices and Values of the Cadillac Escalade Fifth Generation (2021-2024)

The Best Cadillac Escalade Fifth Generation (2021-2024) to Choose

When discerning which model of the fifth generation Cadillac Escalade is optimal, several factors come into play.

For those seeking the finest iteration of this generation, the 2024 model year stands out as an excellent option. By this year, the Escalade features several subtle design enhancements, expanded customization choices, and refined technological features, making it one of the most well-rounded versions in its lineage.

The 2024 Escalade also provides a broader range of finishes, offering a more personalized luxury experience compared to earlier models.

For performance enthusiasts, the Escalade V variant, with its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine and distinctive styling, is a superb choice catering to those desiring luxury alongside dynamic driving capabilities.

As of this buyer’s guide, model years 2021 to 2023 are solid purchasing options for market stability.

However, assessing your specific needs, preferences, and budget is crucial when selecting the right Escalade for you.

Keep in mind that the condition and mileage of the vehicle are significant considerations when purchasing a fifth generation Cadillac Escalade. Generally, well-maintained vehicles with lower mileage retain their value better and ensure more reliable performance.

Conduct thorough research, compare prices, and seek models with confirmed service history to find one that promises long-term value.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with a price range starting at approximately $70,000 to over $100,000, the fifth generation Cadillac Escalade is an outstanding option for those in the market for a full-size luxury SUV. It excels in technology and comfort on the road.

While competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW Alpina XB7 pose strong alternatives, the Escalade sets itself apart with its expansive OLED display, luxurious interior options, and powerful engine selections, especially within its high-performance V-Series.

For shoppers looking for a luxury SUV that combines American craftsmanship with cutting-edge features and an exceptional driving experience, the Cadillac Escalade remains an exceptional choice.