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2017 Cadillac Escalade review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Cadillac Escalade highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • 6.2L V8 engine as standard
  • Quiet, luxurious cabin
  • Huge amount of utility for both work and play

Cons

  • Uncomfortable third-row seating
  • Slow and confusing infotainment system
  • Less refined ride than others in its class

Mileage (EPA estimate)

15 city, 20 highway, 17 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

7 photos
Price
Year

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All Cadillac Escalade years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Cadillac Escalade generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2017 Cadillac Escalade?

  • New trim added: Sport Edition for enhanced performance and features.
  • Trim discontinued: Base Model no longer available.
  • Standard equipment on all models now includes advanced safety features.
  • New equipment added: Infotainment system upgraded with larger touchscreen and improved connectivity options.
  • Significant removal: Manual transmission option is no longer offered.

Cadillac Escalade photos

5 reasons to buy the 2017 Cadillac Escalade

1. Spacious interior

The 2017 Cadillac Escalade has a large, opulent, and comfortable cabin. With plentiful passenger space for up to eight people, the Escalade delivers a plush ride for large families, the sports team, or the largest class of rideshare. The second row provides 38.7 inches of headroom and 39 inches of legroom, so taller passengers can stretch out. Farther back, check out 15.2 cu-ft of cargo space or a huge 94.2 cu-ft with all the rear seats folded down. That's well above average for full-size SUVs.

2. Powerful performance

Under the hood of the 2017 Escalade is a stout 6.2L V8, delivering an impressive 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The massive torque ensures brisk acceleration away from stop signs and allows for confident overtaking on highways. This powertrain is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and features cylinder deactivation, which effectively turns it into a four-cylinder when cruising or at stoplights. You won't notice the cylinder deactivation, but you will notice a difference at the pump. The 2017 Cadillac Escalade gets a reasonable EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined from its mighty V8.

Whether cruising around town or enjoying a long road trip, the Escalade offers a commanding and exhilarating driving performance.

3. Platinum trim

The Escalade is more than brute force, and the top-tier Platinum trim is where it shows off finesse. Outside, look for the 22-inch chrome wheels and Platinum badges, while the inside shows off upgraded leather seating and dash surfaces. Platinum tech touches include a rearview mirror that can display a wide-angle view from the rear camera, eliminating rear blind spots; and side steps automatically deploy when the doors open, ensuring easy entry and exit. Power folding rear seats make it easier to convert from people hauling to cargo duty, while the power liftgate opens simply by waving a foot under the rear bumper.

4. Cutting-edge technology

The 2017 Escalade is packed with modern technology features that enhance convenience and entertainment. The Escalade boasts standard features such as a responsive high-resolution CUE infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth® connectivity, and smartphone integration.

The 2017 Escalade's optional features include a refrigerator in the center console, a premium Bose® sound system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and multiple USB ports for an enjoyable and connected experience.

5. Towing capability

The Escalade is built to handle more than just passengers, and it can handle towing duties with similar ease. With its robust body-on-frame construction, the 2017 Escalade is well-suited for hauling trailers, boats, or recreational vehicles. The 2017 Cadillac Escalade with rear-wheel drive and the V8 engine can tow an estimated maximum of 8,300 lbs when properly equipped.

If you're planning a family camping trip or need to tow heavy equipment for work, the Escalade provides the power and capability you need.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.2 out of 5

6 customer reviews
The 2017 Cadillac Escalade is admired for its styling, reliability, and spacious interior. However, concerns about fuel efficiency, limited cargo space, and issues with suspension affecting ride comfort temper overall satisfaction.
3
Average

RepairPal gave the Cadillac Escalade an overall reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Average. This rating ranks Cadillac Escalade 8th out of 20 among Luxury Fullsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Cadillac Escalade

Cadillac Escalade features and specs

Premium Luxury 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • Power Locks
  • Power Windows
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Air Conditioning
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • ABS Brakes
  • Third Row Seat
  • Leather Seats
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Quad Seats
  • Power Folding Third Row
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Head Up Display
  • Rear View Camera
  • Parking Sensors
  • Automated Parking
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Smart Key
  • Remote Start
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Alloy Wheels
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Tow Hitch
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Running Boards
  • Automatic Transmission
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • BOSE Sound System
  • Navigation System
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Android Auto
  • Rear Sunshade
  • Running Boards
  • Flex Fuel Vehicle

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

6.2L

Horsepower

420

Torque (ft-lbs)

460

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

26

Wheelbase

116"

Overall length

203.9"

Width

80.5"

Height

74.4"

Leg room

F 45.3"/M 39"/R 24.8"

Head room

F 39.7"/M 38.7"/R 38.1"

Front tires

P285/45R22

Rear tires

P285/45R22

Seating capacity

7

Max towing capacity

830/8300 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2017 Cadillac Escalade FAQ

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