2014 Cadillac XTS

PREVIEW

Last year, the big news was simply that Cadillac had finally introduced a modern full-size luxury sedan. This year, though, it's all about what's under the 2014 Cadillac XTS's hood. Although we generally praised the XTS in its first year of production, we were underwhelmed by the standard 304-hp V6 engine, panning its relatively modest output given the size of the car. But the 2014 XTS has 410 reasons why power won't be an issue going forward.

That's because the new CTS sport sedan's optional turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 is available on the XTS, too. Rated at a whopping 410 hp and paired exclusively with all-wheel drive, the turbo V6 gives this dignified cruiser the authoritative acceleration it deserves. Sure, you can stick with the base V6 and still enjoy a great all-around luxury experience. But if you're with us in believing that a proper Caddy should haul the mail, the new XTS turbo, or Vsport, as Cadillac calls it, is just what the doctor ordered.

Otherwise, the 2014 Cadillac XTS is familiar from last year, and that's good news as well. This is a traditional luxury ride with a gleaming modern edge, offering age-old Cadillac virtues like comfort and space, but adding daring style outside and a festival of technology inside. Indeed, the XTS's spaceship-like cockpit and touch-sensitive control panel could be a turnoff for those who yearn for the days of simple knobs and buttons. But if you're looking for a new twist on this classic formula, few cars can compare.

Actually, few cars even compete in this segment anymore. One alternative that comes to mind is the Chrysler 300C, a fancy version of a lower-priced model; another is the Hyundai Genesis, an aging but competent rival. Then there's the Lincoln MKS, a technically similar luxury sedan that has always left us cold. On the higher end, you could look at models like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but they're really midsize cars and don't come close to matching the Cadillac's interior room. See what we mean? There's not much else in this price range if you want a true full-size sedan. And with the new turbo V6 in the mix, the XTS's case is only getting stronger.

FEATURES

The 2014 Cadillac XTS is a five-passenger luxury sedan. There are four trim levels: base, Luxury Collection, Premium Collection and Platinum Collection. Note that the Premium and Platinum Vsport versions come with the optional twin-turbo V6.

Standard equipment for the base XTS includes 19-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, xenon headlamps, heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (with power lumbar control), a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and leather/faux-suede upholstery. Standard technology features include Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8-inch center touchscreen with Cadillac's CUE interface, OnStar, voice controls and an eight-speaker Bose sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, HD radio, iPod/USB connectivity and an auxiliary input.

The XTS Luxury Collection adds LED lighting accents, visible dual-exhaust outlets in the rear fascia, illuminated door handles, rain-sensing wipers, adjustable thigh support for front passengers, extended wood interior trim, a heated steering wheel, driver and front-passenger memory functions, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, interior ambient lighting, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, an automated parallel-parking system and rain-sensing wipers.

The Premium Collection builds on those offerings with adaptive headlamps; automatic high beams; a head-up display; an upgraded driver-configurable gauge cluster display; tri-zone automatic climate control; a 110-volt power outlet; a navigation system; voice controls; a 14-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system; rear seat audio controls; and a suite of safety features that include blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alerts and front collision alerts. The Premium Vsport adds 20-inch wheels and a sportier-looking grille.

Finally, the Platinum Collection boasts 20-inch wheels with chrome accents, unique exterior styling, adaptive cruise control with low-speed automatic braking, a panoramic sunroof, a power rear sunshade, a faux suede headliner and additional cabin leather trim with upgraded upholstery for the seats. The Platinum Vsport shares the Premium Vsport's grille, but gets the same chrome-accented wheels as the regular Platinum.

Some of the extra standard features from the higher trim levels can be added to the lower trim levels via various packages. Optional for the XTS Premium and Platinum is a rear-seat Blu-ray/DVD entertainment system with dual fold-out displays.

INTERIOR

The Cadillac XTS gives you the kind of passenger volume you expect from a nearly 17-foot-long luxury sedan. Rear riders in particular will appreciate their ample accommodations. With 18 cubic feet of capacity, the XTS's trunk is one of the biggest on the market, but it's unusually narrow, so golf clubs will likely need to be creatively positioned alongside other luggage.

Of course, we're used to Cadillacs that give us room to stretch out. The XTS's futuristic dashboard, though, is something else altogether. The optional gauge cluster display is beautiful, first of all, with all manner of driver-configurable options. Then there's the CUE ("Cadillac User Experience") interface, which integrates audio, phone, optional navigation and OnStar functionality into an 8-inch touchscreen display. Those familiar with smartphone and tablet interfaces will feel at home with CUE's touchscreen, as it uses similar touch, swipe and pinch commands.

There are also auxiliary touch-sensitive buttons beneath the touchscreen, however, and they're a mixed bag. These buttons help control the stereo and climate systems, and they can be a challenge to use if you're trying to drive at the same time. For efficient operation, you may need to look down at the panel for a bit to see what you're pressing, which of course requires you to take your eyes off the road. As slick as this control panel looks, we're not convinced that it's practical enough for prime time.

UNDER THE HOOD

The 2014 Cadillac XTS starts with front-wheel drive and a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 304 hp and 264 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. All-wheel drive is available and can be identified by the moniker "XTS4." In Edmunds testing, an XTS4 Platinum went from zero to 60 in 7.3 seconds -- a second or so behind similarly priced and powered luxury sedans. Fuel economy stands at an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel-drive models are rated at 17/26/20.

If you want more pep, the Premium and Platinum Vsport trims come with a turbocharged version of the 3.6-liter V6 that produces 410 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard with the turbo V6, as is a six-speed automatic. The EPA rates the XTS Vsport at 16/24/19 mpg.

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2013 Cadillac XTS

PREVIEW

Given the style and dynamic character of the 2013 Cadillac XTS, we'd say Cadillac has completely shed any remnants of its former reputation as a maker of billowy soft land yachts. Riding atop the same platform used to reinvigorate the Buick LaCrosse, the all-new XTS looks to extend Cadillac's youthful style into the upper reaches of its model lineup by replacing the aged DTS and STS sedans. And though Cadillac insists that the XTS is not its flagship sedan -- that car will come later to compete with the top German cruisers -- for now, it represents the pinnacle of a luxury brand that has transformed itself from staid to striking within a decade.

Outside, the XTS expresses Cadillac's current styling vocabulary with its prominent grille, vertical headlamps and taillights, and sharply creased surfaces. The cabin speaks of modern refinement with its use of aluminum, leather and wood, and it's also highlighted by CUE, Cadillac's new electronics interface. It features a touch-sensitive display on the center stack to control navigation, climate systems and connected communication apps like Pandora.

The 2013 Cadillac XTS offers only a single engine choice, a slightly detuned version of the same silky direct-injected 3.6-liter V6 found in the Cadillac CTS sedan. In this application, it generates 304 horsepower, which isn't really enough to allow the large XTS to keep up with similarly priced and powered luxury sedans. On the upside, its estimated 28 mpg on the highway is quite thrifty. The XTS can also be had with all-wheel drive for improved all-weather capability.

In terms of features, the XTS comes pretty well equipped, as even the base model has adaptive suspension dampers, xenon headlamps, leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. Safety is also at the forefront, with an optional package that includes a number of monitoring systems plus a driver seat that vibrates on one side or the other if the XTS' radar systems detect an errant lane change or potential sideswipe.

With plenty of luxury features, available all-wheel drive and an expansive trunk and rear seats, the 2013 Cadillac XTS earns its place among large luxury-oriented sedans like the Chrysler 300C, Hyundai Genesis and Lincoln MKS. As the XTS offers such a leap beyond its Cadillac predecessors, we can understand why mature buyers returning to the brand might feel overwhelmed by the aggressive styling and all the technology packed within. But the only question should be when, not why, they should make the XTS their next Cadillac.

FEATURES

The 2013 Cadillac XTS is a five-passenger luxury sedan. There are four trim levels: base, Luxury Collection, Premium Collection and Platinum Collection.

Standard equipment for the base XTS includes 19-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, xenon headlamps, heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats (with power lumbar control), a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and leather/faux-suede upholstery. Standard electronic features include Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, an 8-inch center touchscreen, OnStar and an eight-speaker Bose sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, HD radio, iPod/USB connectivity and an auxiliary input.

The XTS Luxury Collection adds a heated steering wheel, driver memory functions, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, interior ambient lighting, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and rain-sensing wipers.

The Premium Collection package builds on those offerings with adaptive headlamps, a head-up display, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 110-volt power outlet, a navigation system, voice controls, a 14-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system and a suite of safety features that include blind spot detection, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert and front collision alert.

Finally, the Platinum Collection offers 20-inch wheels, unique exterior styling, a sunroof, a power rear sunshade and additional cabin leather trim. Optional for the Premium and Platinum is the Driver Assist package, which includes adaptive cruise control with low-speed automatic braking.

INTERIOR

The Cadillac XTS slots right in between its DTS and STS predecessors, a little shorter than the former and a little longer than the latter. The XTS is also shorter than the Lincoln MKS, yet offers more front and rear legroom and a larger trunk. With 18 cubic feet of capacity, the XTS's trunk offers plenty of space, though it's somewhat narrow, so golf clubs will likely need to be creatively positioned alongside other luggage.

Ample space is nothing new for a large Cadillac. But it's within the front dash panel that the XTS sets itself apart. The CUE infotainment system -- which stands for Cadillac User Experience -- integrates audio, phone, optional navigation and OnStar functionality into an 8-inch touchscreen display. Those familiar with smartphone and tablet interfaces will feel at home with CUE, as it uses similar touching, swiping and pinching commands.

We've criticized similar interfaces that forgo traditional knobs and buttons for virtual counterparts, as they've proven lifeless and distracting while driving. But Cadillac's unique haptic feedback for its touchscreen sends a small vibration in response to common commands such as climate control adjustments. It's a unique and reassuring feature that helps you keep your eyes on the road.

UNDER THE HOOD

The 2013 Cadillac XTS is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 304 hp and 264 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels is standard. All-wheel drive is available and is specified by the moniker XTS4. In Autoexpress testing, an XTS4 Platinum went from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds -- adequately quick, but still a second or so behind similarly priced and powered luxury sedans. Fuel economy stands at an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel-drive models are rated at 17/26/20.

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2014 Cadillac SRX

PREVIEW

Small and midsize crossover SUVs are now among the best-selling vehicles in any luxury automaker's lineup, and that's certainly the case with the 2014 Cadillac SRX. It's easy to see the appeal of crossovers like the SRX, which combines roomy accommodations for five with an attractive interior and refined ride and handling characteristics. Of course, other luxury crossovers offer similar attributes, so last year Cadillac attempted to set the SRX apart a bit by retrofitting its touch-based CUE infotainment system. We'd call it a mixed success.

Shorthand for Cadillac User Experience, CUE is slick and aesthetically pleasing, as it dispenses with traditional buttons and dials in favor of a central touchscreen display surrounded by other touch-type controls that require you to tap or slide your finger as if you were using a smartphone. It's a hands-on glimpse at the future of automotive design, but we've also found CUE slow to respond to touch inputs and, in some cases, clumsier to use than a conventional control layout. You get used to these foibles in time, but fortunately there are other good reasons to consider the Cadillac SRX.

Wide availability of safety features is one reason, as the SRX's equipment list includes automatic brake intervention in low-speed front- or rear-end collision situations and a safety alert driver seat that vibrates on either the right or left side to alert you to potential hazards on either side of the vehicle. Another feather in Cadillac's cap is the driving experience itself. Although it's not the most athletic crossover SUV in its class, being behind the wheel of an SRX definitely imparts an authentic luxury experience and it strikes an enjoyable balance between ride comfort and handling. It's also one of the few entry-level luxury crossovers that still has a standard V6 engine. The Cadillac is heavy for its size, though, so it never feels blazingly quick and fuel economy suffers as well.

Based on the strength of its overall package, the 2014 Cadillac SRX remains a solid pick in this category. We'd certainly recommend shopping around a bit, though. The 2014 BMW X3 is the front runner among compact to midsize luxury crossovers, as it offers a spacious interior, powerful and efficient engines, and truly outstanding handling for a crossover. Another to consider is the 2014 Audi Q5, which also feels athletic when driven around turns and offers both hybrid and diesel drivetrain options. The best overall value in this class is likely the 2014 Acura RDX, which also has a standard V6 engine but undercuts the SRX's pricing. The Acura doesn't come close to the 2014 SRX's long list of available safety technology, though. If this is a priority for you, the Cadillac is definitely worth a closer look.

UNDER THE HOOD

Every 2014 Cadillac SRX model is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 308 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for all trim levels other than Base. In Autoexpress testing, a front-drive SRX model ran from zero to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, an average time for compact luxury crossovers.

The SRX's fuel economy ratings are slightly below average, with an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city/24 mpg highway) for front-drive models and 18 combined (16 city/23 highway) for AWD. Properly equipped, the SRX can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

INTERIOR

Inside, the SRX's interior trim has a high-quality look and feel, and everything is nicely put together for the most part. We wish some of the wood accents didn't look quite so polished, but the overall impression is an excellent blend of technology-meets-luxury.

The centerpiece of the cabin is certainly the CUE interface, which includes a crisp, clear 8-inch touchscreen that offers mostly intuitive control over audio, phone (and other electronic devices) and climate control functions. It also controls the navigation system when that option is equipped. Much like a smartphone or tablet, the CUE screen responds to familiar touch commands such as swipes and pinches, and includes tactile (haptic) feedback to let you know when a command has been accepted.

Unfortunately, the system is often slow to respond to inputs, and certain features like the slide-bar volume adjustment turn out to be more difficult to use than a conventional knob. In this class, we prefer the BMW iDrive and Mercedes-Benz COMAND interfaces (both of which use a multidirectional dial-type controller). On the upside, the SRX has a good voice recognition interface, so if you get tired of fiddling with the touchscreen, initiating commands by voice is pretty painless.

The Cadillac SRX offers ample room for four adults, although headroom is snug in the rear seat, particularly when the panoramic sunroof is in place. Cargo room is average for the class: 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 61 cubic feet with both sections of the 60/40-split rear seatbacks folded down.

FEATURES

The 2014 Cadillac SRX is a compact luxury crossover SUV available in four trim levels, including Base, Luxury, Performance and Premium.

The base model comes equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, leatherette (premium vinyl) upholstery, an eight-way power driver seat, a reclining and 60/40 split-folding rear seat, cruise control and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The CUE infotainment-control system with an 8-inch display is also standard, as are OnStar, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite and HD radio, two USB ports and an auxiliary audio jack.

The Luxury trim adds a keyless/remote ignition, a blind-spot warning system, a rear cross-traffic alert system, a rearview camera, rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic sunroof and a power liftgate with adjustable opening height. Inside there's leather upholstery, adjustable thigh support for the driver seat, an eight-way power passenger seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, driver memory functions, power-adjustable pedals, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, interior wood trim and accent lighting and a cargo management system. A voice-activated navigation system and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system are optional.

Optional on the Luxury trim level is the optional Driver Awareness package, which includes forward-collision and lane departure warning systems, automatic high beams and a safety alert driver seat. Also available is the Driver Assist package, which incorporates adaptive cruise control, automatic collision preparation and automatic braking (when your SRX identifies a potential low-speed front- or rear-end collision situation).

The SRX Performance model adds 20-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers (all-wheel drive only), variable-effort power steering, adaptive xenon headlights, foglights, the navigation system and the Bose surround-sound audio system.

The top-of-the-line SRX Premium adds the Driver Awareness package as standard, along with tri-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and rear-seat audio controls.

A towing package and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual seatback-mounted screens are available on all but the base model.

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2013 Cadillac SRX

PREVIEW

The 2013 Cadillac SRX receives a new electronics interface. Called CUE, this touchscreen system operates via voice command or smartphone-like hand gestures. The 2013 SRX also has new safety features, an active noise-cancellation system to reduce wind and road noise, and subtly restyled front and rear fascias.

You'll probably be surprised to learn that the best-selling model line under the Cadillac umbrella is the Cadillac SRX crossover. GM's luxury-vehicle division has worked diligently at making the formerly forgettable SRX utility into a serious player since its redesign a couple years ago, and the 2013 Cadillac SRX is unquestionably the best version yet.

For 2013 the Cadillac SRX receives a revised interior centered around the introduction of the brand's "Cadillac User Experience" (CUE) infotainment interface. The heart of the CUE system is an interactive screen with gesture controls similar to those that made Apple products so ubiquitous. If you're a fan of simpler controls and a minimalist aesthetic, it's all for the better. Probably no interface approach is ever going to be perfect for everyone, but CUE is quite effective for many tasks. Also, adopting CUE has definitely cleaned up what before was a virtual shotgun blast of buttons on the SRX's center stack.

Meanwhile, Cadillac isn't standing still with the SRX's safety profile, either. The new-for-2013 Driver Assist and Driver Awareness packages introduce automatic-braking technologies that help to reduce the chance of low-speed impacts. The 2013 SRX also joins Cadillac's XTS and ATS sedans in using the new, vibrating Safety Alert Seat to warn that the car's sensors have detected an impending dangerous situation. The optional wiggle-my-seat warning system might not appeal to everyone (it can be turned off), but it is a unique approach.

These upgrades for 2013 certainly make the SRX even more appealing. But this makeover can't totally eradicate a couple of this luxury crossover's basic shortcomings. The SRX is markedly heavier than just about any crossover, meaning performance and fuel economy aren't as competitive as they could be. Also the SRX's sharply creased styling makes for cramped headroom and some challenging sight lines.

Still, Cadillac's focus on upgrading the 2013 SRX's interior and slightly freshening its sheet metal has largely put the SRX on equal footing with other top compact luxury crossovers. We do suggest shopping around some, perhaps taking a look at the less expensive 2013 Acura RDX, the sportier 2013  BMW X3 or the roomier 2013 Volvo XC60. Even so, though it was once an also-ran to the best luxury crossovers, the 2013 Cadillac SRX now deserves serious consideration.

FEATURES

The 2013 Cadillac SRX is a compact luxury crossover SUV available in four trim levels, including Base, Luxury, Performance and Premium.

The base model comes equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, roof rails, keyless entry, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, premium vinyl upholstery, an eight-way power driver seat, a reclining and 60/40 split-folding rear seat, cruise control and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The CUE infotainment-control system with an 8-inch display is also standard, as are OnStar, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite and HD radio, two USB ports and an auxiliary audio jack.

Move up to the SRX Luxury and you get front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot and cross-traffic alert, a rearview camera, rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic sunroof, keyless ignition/entry and a power liftgate with adjustable opening height. Inside the cabin there's leather upholstery, adjustable thigh support for the driver seat, an eight-way power passenger seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, driver memory functions, power-adjustable pedals, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, interior accent lighting and a cargo management system. A voice-activated navigation system and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system are optional.

Optional on the Luxury trim level is the optional Driver Awareness package -- with forward-collision alert, lane departure warning and the safety alert driver seat. Also available is the Driver Assist package, which incorporates adaptive cruise control, automatic collision preparation and automatic braking.

The SRX Performance model adds 20-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive dampers (all-wheel drive only), variable-effort power steering, adaptive xenon headlights, foglamps, the navigation system and the Bose surround-sound audio system.

The top-of-the-line SRX Premium adds the Driver Awareness package plus a few extra goodies that include tri-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and rear seat audio controls.

A towing package and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual seatback-mounted screens are available on all but the base model.

INTERIOR

Fitting Cadillac's CUE infotainment-control system redefined the 2013 SRX interior to become one of the most interesting and enabling in any luxury crossover. Gone is the touchscreen that rose from the dash and always looked like something of an afterthought. Gone is the sea of buttons -- not all logically arranged -- spread out over the SRX's center stack. In their place is a crisp and clear LCD screen that offers mostly intuitive control over the audio, phone (and other electronic devices) and climate control functions.

Amazingly, there now are just four buttons: power, volume up/volume down and "home." Most of the functions can be voice-commanded, but the CUE screen responds to familiar touch commands such as swipes and pinches -- and includes tactile feedback to let you know when a command has been accepted. The effect of removing the center stack's button clutter is further enhanced by the ability to reconfigure the information in the instrument cluster to a variety of driver preferences. No longer are you locked into looking at the same speedometer, tachometer and ancillary gauges.

The visual impact from the CUE cleanup and the new instrument-cluster capabilities helps to impart a serious high-tech overtone for what already was one of the better luxury crossover interiors. Some new interior color combinations lend an airy vibe and the high-quality look and feel of the SRX's interior trim is highlighted by generally good fit and finish. We wish some of the wood accents didn't look quite so polished, but the overall impression is an excellent blend of technology-meets-luxury.

There's ample (if not overly generous) room for four adults, although the roof line -- particularly if the optional panoramic sunroof is in place -- definitely can pinch those in the rear. Cargo room is about average for the class: 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 61 cubic feet with both sections of the 60/40-split rear seatbacks folded down.

UNDER THE HOOD

The engine choice for the 2013 Cadillac SRX is simple, since every model features a 3.6-liter V6 that generates 308 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available for any SRX trim. When Autoexpress tested a front-drive SRX Performance, it ran from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, an average time for compact luxury crossovers.

In terms of fuel economy, the SRX's heft helps put it slightly below average, with an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined for front-drive models and 16/23/18 for AWD. There is a switchable Eco driving mode that Cadillac claims can improve fuel economy by up to 1 mpg.

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2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

PREVIEW

On paper, the 2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid might make sense to some shoppers. Consider for a moment that this full-size SUV can seat up to eight in relative luxury and bests the conventional gasoline-powered Escalade by 5 mpg in combined driving. Then again, on paper, the New York Yankees should win the World Series every single year.

For starters, the Escalade Hybrid brings with it some discouraging drawbacks, such as slow acceleration, reduced towing capacity and a higher price than regular Escalades. On top of that, you're still stuck with the same faults that haunt the regular Escalade. Of these faults, the third-row seats are one of the most obvious, with a distinct lack of space for the center passenger. Cargo space also suffers -- the rearmost seats do not fold neatly out of the way and require complete removal in order to accommodate a respectable amount of luggage.

For these reasons, we'd suggest checking out some lesser-known alternatives. Diesel-powered luxury SUVs like the Audi Q7 TDI and Mercedes-Benz GL350 Bluetec achieve slightly better fuel economy figures without a penalty in acceleration or braking. As an added bonus, these German Suburbans also come with a significantly lower price tag, though seating is limited to seven. The 2013 Toyota Highlander Hybrid bests them all in terms of price and mileage, but most certainly lacks their luxury and road presence.

If you are that rare individual who needs an eight-passenger luxury hybrid vehicle, you are indeed limited to the 2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. Beyond that, however, we think you'll be happier with any of the aforementioned choices.

FEATURES

Classified as a full-size SUV, the 2013 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is offered in base and Platinum Edition trim levels. It seats seven people with standard second-row captain's chairs and eight with the optional second-row bench.

Standard equipment includes 22-inch wheels, a magnetically controlled adaptive suspension, running boards, a power liftgate, automatic xenon headlights, foglamps, a roof rack, heated power-folding mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, a blind-spot warning system, rear parking sensors, a sunroof, remote ignition and keyless ignition/entry.

Inside you get tri-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated 10-way power seats with driver memory functions and four-way lumbar adjustments, leather upholstery (first and second rows, third-row vinyl), power-adjustable pedals, a power tilt-only steering wheel, heated second-row seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Electronic features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity, OnStar emergency communications, a navigation system, a touchscreen interface, voice controls, a rear seat entertainment system and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio, an iPod/USB audio interface and rear controls.

The Platinum Edition differentiates itself with unique front styling, 22-inch chrome wheels, LED headlamps, power-retractable running boards (optional on base), leather-covered dash and door tops, upgraded seat leather, contrasting stitching, upgraded wood trim and heated and cooled cupholders. For the Platinum, the entertainment system gets dual display screens mounted in the front headrests.

INTERIOR

The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid's cabin is nearly identical to that found in the conventionally powered version, boasting a stylish contemporary design with top-quality materials and finish. The layout of its controls is straightforward and their operation is intuitive, including the standard navigation system.

There's room for as many as eight, but the rearmost seats offer cramped legroom for all but small passengers. When it comes time to load up with cargo, those 50/50-split third-row seats also don't fold away conveniently like those in competitors; they are heavy and awkward to remove, and must be stored elsewhere. Once they're out, though, there are 109 cubic feet of maximum cargo space available.

UNDER THE HOOD

The 2013 Escalade Hybrid is powered by a 6.0-liter V8 working in conjunction with a battery pack mounted under the second-row seat and a pair of 60-kilowatt electric motors located inside a unique automatic transmission dubbed "Two-Mode." GM engineers say that combined output with the electric motors is 379 horsepower. The Escalade Hybrid can be had with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.

In Autoexpress performance testing, the Escalade Hybrid went from zero to 60 mph in a slow 9.3 seconds; the regular Escalade does it in 7.5. EPA-estimated fuel economy is good for a V8-powered large SUV, returning 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined regardless of whether you get rear- or all-wheel drive.

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2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT

PREVIEW

Pickup trucks are a staple of the American landscape. Whether serving as a rugged workhorse on construction sites or towing big toys to a vacation destination, trucks are the modern equivalent of the cowboy's faithful horse.

Today's pickups are available across the spectrum, from bare-bones work trucks to fully loaded luxury liners. At the sharp end of the luxury side is the 2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT. Based on the Chevrolet Avalanche mash-up of an SUV and pickup truck, the Escalade EXT features a unique midgate behind the rear seats that can be stowed to extend the truck bed into the passenger compartment. Of course it also comes with that special Cadillac opulence mostly unheard of in truck circles.

In theory, this gives owners the comfort of an SUV and the brawn of a truck. And in practice, you can indeed have the best of both worlds. We doubt, however, that most would consider hauling messier cargo that might spoil the upscale interior. Along with this peculiar versatility, the 2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT also suffers from some of the Avalanche's faults. The truck's large footprint makes it cumbersome in parking lots and the lack of rearward visibility further hampers close-quarter maneuverability.

On top of these drawbacks that are common to pickups, the Escalade EXT is also hindered by a limited towing and hauling capacity compared to conventional trucks. Furthermore, the Escalade's attractiveness to car thieves and its thirsty V8 engine should cause some concern.

As unique as the Escalade EXT is, luxury and pickup trucks aren't nearly as mutually exclusive as they once were. High-end versions of conventional trucks like the Ford F-150 King Ranch, GMC Sierra Denali and Ram 1500 Laramie all deliver surprising amounts of luxury, even if not quite on par with the Cadillac. These pickups do, however, benefit from better towing and hauling capability. But if you desire style over substance, there really is nothing quite like the 2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT.

FEATURES

Classified as a full-size luxury pickup, the 2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT is available in three trim levels: Base, Luxury and Premium.

Standard features on the entry-level Base model include 18-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive air suspension, automatic xenon headlights, foglamps, heated power-folding outside mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, rear privacy glass, a roof rack, side steps, a fold-down midgate, lockable three-piece cargo cover, rear parking sensors, remote ignition and keyless ignition/entry.

Inside there's tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats (with heating, cooling, driver memory settings and four-way lumbar adjustment), heated rear seats, power-adjustable pedals, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt-only steering wheel and remote ignition. Electronic features include OnStar, Bluetooth, a navigation system, real-time traffic, a rearview camera and an eight-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with a CD changer, satellite radio, rear seat audio controls, rear seat headphone jacks and an iPod/USB interface.

The Luxury model adds 22-inch chrome alloy wheels, Magnetic Ride Control adjustable suspension (optional on Base), automatic high beams, a sunroof and a heated steering wheel. Springing for the top-of-the-line EXT Premium trim gets you different wheels, a body-colored grille and other exterior trim pieces, power-retracting assist steps and a rear-seat entertainment system (the latter two items are optional on the Luxury).

INTERIOR

The Escalade EXT distinguishes itself from other luxury-lined pickups with a genuinely upscale cabin in terms of design, materials and features. Leather upholstery set off by tasteful wood and metal trim gives the passenger cabin a definite rich feel, though cheap plastic trim in a few spots detracts from the overall effect. The cabin's biggest downside -- limited visibility to the rear and sides -- is offset somewhat by the standard rearview camera and rear parking sensors.

Both rows of seats offer good head- and legroom, with the front buckets' heating/cooling making it especially easy for occupants to get comfortable, although some drivers will wish for a telescoping steering wheel. Folding the rear seats forward and opening the lower half of the midgate expands the 5-foot bed into a huge enclosed cargo area that stretches 8 feet from just behind the front seats to the lockable tailgate. For larger cargo, removing and stowing the rear window and the three-piece tonneau cover creates a traditional pickup bed large enough for the biggest antique store finds.

UNDER THE HOOD

Powering the 2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT is a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission, full-time all-wheel drive and a heavy-duty locking rear differential are all standard.

In Edmunds performance testing, the EXT went from zero to 60 mph in 7 seconds, which is very quick for a truck. EPA fuel economy estimates are disappointing, however, at 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 14 mpg combined. Properly equipped, the EXT can tow 7,600 pounds, a few thousand pounds less than a traditional crew cab pickup.

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2015 Cadillac Escalade ESV

PREVIEW

The new Escalade ESV still rides on its traditional body-on-frame architecture, and though luxury snobs might dismiss the idea, owners of weekend toys will not. The base rear-wheel-drive Escalade ESV, properly equipped, can tow up to 8,000 pounds (the all-wheel-drive ESV is rated for 7,700 pounds). The Escalade also carries over with a 6.2-liter V8, but this one comes from GM's latest generation of direct-injection engines, with output increased to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

But the Escalade ESV's interior design and materials are unquestionably its centerpiece upgrades. Previously little better than the Suburban/Yukon XL twins, the cabin of the 2015 Escalade ESV features a wealth of perforated leather, prominent stitching and genuine wood, while wrapped and tiered surfaces demonstrate a level of detail and build quality absent in previous generations.

The dash and instrument panel are anchored by the flashy -- and frustrating -- CUE multimedia system and its 8-inch touchscreen interface, but it's the larger 12.3-inch configurable gauge cluster and "driver information center" that really impresses with sharp, high-definition colors and graphics.

The second row is available with captain's chairs or a bench seat (for eight-passenger capability), and for 2015 the Escalade ESV finally gets a fold-down third-row seat. The bad news is that it doesn't fold completely flat and its versatility eats into cargo capacity. The new Escalade ESV drops nearly 17 cubic feet of capacity, but still delivers 120.5 cubes. The good news is that you no longer need to call a neighbor to help remove and stow the third row when it's not needed.

The only people who may not fully appreciate the Escalade ESV's new cabin are rear seat passengers. The new model is fractionally longer and wider, about 1.5 inches in both directions, which nets the driver and front seat passenger an additional 4 inches of legroom. Riders in the third row, however, lose almost a half-inch of room to stretch out. Headroom in both rows is also down as much as a half-inch depending on the model.

Changes to the sheet metal aren't as dramatic as changes inside, but the Escalade ESV still cuts a dashing figure from the curb. Both the front and rear ends use steeply stacked vertical layouts for the standard LED headlights and taillights, and Cadillac's current grille design is presented in its largest form yet. And like the Suburban and Yukon XL, the Escalade ESV's tailgate is topped by a prominent spoiler that improves its aerodynamic profile.

The 2015 Cadillac Escalade goes on sale this spring starting at $72,690, almost $8,000 more than the current base model. That's still less than a comparable Land Rover Range Rover, and about what you'd pay for a Mercedes-Benz GL-Class with a V8 and a few options. The forthcoming redesigned Lincoln Navigator is also worth a look when comparing full-size SUVs. Check back for a full review of the 2015 Escalade, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.

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2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV SUV

PREVIEW

Just like a Rolex on your wrist or a Louis Vuitton bag on your shoulder, parking a 2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV in your driveway is synonymous with living large. That also happens to be a fairly apt description of everyday life with this full-size luxury SUV.

At more than 18 feet long, the Escalade ESV dwarfs most other passenger vehicles on the road. It's also an exceptionally luxurious way to transport up to eight people and their luggage. The 403-horsepower V8 under the hood of this gussied-up version of the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL is another celebration of excess, as it delivers strong acceleration and robust towing capacity.

As is typical in life, though, there's a downside to this super-size approach. The ESV's expansive dimensions make it challenging to maneuver in heavy traffic, not to mention cramped parking garages. Then, there's fuel economy, which is predictably poor. The Cadillac Escalade ESV also suffers from an awkward third-row seat design that requires you to remove the entire seat from the vehicle (as opposed to folding it into the floor) before making use of this luxury SUV's full cargo capacity.

The 2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV makes sense for those few buyers who actually need its uncommon blend of luxurious accommodations, enormous seating and cargo capacity and brawny towing capability. We also like it more than its domestic rival, the Lincoln Navigator L. But we certainly suggest comparing the Escalade ESV to the Infiniti QX80, Lexus LX 570 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. You'll give up some passenger space and cargo capacity by choosing any one of these competitors, but they're all far easier to maneuver than the big Caddy and surpass it in overall refinement.

FEATURES

The 2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a full-size, extended-wheelbase luxury SUV. It's to the Suburban what the regular Escalade is to the Tahoe. It's offered in four trim levels: base, Luxury, Premium and a top-of-the-line Platinum Edition. The cabin seats seven with the standard captain's chairs and eight with the second-row bench seat that's optional on all but the Platinum Edition.

Standard equipment on the entry-level Escalade includes 18-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive and auto-leveling suspension, a locking rear differential, automatic xenon headlights, foglights, power-folding heated mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, running boards, roof racks, a power liftgate, rear parking sensors and keyless ignition/entry. Interior features include tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated power-adjustable front seats with driver memory functions, heated second-row seats, a 50/50-split third-row seat, a power tilt-only steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Standard technology features include a touchscreen interface, a navigation system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity, OnStar emergency communications, voice controls and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio, an iPod/USB audio interface, rear seat controls and two sets of wireless headphones.

Moving up to the Luxury trim level gets you 22-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded adaptive suspension, automatic high beams, a sunroof, a blind-spot warning system, a power-folding and -tumbling second row and a heated steering wheel. Options here include power-retractable running boards and a rear seat video entertainment system with a single screen. The Premium gets you all of the above plus distinctive exterior trim and unique 22-inch alloy wheels. LED headlights are an option.

The Platinum Edition starts with all those goodies and adds its own special exterior styling details and 22-inch chrome wheels, upgraded leather upholstery, leather-trimmed dash and door tops, genuine wood accents, contrasting stitching, heated and cooled cupholders, and unique interior color choices. The standard video entertainment system also gets dual headrest-mounted screens.

INTERIOR

Compared to the Chevy model upon which it's based, the 2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV offers a handsome cabin with an upscale look enhanced by high-quality materials. From a practical perspective, the gauges and controls are easy to see and operate. The Escalade hasn't received Cadillac's latest CUE electronics interface, which means the Escalade's touchscreen and overall dashboard layout looks comparatively dated. But we suspect a lot of people will actually find this older setup a little easier to use.

Regardless of whether it's fitted with the standard second-row captain's chairs or the available second-row bench, occupants of the first two rows will enjoy a generous amount of head- and legroom. The available power flip-and-fold feature for the second-row seats makes accessing the three-person third row easier, but between the climb required to get back there and the distinct shortage of legroom, the third row is really only suitable for children.

In addition, the Escalade's 50/50-split third-row seats do not fold into the floor. While this might not seem like a big issue at first, it can be a serious hassle to remove the two heavy sections and find a place to store them whenever you need extra cargo space (in most other eight-passenger SUVs and crossovers, the third-row seats fold into the floor). That said, it's hard to fault a vehicle that gives you a whopping 90 cubic feet of cargo room when the third row is removed, and a humongous 137 cubic feet when the second row is folded down as well.

UNDER THE HOOD

The 2014 Cadillac Escalade ESV gets a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 403 hp and 417 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is an option.

Accelerating from zero to 60 mph should take a little over 7 seconds, an impressive number by large SUV standards. Estimated EPA fuel economy numbers are about what you'd expect from a heavy vehicle with a powerful V8: 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive and 13/18/14 with all-wheel drive. A properly equipped rear-drive Escalade ESV can tow up to 8,000 pounds, while the all-wheel-drive model's towing capacity is only slightly less at 7,700 pounds.

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2015 Cadillac Escalade

PREVIEW

We admit it: We've wondered whether the Escalade deserves to stick around. Most of the top-end luxury SUVs long ago ditched their pickup roots for the bones of cushier, compliant unibody platforms, yet the Escalade continued atop its working-class Suburban frame. Nor did it do anything special that other luxury tanks didn't, except maybe show more composure during hip-hop video shoots. But new design touches and a vastly upgraded cabin help make the 2015 Cadillac Escalade a standout in the class that it once defined.

The new Escalade still rides on traditional body-on-frame architecture, and though luxury snobs might dismiss the idea, owners of weekend toys will not. The base rear-wheel-drive Escalade, properly equipped, can tow up to 8,200 pounds (the all-wheel-drive Escalade is rated for 8,000 pounds). The Escalade also carries over a 6.2-liter V8, but this one comes from GM's latest generation of direct-injection engines, with output increased to 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

But the Escalade's interior design and materials are unquestionably its centerpiece upgrades. Previously little better than the Suburban/Yukon twins, the cabin of the 2015 Escalade features a wealth of perforated leather, prominent stitching and genuine wood, while wrapped and tiered surfaces demonstrate a level of detail and build quality absent in previous generations.

The dash and instrument panel are anchored by the flashy -- and frustrating -- CUE multimedia system and its 8-inch touchscreen interface, but it's the larger 12.3-inch configurable gauge cluster and "driver information center" that really impresses with sharp, high-definition colors and graphics.

The second row is available with captain's chairs or a bench seat (for eight-passenger capability), and for 2015 the Escalade finally gets a fold-down third-row seat. The bad news is that it doesn't fold completely flat and its versatility eats into cargo capacity. The new Escalade drops nearly 15 cubic feet of capacity, but still delivers 94 cubes. The good news is that you no longer need to call a neighbor to help remove and stow the third row when it's not needed.

The only people who may not fully appreciate the Escalade's new cabin are rear seat passengers. The new model is fractionally longer and wider, about 1.5 inches in both directions, which nets the driver and front seat passenger an additional 4 inches of legroom. Riders in the third row, however, lose almost an inch of room to stretch out (ESV models fare better). Headroom in both rows is also down as much as a half-inch depending on model.

Changes to the sheet metal aren't as dramatic as changes inside, but the Escalade still cuts a dashing figure from the curb. Both the front and rear ends use steeply stacked vertical layouts for the standard LED headlights and taillights, and Cadillac's current grille design is presented in its largest form yet. And like the Suburban and Yukon, the Escalade's tailgate is topped by a prominent spoiler that improves its aerodynamic profile.

The 2015 Cadillac Escalade goes on sale this spring starting at $72,690, almost $8,000 more than the current base model. That's still less than a comparable Land Rover Range Rover, and about what you'd pay for a Mercedes-Benz GL-Class with a V8 and a few options. The forthcoming redesigned Lincoln Navigator is also worth a look when comparing full-size SUVs.

Check back for a full review of the 2015 Escalade, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.

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2014 Cadillac Escalade

PREVIEW

Over the last decade, Cadillac designers and engineers have done a remarkable job of transforming the brand's image from over-the-hill to up-and-coming. Now, however, the very nameplate that helped propel this transformation, the Cadillac Escalade, feels like an anachronism.

To its credit, the 2014 Cadillac Escalade maintains the attributes that made it so popular in the first place, including bold styling, a powerful V8, strong towing capacity, an upscale interior and a long list of standard features and desirable options. But driving an Escalade is no longer as fashionable as it once was, and alongside the newer offerings in this price range, this large luxury SUV is outdated.

Disappointing fuel economy, long braking distances, ponderous handling and 50/50-split third-row seats that have to be wrestled out and stashed someplace before you can load large cargo have become deal-breakers for many luxury SUV buyers. The fact that the Cadillac Escalade has consistently been a popular target for car thieves is another prominent turn-off.

Compared to its domestic rival, the Lincoln Navigator, the Escalade is still the better choice given its more robust V8. But if you check out the Infiniti QX80 (formerly the QX56), Lexus LX 570 or the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class you'll generally find that they provide greater versatility and refinement, and are simply easier to drive on an everyday basis. Overall, the 2014 Cadillac Escalade is still a deluxe SUV, but in the face of such modern competition, it's a little too old-school to recommend.

FEATURES

The 2014 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size SUV that's available in four trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium and the top-of-the-line Platinum Edition. Seating for seven is standard, while all but the Platinum Edition can also be had with a second-row bench that bumps capacity up to eight passengers. The Escalade Hybrid, the extended-length Escalade ESV and the pickup-like EXT are reviewed separately.

The entry-level Escalade comes fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive and auto-leveling suspension, a locking rear differential, automatic xenon headlights, foglights, heated power-folding mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, rear parking sensors, towing hardware, running boards and a power liftgate. Inside, the standard equipment list continues with tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery (vinyl in the third row), heated and ventilated power front seats with driver seat memory functions, heated second-row captain's chairs, a power tilt-only steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and remote ignition. The list of standard electronics features includes a touchscreen navigation system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity, OnStar emergency communications and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, an auxiliary audio jack, an iPod/USB audio interface and rear controls.

Moving up to the Luxury model adds 22-inch wheels, an upgraded adaptive suspension, automatic high beams, a sunroof, a blind-spot warning system, power flip-and-fold second-row seats and a heated steering wheel. Options include power-retractable running boards and a rear-seat entertainment system with a single display. Springing for the Premium trim level gets you all of the above options plus body-colored styling details in place of chrome, dual exhaust tips and painted wheels. LED headlights are an option.

The Platinum Edition starts with all those goodies and adds its own special exterior styling details, 22-inch chrome wheels, upgraded leather upholstery (including in the third row), heated and cooled cupholders, and unique interior color choices. The standard video entertainment system also gets dual headrest-mounted screens.

INTERIOR

Climb behind the Cadillac Escalade's steering wheel and you'll find yourself in a handsome space with leather upholstery accented by simulated wood and metal trim. The Escalade hasn't received Cadillac's latest CUE electronics interface, which means the Escalade's touchscreen and overall dashboard layout looks comparatively dated. But we suspect a lot of people will actually find this older setup a little easier to use.

Both front seat and second-row occupants enjoy comfortable accommodations thanks to heated and ventilated seats up front and heated seats in the second row. There's a good amount of head- and legroom for those passengers, too, which is something that can't be said for anyone exiled to the 50/50-split third-row seat. It's cramped even for kids.

The interior's greatest weakness, however, is the antiquated design of those third-row seats. Unlike the examples in many of the Escalade's competitors that fold into a well in the floor, these must be removed and stored in order to take advantage of the interior's humongous cargo hold (total capacity is 108.9 cubic feet behind the front seats). With the third-row seats removed, there's still a healthy 60.3 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row.

UNDER THE HOOD

Powering the 2014 Cadillac Escalade is a 6.2-liter V8 that puts out 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are standard, with an all-wheel-drive system available as an option. Note that this is a light-duty AWD system, with no low-range gearing for off-road use.

In Autoexpress performance tests, an all-wheel-drive Escalade accelerated from zero to 60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, surprisingly quick for a vehicle this size. Properly equipped, a two-wheel-drive Escalade can tow an impressive 8,300 pounds.

The price for all this muscle, as you might imagine, is poor fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 14 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive and 13/18/15 mpg with all-wheel drive.

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