The Cadillac Escalade sets the standard for full-size luxury SUVs, and it comes in two lengths. The Cadillac Escalade vs. Escalade ESV choice is simpler than it looks: both share the same engines, the same curved display and the same trims. The ESV adds length, and with it more third-row legroom and a much larger cargo area. At Bentley Cadillac in Huntsville, here is how we help drivers choose the right one.
The Cadillac Escalade. Image: Cadillac
What Both Escalade Models Share
Whichever length you pick, you get the same Escalade experience:
- Trims: Luxury, Sport, Platinum Luxury, Platinum Sport and the high-performance V-Series.
- Power: a 6.2L V8 rated at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque with a 10-speed automatic. The V-Series uses a supercharged 6.2L V8 rated at 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft.
- Display: a curved, pillar-to-pillar 55-inch display across the front of the cabin.
- Super Cruise: hands-free driver assistance comes standard with a 3-year OnStar plan.
- Audio: a standard 21-speaker AKG Studio system, with an available 38-speaker AKG Studio Reference system with Dolby Atmos.
An available Executive Second Row adds personal screens, tray tables and massaging seats for rear passengers. See the full feature list on our Escalade and Escalade ESV model page.
Size and Space Compared
| Measurement | Escalade | Escalade ESV |
|---|---|---|
| Overall length | 211.9 in | 226.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 121 in | 134 in |
| Third-row legroom | 34.9 in | 36.7 in |
| Cargo behind 3rd row | 25.5 cu ft | 41.5 cu ft |
| Cargo behind 2nd row | 72.9 cu ft | 94.1 cu ft |
| Maximum cargo | 120.5 cu ft | 142.2 cu ft |
| Max towing | 8,100 lbs | 8,000 lbs |
The ESV is 15 inches longer, and 13 of those inches go into the wheelbase. That gives third-row passengers almost two extra inches of legroom and adds 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. With all seats in use, the standard Escalade holds 25.5 cubic feet, while the ESV holds 41.5, enough for luggage for a full family trip.
Both versions seat up to eight, while V-Series models seat seven. Browse our new Cadillac inventory to see which configurations are on the lot.
What the extra space means on a road trip
Cargo numbers are easier to picture in real use. Behind the third row, the standard Escalade fits weekend bags and groceries, while the ESV has room for full-size suitcases with every seat filled. Fold the third row and the gap stays large: 72.9 cubic feet in the Escalade versus 94.1 in the ESV. With both rear rows folded, the ESV offers 142.2 cubic feet, about 22 more than the standard model.
Rear-Seat Comfort and the Executive Second Row
Both lengths offer the available Executive Second Row package, which turns the second row into a first-class cabin. It adds 12.6-inch personal screens, tray tables, a rear command center, massaging seats and headrest speakers, and it brings the AKG Studio Reference system up to 42 speakers. In the ESV, those second-row passengers also have more space behind them, since the longer body gives the third row extra legroom and keeps cargo room available.
The V-Series in either length
The Escalade-V is offered as both an Escalade and an ESV. Its supercharged 6.2L V8 makes 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque, and both versions seat seven. Towing is rated at 7,200 lbs for the Escalade-V and 7,000 lbs for the Escalade-V ESV.
Driving, Parking and Towing
The standard Escalade is easier to park
At 211.9 inches, the standard Escalade is the easier SUV to maneuver in a parking garage or a busy lot in Madison or Hampton Cove. The ESV is 226.9 inches long, about 18 feet 11 inches, so measure your garage before you decide.
Towing is nearly identical
Cadillac rates the Escalade to tow up to 8,100 lbs and the ESV up to 8,000 lbs when properly equipped. The V-Series models are rated at 7,200 lbs and 7,000 lbs. For most boats and campers, either length will do the job. If you are comparing the Escalade with other Cadillac SUVs, our guide to the Cadillac lineup covers every model.
The longer Escalade ESV. Image: Cadillac
Which Escalade Should You Choose?
Choose the Escalade if you:
- Want the easiest Escalade to park and garage
- Use the third row for shorter trips
- Want the highest towing rating
Choose the Escalade ESV if you:
- Carry adults in the third row often
- Need room for luggage with every seat in use
- Take long family road trips
Long highway trips are where both models shine. Super Cruise comes standard on every Escalade, so the drive to Nashville or the Gulf Coast can include stretches of hands-free driving on compatible roads, whichever length you choose.
Prefer electric power? The all-electric Escalade IQ and the longer Escalade IQL follow the same two-size idea. Once you have narrowed it down, our finance team can walk you through options on any Escalade, including for drivers coming from Decatur.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Escalade and Escalade ESV?
The Escalade ESV is 15 inches longer, with a 13-inch longer wheelbase, more third-row legroom and more cargo space. Both share the same engines, trims and technology.
How much longer is the Escalade ESV than the Escalade?
The ESV measures 226.9 inches long compared with 211.9 inches for the standard Escalade, a difference of 15 inches.
Do both Escalade models have Super Cruise?
Yes. Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance comes standard on both the Escalade and Escalade ESV, along with a 3-year OnStar plan.
How much can the Escalade and Escalade ESV tow?
Cadillac rates the Escalade at up to 8,100 lbs and the ESV at up to 8,000 lbs when properly equipped. V-Series models are rated at 7,200 lbs and 7,000 lbs.
Can I test drive both Escalade models at Bentley Cadillac?
Yes. Visit Bentley Cadillac at 2118 Drake Ave SW in Huntsville or call 256-207-8246 to schedule a side-by-side test drive.
Compare Both Escalades at Bentley Cadillac
The Cadillac Escalade vs. Escalade ESV decision comes down to how often you fill the third row and how much cargo you carry. The standard Escalade is easier to park and tows a little more, while the ESV gives every passenger more room and adds serious cargo space. Contact our team and we will have both ready for a side-by-side look in Huntsville.
