Ultimate Performance SUV: The 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V is 682 Horsepower, $150,000 Monster Machine
It's been close to 20 years since Cadillac debuted its first V-series vehicle, the 2004 CTS-V sedan. And in the years since the performance branding has moved to other Cadillac models and also grown to include the V-Sport and Blackwing variants.
Caddy's Strongest Combo
But it's not until now that Cadillac has finally combined its performance-minded "V" branding with the iconic Escalade SUV. Meet the first-ever 2023 Escalade-V.
There's no shortage of "performance-branded" SUVs out there these days, but the Escalade-V is a lot more than just some unique suspension tuning, wider tires and a bit more power under the hood.
A Luxury Rocket
To start, it's powered by a beefed-up version of GM's 6.2 liter supercharged V8 that makes 682 horsepower and 653 pound feet of torque.
The engine is mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission and sends power to all four wheels via a full-time AWD system with an electronic limited-slip differential.
Even with over 6,200 pounds to move, Cadillac says the Escalade-V will do zero to sixty in 4.4 seconds and run the quarter-mile in 12.74 seconds at 110 miles per hour.
While its unlikely many Escalade-V owners will be taking their SUVs to track days, Cadillac has also put a lot of work into the suspension and chassis.
Athletic, But Classy
Along with GM's proven Magneride 4.0 dampers. the Escalade-V also gets adjustable air suspension which can lower the ride height by .8 inches when the driver selects "V-mode". There are also six-piston Brembo brakes up front to bring the heavy SUV to a stop.
This all combined with all of the luxury appointments and in-cabin technology that Escalade buyers are accustomed to, including a curved 38" OLED display up front, 36-speaker audio system and massaging front seats.
On the outside, the look is actually fairly understated, with new 22" wheels, more aggressive V-Series front and rear fascias and quad exhaust outlets to set it apart from the standard Escalade.
As you might expect, if you want to put one of these luxury-laden, blown V8 SUVs in your garage you should be prepared to pay for it.
Cadillac says the 2023 Escalade-V will have a starting MSRP of $150,000 when it begins arriving in dealerships late this summer.
More From Driving Line
Want to see an Escalade done in a slightly different style? Check out this second gen EXT pickup upgraded with a set of Nitto Ridge Grapplers.
