2007 Cadillac Escalade: A Reborn Icon Arrives In Europe - VIDEO ENHANCED

The second-generation of the Cadillac Escalade luxury SUV will go on sale in Europe in the third quarter of 2006.

Click4Video of driving scenes.

Click4Video of Escalade's interior.

GENEVA – February 27, 2006: The Cadillac Escalade is regarded as an inspirational nameplate in the American automotive industry. The original Escalade marked the start of Cadillac’s product renaissance in the USA and attracts the youngest American customers in the Cadillac portfolio of automobiles. The new model marks a continuation of that renaissance.

Based on General Motors’ all-new full-size SUV architecture, the second-generation Escalade features new power-train, chassis, safety and interior systems. These are led by a new 6.2L all-aluminum V-8 engine with variable valve timing technology, delivering 301 kW (403 hp SAE)* and 565 Nm of torque.

Sleeker, cleaner styling The new Escalade has all-new sheet metal with sleeker, cleaner styling and improved aerodynamics, yet it remains instantly identifiable. Larger, standard 18-inch wheels and optional chrome 18 -inch wheels are tailored to fit the wheel openings, creating a precise wheel-to-body relationship which gives Escalade a lowered stance.

Escalade also incorporates styling cues from the Cadillac Sixteen concept vehicle, including layers of chrome accents and a signature egg-crate grille flanked by halogen headlamps. Rear-end styling is equally distinctive, highlighted by chrome accents and LED tail lamps.

“The new Escalade represents the next phase of Cadillac’s product renaissance – a renaissance that was launched by the previous-generation Escalade,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “Since its inception, Escalade has been an icon – the vehicle customers aspire to own. The new model raises the bar with exceptional exterior style, interior refinement, increased performance and enhanced ride and handling smoothness.”

Distinctive design The new Escalade has a lower stance; sleeker, cleaner and more athletic in form with improved aerodynamics. The sleeker windshield angle of 57 degrees, flows gracefully into the roofline and improves aerodynamic performance to a 0.363 coefficient of drag, helping improve fuel economy and reduce wind noise.

All the major body components are new, and feature crisp, taut lines. Details in elements such as wraparound fascias, styled mirrors and integrated running boards enhance Escalade’s flowing design and bolster an increased feeling of refinement.

The new Escalade remains instantly identifiable and incorporates styling cues from the landmark Sixteen concept vehicle, including a more detailed egg-crate grille with detailed chrome elements and a prominent wreath-and-crest insignia.

Larger seven-spoke aluminum wheels, with standard 18-inch and available chrome finish 18-inch wheels, are tailored to fit the wheel openings. This precise wheel-to-body relationship gives Escalade a more athletic presence and lowered stance. The sides of the vehicle look fresh and clean with new doors, a single-piece window surround and seven layers of chrome accents. Rear-end styling also is distinct and is highlighted by LED tail lamps, LED-lit center high-mount stop light (CHMSL), chrome accents and an integrated trailer hitch cover.

Refined, spacious interior All-new interior styling is a cornerstone of the new Escalade, with premium materials and a distinct layout not shared with any other GM full-size SUV. The cabin also is more spacious, with an instrument panel that is lower and moved forward in the vehicle. This warm and inviting interior comes in two colors: Ebony and Cashmere.

Escalade’s instrumentation features gauges with white needles and blue light inlays with continuously lit, white-LED backlighting. They are complemented by the use of new, softer and low-gloss materials for the instrument panel and other trim pieces. Flush-mounted controls and radios, with almost imperceptible gaps, convey precision and integration.

The harmonious color and grain of the materials were carefully selected to provide a premium feel as well as durability for the nuance leather-covered seats, leather-covered door trim and center console, and fabric-covered interior pillars.

Attention to detail Attention to detail is evident throughout the vehicle. There is no visible hardware to greet occupants when the doors are opened and no exposed fasteners or hardware on the pillars, seats or seat tracks. The seats have “close-outs” that surround the seat bottoms and seat tracks, creating a more finished appearance. Fasteners and hardware are also covered when the seats are folded.

Greater fore/aft front seat travel provides 1049 mm of legroom for front-seat passengers. Second-row seat legroom and knee room, and third-row seat headroom are also increased over the previous model. The second- and third-row seats also have more shoulder room – a feat accomplished while also offering standard roof-mounted head curtain side airbags.

*European horsepower ratings are 409 hp (PS)