Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, the extended-length version of Cadillac's iconic luxury SUV. If you're in the market for a vehicle that offers space, luxury, and presence, the Escalade ESV is likely on your radar. But with a hefty price tag, it's essential to know if it truly lives up to the hype. So, let's buckle up and explore everything this beast has to offer, from its opulent interior and cutting-edge technology to its performance and practicality. We'll break down the pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision about whether the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is the right fit for your needs and lifestyle. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The Cadillac Escalade ESV 2022 is not just an SUV; it's a statement. The ESV, or Extended Stretch Vehicle, takes everything you love about the standard Escalade and stretches it out, adding extra cargo space and legroom, especially for those in the third row. This makes it an ideal choice for large families or anyone who frequently hauls a lot of gear. Think road trips with the whole crew, sports equipment, or even that antique armoire you scored at the flea market.

Under the hood, you typically find a powerful engine, often a 6.2-liter V8, delivering robust performance and impressive towing capacity. There's also a diesel option available for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. Inside, the Escalade ESV is dripping in luxury, with premium leather, wood trim, and meticulously crafted details. The centerpiece is often a massive, curved OLED display that spans the dashboard, offering crisp graphics and intuitive controls. Technology is at the forefront, with features like Super Cruise (Cadillac's hands-free driving system), advanced safety features, and a state-of-the-art infotainment system. Of course, all this luxury and capability comes at a price, placing the Escalade ESV firmly in the upper echelon of the SUV market. But for those who demand the best and need the space to match, it's a compelling option.

Exterior Design and Features

The exterior design of the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is bold, imposing, and instantly recognizable. The sheer size of the ESV is the first thing that grabs your attention, its extended length giving it a commanding presence on the road. The front fascia is dominated by Cadillac's signature grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that accentuate the vehicle's modern and sophisticated look. Chrome accents are strategically placed to add a touch of elegance and highlight the Escalade's premium status. The long, flowing lines of the body create a sense of motion, while the sharply creased surfaces add a touch of aggression. Large wheels, typically ranging from 22 to 22 inches, fill the wheel wells, further enhancing the Escalade's muscular stance.

Moving to the rear, the iconic vertical LED taillights are a defining feature, instantly identifying the Escalade from afar. The power liftgate provides easy access to the cavernous cargo area, and the hands-free operation is a welcome convenience. The panoramic sunroof, available on higher trims, allows natural light to flood the cabin, creating an open and airy feel. From a functional standpoint, the Escalade ESV offers features like power-retractable running boards, making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle, and a trailer hitch for those who need to tow. Overall, the exterior design of the 2022 Escalade ESV is a masterful blend of luxury, power, and sophistication, making it a true head-turner wherever it goes. The attention to detail is evident in every line and curve, reflecting Cadillac's commitment to craftsmanship and design excellence.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is like entering a sanctuary of luxury and technology. The cabin is meticulously crafted with premium materials, including supple leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and brushed metal accents. The seats are incredibly comfortable, offering ample support and cushioning for long journeys. Higher trims feature massaging front seats, adding an extra layer of pampering. The extended wheelbase of the ESV translates to generous legroom in all three rows, making it comfortable for adults to sit in the back. The second-row seats can be configured as either a bench or captain's chairs, depending on your preference.

But the real showstopper is the massive, curved OLED display that dominates the dashboard. This screen is actually comprised of three separate displays: a 16.9-inch infotainment screen, a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 7.2-inch control panel to the driver's left. The graphics are crisp and vibrant, and the system is incredibly responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. The Escalade ESV also boasts a premium sound system, typically a AKG Studio Reference system with 36 speakers, delivering immersive audio quality. Other tech features include a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 12.6-inch displays, a head-up display that projects information onto the windshield, and a wireless charging pad for your smartphone. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Escalade ESV is a masterclass in luxury and technology, providing a comfortable, connected, and engaging experience for both the driver and passengers.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV doesn't disappoint. The standard engine is a robust 6.2-liter V8, producing around 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power for confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising. The Escalade ESV can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, which is quite impressive for such a large vehicle. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, a 3.0-liter Duramax diesel engine is also available, offering a good balance of power and economy. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its size, the Escalade ESV handles surprisingly well. The independent rear suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. Available features like Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride Adaptive Suspension further enhance the ride quality, automatically adjusting the suspension to road conditions. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver the Escalade ESV in tight spaces. However, it's important to remember that this is a large vehicle, and it won't handle like a sports car. Body roll is noticeable in corners, and the brakes require a firm press to bring the Escalade ESV to a stop. But overall, the 2022 Escalade ESV offers a comfortable and capable driving experience, making it well-suited for long road trips and daily commutes alike. The powerful engine and smooth transmission provide effortless performance, while the advanced suspension systems ensure a comfortable and controlled ride.

Cargo Space and Practicality

One of the primary reasons to choose the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV over the standard Escalade is its superior cargo space and practicality. The ESV's extended length translates to a significantly larger cargo area behind the third row of seats. With all seats in place, the ESV offers a generous 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough to accommodate several suitcases or a large grocery run. When the third-row seats are folded down, the cargo space expands to a cavernous 81.5 cubic feet. And with both the second and third rows folded, the Escalade ESV boasts a maximum cargo capacity of 142.8 cubic feet, making it one of the most spacious SUVs on the market.

In addition to its impressive cargo capacity, the Escalade ESV also offers a number of practical features that enhance its usability. The power liftgate provides easy access to the cargo area, and the hands-free operation is a welcome convenience. The available power-folding third-row seats make it easy to reconfigure the interior to accommodate passengers and cargo. The Escalade ESV also offers plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and seatback pockets. With its ample cargo space, comfortable seating, and practical features, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is an ideal choice for large families, road trips, and anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear.

Pricing and Trims

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is a premium SUV, and its pricing reflects that. The base price typically starts around $80,000, but it can quickly climb well into the six-figure range depending on the trim level and options you choose. Cadillac offers the Escalade ESV in a variety of trims, each with its own unique features and equipment. The base trim, typically called the Luxury, offers a generous array of standard features, including leather upholstery, a curved OLED display, and a suite of advanced safety technologies. Moving up to the Premium Luxury trim adds features like a panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and enhanced safety features. The Sport trim offers a more aggressive appearance with black exterior accents and unique wheels. The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering the ultimate in luxury and features, including massaging front seats, semi-aniline leather upholstery, and a premium sound system.

In addition to the trim levels, you can also customize the Escalade ESV with a variety of optional features and packages. These include things like Super Cruise (Cadillac's hands-free driving system), adaptive cruise control, a night vision system, and a trailer towing package. It's important to carefully consider your needs and budget when choosing the right trim level and options for your Escalade ESV. While the higher trims offer more luxury and features, they also come with a significantly higher price tag. It's also worth noting that the Escalade ESV holds its value relatively well, so you can expect to recoup a good portion of your investment when you eventually sell or trade it in.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV to help you make a decision:

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The ESV offers ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for large families or those who need to haul a lot of gear.
• Luxurious Features: The cabin is filled with premium materials and advanced technology, providing a comfortable and engaging experience.
• Powerful Engine: The V8 engine delivers confident acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
• Smooth Ride: The independent rear suspension and available Magnetic Ride Control provide a comfortable and controlled ride.
• Head-Turning Design: The Escalade ESV's bold and imposing design is sure to turn heads wherever you go.

Cons:

• High Price Tag: The Escalade ESV is one of the most expensive SUVs on the market.
• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is not a strong point, especially with the V8 engine.
• Large Size: The Escalade ESV can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Reliability: Cadillac's reliability ratings have been mixed in recent years.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV Worth It?

So, after this in-depth review of the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV, is it worth the investment? The answer, as with most things, depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you need a large, luxurious SUV with plenty of space for passengers and cargo, and you're willing to pay a premium for it, then the Escalade ESV is definitely worth considering. It offers a compelling combination of comfort, technology, and performance. However, if you're on a tight budget or prioritize fuel economy, there are other SUVs on the market that may be a better fit. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2022 Cadillac Escalade ESV is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see for yourself. Consider your needs, weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision based on your own personal preferences.