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Buy this Ford vs Ferrari GT40 Movie CarNew vs Used: Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade receives a refresh for 2021 and comes packed with the latest GM tech GM, but is it worth the premium over a used 2018 model?
Redesigned and Better Than Ever
Now entering its fifth generation, the Cadillac Escalade is completely redesigned for 2021, and it brings a number of improvements to the plate. Not to mention, it features a few firsts for GM’s luxury icon in the name of an independent rear suspension and an optional diesel powerplant.
The new Escalade is clearly better all-around than its predecessor, not to mention a serious contender for 2021’s best full-size luxury SUV. However, it is not cheap, with a starting price of $76,000 that can top $120,000 when fully optioned.
Suffice to say, you can save a sizeable chunk of change if you are willing to look back a few years and forsake the latest and greatest. With that said, is the all-new Cadillac Escalade worth the premium over its used older sibling? Let’s find out.
New vs Used Cadillac Escalade Specs
For comparison’s sake, we’ll choose a 2018 Cadillac Escalade as this was halfway through the previous generation, and there were no significant changes until the fifth generation debuted in 2021. Likewise, both models are equipped with the same 420-horsepower 6.2L V8 engine paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
However, for 2021 a 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel is now available as a no-cost option. While its 277 horsepower trails the V8 by a good margin, both engines are rated at 460 lb-ft of torque with a similar 8,000 lb towing capacity. However, the diesel offers a sizable edge in fuel economy with rear-wheel-drive models reaching EPA estimates of 21/27/23 (city/highway/combined) versus 15/20/17 respectively for the gas powered V8. Four-wheel-drive variants average about a mpg less for either version.
Driving & Performance
Since they have an identical engine and transmission pairing, their performance figures are about the same. While the V8’s output has been surpassed by some of its rivals, it is still potent enough to propel the three-ton Cadillac Escalade from 0-60 mph in a respectable 6.5 seconds. Likewise, there are no complaints about highway merging and passing with plenty of power to get the job done in short order.
On the other hand, the turbo-diesel six-cylinder is a noticeable step back in terms of acceleration. However, most people who opt for this powerplant are interested in the savings at the pump as opposed to winning a drag race.
Where they differ is ride quality, with the truck-like live axle being swapped out in favor of a fully independent rear suspension (IRS). Simply put, it does a better job of soaking up road imperfections with better handling to boot. In addition, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade can be optioned with an improved version of GM’s semi-autonomous Super Cruise driving system, which is regarded as one of the best examples of semi-autonomous driving in the industry.
Interior & Comfort
Suffice to say, luxury and comfort are the Cadillac Escalade’s strong suits regardless of the year. The front chairs for both new and used models are comfortable, with the top trims adding massaging seats. As for cabin space, the Cadillac was already one of the roomiest SUVs you could buy, although the transition to an IRS adds some extra third-row legroom and cargo space.
On the tech side, the traditional instrument cluster and infotainment center have been replaced with some high-tech and nifty-looking OLED panels. Not only are they visually pleasing, but they are more responsive with little lag. It is worth mentioning the new 2021 Cadillac Escalade is among a select few to offer this tech and the only one to do so as standard fare. For the audiophiles, a 36, yes 36-speaker premium AKG audio system can be added and comes standard on the Premium Luxury and Sport Platinum trims.
While both the new and used Cadillac Escalade models represent the best GM has to offer for their respective years, three years and a new generation can make a difference.
Trims & Features
For 2018, our used Cadillac Escalade option was offered in four trims with the following standard features: heated and ventilated leather seats, tri-zone climate control, a 16-speaker Bose audio system, and an 8-inch touch screen infotainment system. In addition, all 2018 and 2021 Escalades can be optioned with 4WD and an extended-length ESV version.
Moving up one level from the base model, the mid-level Luxury package adds a sunroof and a few driver assistance and safety features. In addition, the Cadillac can be optioned with a rear-seat entertainment system. The higher-tier Premium Luxury includes most of the lower trim’s options while adding adaptive cruise control and many more safety features. Sitting at the top is the fully loaded Platinum, which includes just about every available option. Not to mention plenty of creature comforts in the name of premium leather materials, 18-way adjustable massaging front seats, and a rear entertainment system with dual 7″ displays.
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade’s trim levels are not much different, and they include many of the same features. In addition, some features like forward collision warning and auto-dimming headlights are now standard. The most notable upgrades are the infotainment center with a 16.9″ OLED panel and the 19-speaker AKG audio system. In addition, a heads-up display, night vision camera, Super Cruise, and premium AKG audio join the options list. Lastly, a pair of sports packages that mirror the Premium Luxury and Platinum are now offered. They add a few trim accents and different wheels.
The Verdict: New or Used Cadillac Escalade?
There is no denying that the 2021Cadillac Escalade is simply better in just about every category. It is roomier, has more tech and safety features, interior space, and offers a smoother ride. In addition, there are new options like Super Cruise, a 36-speaker sound system, and a six-cylinder turbo diesel. Lastly, there is no getting around the premium look of the OLED displays.
While the newer model is more refined than its predecessor, the used Cadillac Escalade has a sizeable edge in one category, price. Luxury vehicles are notorious for not holding their value, and the Escalade is no exception. Keeping that in mind, a well-optioned 2021 Cadillac Escalade will set you back $90,000-$100,000. On the other hand, a used 2018 model with less than 50,000 miles typically goes for around $55,000-$75,000 depending on the condition, trim, and options.
With that said, neither are bad choices, and it ultimately comes down to preferences. For those that can afford the premium, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is without a doubt a more refined vehicle. However, for sizable savings, a three-year-old used Cadillac Escalade has plenty of creature comforts, luxury, and shares the same drivetrain (sans the diesel).
As for which is better, you can save a good $20,000-$30,000 by going used and have a reasonably new luxury SUV. At the same time, you can go for the best, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade. As for which is better, we’ll let you (and your budget) decide.
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