I think Escalate, as well as Tahoe or Yukon are very solid cars. But it depends like on every car on driving style, care, maintenance and operating and environmental conditions. If vehicle A is used in the snow and mud as a draft horse in the forest, is never cleaned and maintained, it will certainly not last as long as vehicle B, which is always dry, regularly serviced and lovingly cared for. If you take care of these vehicles, face the beginnings of rust on the frame, and drive moderately, Escalate are grateful vehicles that are good for many kilometers and, above all, can be repaired relatively easily, if you compare with the overengeeniered German Bullshit after 2000.... I am allowed to tell, i am German and I worked for the car Industrie...
Agreed. 2006 Escalade. Bought at 275K? And just rolled 317K. Seats + Cadillac famous suspension makes for the most comfortable ride I’ve ever felt. Now when I drink and get in UBERs /LYFTs I legit feel like I’m in a 1890s covered wagon. Even taxiing only 30mph in airplanes is disappointing after the butter soft ride of the Cadillac.
Power? A beast. It hasn’t lost any horses. 0-60 in 6.5 seconds (I have the third row taken out). Hits 120 like it’s a joke. Ofc it’s not a corvette, but for its size especially its amazing.
Mileage? Terrible. But you already knew that. It’s smiles per gallon. Plus be honest. Who buys a Cadillac Escalade and actually worries about the cost of gas. I’m 13.9 mpg. I drive about 70% highway 30% stop n go.
Road presence? It’s undeniably beautiful from its lines to its wheels (I got the 22 inch, sacrificed a little comfort for a huge look upgrade). It mixes raw manly-ness with feminine elegance (I’m woke, don’t call me sexist 😆). Truck guys? Have to give the hat tip. She’s 3 tons and powerful and large. Country club ladies? Thirsty for its features and amenities. Old, young, white, black, rich, poor, bankers, gangsters, literally it appeals to everyone.
People literally move to the right lane when they see your grill approaching in their rear view mirror. The only hate you’ll get is (1) people jealous of it and (2) people who hate all larger vehicles.
Repairs: both tie-rods. $390 each out the door (parts /service). And each failed within a month of the other. Original transmission died at 305K. Swapped in a new for $3,400 out the door part/service. Rear brake pads. $200.
Verdict? I’m in for only $8.5K (purchase price + repairs), and I have a powerful, iconic vehicle with first class ride quality (I’ve never felt better) and a “new” tranny that should last another 150 to 250k. I’m not going to be surprised when I (fingers crossed) roll 400K. And I don’t baby her either. She can take a lot. She’s officially preferred to my former love of Expeditions (had 3) and Jeep GC (had 1).
So unless you’re actually going to off road, get a used Escalade in already good condition and spend a little on the inevitable upkeep and repairs. You likely won’t be disappointed.