RUMOR: Cadillac's Fifth-gen Escalade Is Slated For 2021 MY Debut — What Does It NEED To SUCCEED?

One full-size sport-utility vehicle that finds itself home in many high net worth areas is General Motors' Cadillac Escalade. The SUV of choice among the elite, it's just as synonymous with school pick up lines and soccer practice as the Land Rover Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class.

But, will that continue?

There's a greater amount of three-row competition than ever and the sector is dialing up the pressure. While the Escalade has done well given its rather outdated approach to technology and design, a fifth-gen product is on the way.

There's just one problem: It's still a ways off. Initial thinking was that it would launch for the 2020 model year. Turns out that was wrong.

The latest reports are pointing to the 2021 model year.

Having said that, we've got to ask: With the increased competition, what does the Cadillac Escalade NEED to SUCCEED for the fifth-generation product's launch?

We previously had reason to believe that the all-new, fifth-generation Cadillac Escalade would launch for the 2020 model year. However, new information has come to light suggesting that Cadillac’s range-topping utility will launch for the 2021 model year, instead.

That much is according to sources familiar with future Cadillac product plans speaking to Cadillac Society on the basis of anonymity...

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MDarringer - 5/20/2019 8:26:34 AM

-1 Boost

They just need to stick with the formula.

It must have commanding styling that looks new. I'd love for the Escalade NOT to share a body with the Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon, but to have its own body.

The IRS will be a major improvement. We love our Escalade, but it is a bit "hoppy" on bad pavement.

They need to stick with V8s and not do something asinine like a turbo 4 as in the Chevy Craparado.

TomM - 5/20/2019 4:39:08 PM

+1 Boost

We already know that the Escalade will not have its own platform or body - but that does not mean it cannot be different than the others that use the same ones.

While the IRS will undoubtedly be a major change - something LONG overdue - I wonder how many BUYERS will even know the difference. I wonder if the new V-8 will be included though.

Recent messaging indicates that Cadillac is returning more toward the "LUXURY" side of the equation- and that might signal better interiors.

MDarringer - 5/20/2019 6:32:56 PM

-2 Boost

If you drive a Navigator back-to-back with an Escalade, the Navigator is much better. That's how apparent it is.

Truthy - 5/20/2019 9:19:02 AM

+4 Boost

It is the most Cadillac vehicle. Bold styling, a name, a V-8. Add IRS and up to date technology. If they want to introduce something unibody to compete with the large MB and BMW Suvs, introduce something underneath the Escalade. This is what I thought the XT6 was supposed to be.

bmw7er - 5/20/2019 10:08:40 AM

+1 Boost

I hate the current Escalade. The third row seats are absolutely ridiculous compared to the Navigator. Making the third row comfortable for adults is #1 for me. Then the seats in the second row feel like they are made of cardboard in my 2016. Hitting bumps and the seat back bounces in and out making a bowing noise. That has to change. All of GM's cheap plastic has to be covered with leather and anything from the new Silverado interior better not make it to the Cadillac. I've always hated the tall break lights that look like bunny ears, and the side profile that looks like a hearse especially in black.

Truthy - 5/20/2019 10:37:55 AM

+2 Boost

Unfortunately GM will continue to use hard cheap plastics to save costs. GM is typically behind the curve on interior quality and I do not see any change in their approach.

dtmwtch - 5/20/2019 1:20:13 PM

+1 Boost

my 09 land cruiser is far superior to a new escalade after driving both

greGARYous1 - 5/20/2019 1:37:22 PM

+2 Boost

Early research n focus group response showed the new Slade was not good enough n Navigator Black Label was superior...

Back to the drawing boards because typical GM "good enough" was not good enough...
Revised interior needs 6-9 month fix... Delay!!!

Swagg - 5/22/2019 4:33:12 PM

+1 Boost

Well its good they are taking there time to really make sure that up the ante with the new Escalade.

skytop - 5/20/2019 1:55:34 PM

-1 Boost

It cannot resemble the current Escalade with looks like a common boring pimp-mobile.

MDarringer - 5/20/2019 7:26:21 PM

-2 Boost

Dumbass, that's why it appeals to people and sells well.

cidflekken - 5/20/2019 2:24:30 PM

+3 Boost

I agree with sticking to the current formula and just make improvements from there. It is, IMO, the most cohesively handsome large SUV with the right amount of tasteful design elements while remaining a bit showy. The 3rd row is lame, but it hasn't detracted from sales.

Section_31_JTK - 5/20/2019 5:55:49 PM

+2 Boost

How about keeping the price below the $100k mark? These things are not worth anywhere near that kind of money when you consider you could have a Mercedes GLS for the same amount.

MDarringer - 5/20/2019 7:25:50 PM

-1 Boost

The GLS cannot do what an Escalade can so the comparison is apples to oranges.

Swagg - 5/22/2019 4:36:27 PM

+1 Boost

It better be Perfect. Cadillac doesn't have a choice because the Escalade has to continue to set the tone for down market SUV sales within the Cadillac portfolio.