The Cadillac Escalade was the brand's first full-size SUV when it debuted in 1998. Rapidly gaining a cult following thanks to the prevailing pop culture at the time, it remains an American icon and, for many, the default choice of luxury full-size SUV. Now on the fifth generation, each Escalade personifies the American ethos with acres of luxury and space. This 2020 Cadillac Escalade Platinum is a fine fourth-generation example and comes to you with 62,000 miles on the clock. It goes to show how the miles melt away once you're ensconced in its hushed cabin.

Exterior and Interior

Sitting on a set of silver chrome alloys, the white body of this 2020 Cadillac Escalade Platinum takes on an image of grace as it rolls by. The front sports a massive, chromed grille adorned with the Cadillac crest to leave no one in any doubt, as per this SUV's maker. While other SUV makers adopt curves and sculpted silhouettes, the Escalade focuses on a far simpler type of design language to maximize interior space. At the rear, tall smoked tail lamps are the dominating design feature, flanking a full-height tailgate. To appreciate this 2020 Cadillac Escalade Platinum, you've got to enter its luxurious black leather interior with dark wood trim, soft-touch surfaces, and plenty of tech toys. Let's start with the fully digital instrument cluster for the driver. There's multi-zone climate control that includes separate rear controls, as well as a rear seat entertainment system, phone charging, and HDMI ports for rear seat occupants. Looking further, you'll find a premium sound system, touchscreen infotainment system, power-folding rear seats, power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats, electronically lockable glove box, and even a power sunroof. A surround-view camera helps the driver position this large vehicle with appropriate precision.

Engine

For a formidable full-size SUV such as this 2020 Cadillac Escalade Platinum, you need a potent powertrain. Cadillac thus endowed it with a 6.2-liter V8 that puts out 420hp and 460lb-ft to the wheels via a 10-speed GM Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Large ventilated disc brakes maintain ample stopping capabilities, and Magnetic Ride Control ensures a supple ride.