When an automaker launches a redesigned model or new vehicle, it’s not uncommon for top-level executives to offer statements to the press. But, when the CEO of GM recently spoke about her enthusiasm for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, there was genuine excitement in her comments. We took a closer look at what else Mary Barra had to say about Cadillac’s crown jewel in a recent MotorTrend feature.

When CEO’s get excited, we do too

GM’s CEO, Mary Barra, recently talked to MotorTrend about her excitement for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade. She is a personal fan of the big SUV and told MT that the world could expect a ‘next level’ status from Cadillac. She didn’t provide all the details just yet but did say technology and styling alone will be ultra-impressive. To Barra, and most everyone else, the Escalade is kind of in a class all its own.

A star-studded launch

When can the world get a sneak peek of this beauty? The world premiere for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade will be February 4th in Beverly Hills, California, for Oscar night. We’ll catch our first glimpse of the Escalade on the red carpet.

Sources are saying that some celebrities will be in full Oscar attire and escorted by Cadillac’s shiny new Escalade. Viewers watching the televised awards show will see four new commercials, filling us in on all that Escalade has to offer.

Here’s what we know about the 2021 Cadillac Escalade

We won’t know all the details until the official unveiling, but there are a few specs we can share. Allcarnews.com shared that there will be an updated version of the 6.2L V8 standard powertrain.

Paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission, consumers will harness 420 horses. We know it will also have Cadillac’s Super Cruise, for hands-free highway driving. We found some sources suggesting the cabin will be completely distinct from Escalade’s GM siblings, Tahoe and Suburban.

Can you imagine having overlapping digital displays? It’s hard to say this early, just how much this beauty will cost. However, it’s likely there will be a significant increase over the 2019 base price of $76,490.

The stage is set for an Escalade wow-factor

Cadillac President Steve Carlisle talks about Escalade’s success in closing out 2019 as a top-seller in its class. Since Lincoln introduced its new Navigator and considering we’ve had a look at 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, Escalade has some big shoes to fill.

We’ve uncovered some tantalizing details thus far, including a new independent rear suspension, smart interior upgrade, more room for people and things, and superb handling. There’s no question, 2021 is going to be a big year for Escalade.

Wait, did he say electric?

GM’s President Carlisle continued to comment about GM’s mission to embrace full-electric versions of its vehicles. Aside from recognizing their belief in transitioning to an all-electric future, she didn’t want to comment beyond that.

We don’t anticipate an electric Escalade anytime soon, and certainly not for 2021. However, there could be EV generations of large SUVs in the next decade. They might bear entirely new names altogether too.

While we only have juicy tidbits of hints and ideas for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade now, come February, we’ll have our official introduction. We know we can expect all the bling, both on the red carpet and in the entourage of Escalades chaperoning the celebs.

We know the new commercials airing during the event will show us everything we’re dying to see. After all, it’s Cadillac. No one does ‘go big or go home’ better than Escalade.