The Cadillac Escalade is Getting A Much Needed Power Boost
The Cadillac Escalade is finally getting more power. With a luxury SUV, you need more than just an excellent interior and tech. It needs to be fast and sporty too. So, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade is addressing this need for speed.
The 2022 Cadillac Escalade gets a supercharger
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade comes with a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine that provides 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. This doesn’t sound bad, but this amount of power is average for the class. The Chevy Suburban also provides 420 hp, so why go for the Escalade?
According to Edmunds, the Escalade can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. This matches the speed of rivals, but Edmunds mentioned that it’s not potent enough. While having ample power to pass people on the highway, the transmission can have abrupt shifts, and they wouldn’t call the Escalade sporty.
But, according to Auto Blog, the Escalade is getting a supercharger. This could increase the amount of horsepower it has from 420 hp to between 600 to 625 hp. That’s a lot of extra giddy-up.
What comes with the Escalade supercharger?
The V8 may not need modifications to handle extra power because the supercharger kit will be installed by dealerships, not in the assembly line. This could mean that the Cadillac Escalade will gain a bolt-on job.
Otherwise, it would require taking the engine out and apart to install stronger forged pistons and stronger connecting rods. But so far, bigger brakes and a firmer suspension won’t be included with the package.
However, the body-on-frame beast may become more agile and much quicker. This would improve the driving experience that Edmunds was underwhelmed by. But they did mention that it has a smooth ride, and parking doesn’t feel like a chore.
Other models that may get the supercharger include the Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban, and GMC Yukon/XL. The pricing this package hasn’t been announced yet, but to increase horsepower by 200, it won’t be cheap.
2021 Cadillac features
Aside from the adequate driving experience, the Cadillac Escalade is a pretty nice luxury option. It begins around $76,195, so prepare your bank account. In terms of comfort, Edmunds mentions that it’s behind rivals. The seats don’t feel as supportive rival options, but they won’t have you complaining either.
The tech feels extremely advanced with the sleek digital cluster display and infotainment center that include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But a lot of the features like lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control don’t come standard.
The Caddy has excellent cargo space with plantly of pockets and bins to store all your items. Plus, each row has seats large enough for adults, and when properly equipped, the Escalade can tow up to 8,200 lb.
Overall, the Cadillac Escalade feels adequate compared to rivals. The interior looks and feels great but isn’t as refined as the top dogs, such as the Mercedes GLS. It is comfortable and fun to drive but doesn’t outshine rivals in any particular area. However, the supercharger could change things.
