Cadillac Escalade vs. Escalade ESV Comparison

When searching for the best three-row SUV, you’re likely to come across the Cadillac Escalade and the Cadillac Escalade ESV. The Escalade has long been known as a luxury powerhouse that can fit plenty of people in comfort and style. That said, there is some confusion around the differences between the Escalade and Escalade ESV. In this Escalade vs. Escalade ESV comparison guide, we’ll look at the differences and similarities between the two vehicles to help you decide which is right for you. 

Escalade vs. Escalade ESV: Specs 

Both the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV are powered by a mammoth 6.2L V-8 engine that delivers 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. However, for those who want even more power, both the Escalade and Escalade ESV trims come equipped with a supercharged version of the engine that delivers 682 horsepower. With the V-Series models, you can only choose four-wheel drive. For all other trims for both vehicles, you can choose between rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. All versions of the Escalade and Escalade ESV come with a 10-speed automatic transmission for smoother rides. 

One of the biggest differences between the two vehicles, despite having the same engine, is the max towing capacity. The Escalade can tow up to 8,200 lbs. when properly equipped; the Escalade ESV can only tow up to 8,000 lbs. because it weighs slightly more. Not a massive difference, but one worth noting.  

Escalade vs. Escalade ESV: Interior Space 

This is the biggest (no pun intended) difference between the Escalade and the Escalade ESV. In fact, the ESV standards for “Escalade stretch vehicle.” It’s much longer and has a longer wheelbase, which significantly increases the interior space. This is pretty impressive, considering the Escalade is already a massive vehicle.  

Both the Escalade and the Escalade ESV can fit up to eight passengers comfortably, but the ESV adds extra space, particularly in the third row. Here’s the total passenger volume for both vehicles:  

• Cadillac Escalade: 163.5 cubic feet 
• Cadillac Escalade ESV: 170.4 cubic feet 

While this illustrates that there’s more overall volume in the ESV, but it’s mainly to the benefit of passengers in the third row:  

• Cadillac third-row legroom: 34.9” 
• Cadillac ESV third-row legroom: 36.7” 

While just shy of two inches may not seem like a lot, the knees of the guests in the third row will thank you.  

Escalade vs. Escalade ESV: Cargo Capacity  

The extra length on the Escalade ESV really shines for the max cargo space. With all seats up in the Escalade, you’ll have 25.5 cubic feet of storage. The max storage of the Escalade comes in at a whopping 120.5 cubic feet. The Escalade ESV boasts an impressive 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, and 142.8 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down. If you have a friend moving, you’ll be the first one they call to ask for help in your vehicle. 

Escalade vs. Escalade ESV: Shared Features  

Beyond their size, the two vehicles are nearly identical in terms of features. Standard features on both vehicles include: 

• 38” curved OLED display spanning the full dash 
• Heated and ventilated front seats with massage 
• AKG Studio 19-speaker audio system 
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ 
• Tri-zone climate control 
• HD Surround Vision 
• Available rear-seat entertainment 
• And more 

They also share the same safety features, including:  

• Auto emergency braking 
• Forward collision alert 
• Lane assist 
• Front and rear parking assist 
• Available Super Cruise technology 
• And more 

Escalade vs. Escalade ESV: Which is Better? 

If you need the extra space, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade ESV is the right choice. However, if that large of a vehicle seems unwieldy, the Cadillac Escalade will serve you well on side streets as well as the highway. Still unsure which one is right for you? Visit Jim Hudson Cadillac today to explore both vehicles in person to see which one has the right space for you and your needs. Contact us today to get started or to schedule a test drive.