2015 Cadillac Escalade gets detailed, goes on sale shortly

Pricing starts at $71,695

Cadillac is gearing up for the launch of the 2015 Escalade by releasing new details about the range-topping model.

Set to go on sale shortly, the 2015 Escalade features an evolutionary design with a "Galvano" chrome grille that is flanked by LED headlights. The model also comes equipped with side steps and 20-inch aluminum wheels. If the standard model isn't big enough, the ESV variant has a 14-inch (355 mm) longer wheelbase.

The upscale styling continues in the cabin as the Escalade comes nicely equipped with a heated wood / leather steering wheel and American Walnut, Natural Finish Elm or Santos Palisander wood trim. The model also boasts a power tilt / telescoping steering column, tri-zone climate, ambient lighting and fold-flat second- and third-row seats. Speaking of the seats, the front seats are heated and cooled while the second row offers seat heating as standard equipment. Other notable highlights include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a CUE infotainment system and a push-button ignition.

Power is provided by a 6.2-liter V8 engine that develops 420 bhp (313 kW) and 460 lb-ft (623) of torque. It is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission which enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Escalade returns an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway (14 mpg city / 21 mpg highway with four-wheel drive).

Source: GM