2015 Cadillac Escalade vs. Its Competition

Martin Padgett Editorial Director

While the Cadillac is unique in its truck-based capability at the upper end of the luxury SUV segment, there are several smart and seductive alternatives, including the GMC Yukon, an SUV so closely related to the Escalade in mechanical fundamentals, it makes the decision largely one of price and taste. The Mercedes-Benz GL Class may be the Escalade's closest natural competitor in terms of capability, and capacity.

It can also be configured to be either more efficient (though less powerful) in diesel form, or even more powerful (and luxurious) in AMG trim.

It's considerably smaller than the Escalade, though.

It's comparable to the Land Rover Range Rover--though the Range Rover doesn't even have a third-row seat, it has the Benz and 'Slade beat in heritage and in off-road prowess.

The Infiniti QX80--formerly the QX56--competes well enough in interior space, towing, and output with the Escalade, but it's a virtual unknown in this set, even before its recent name change. The aging Lincoln Navigator has, historically, been the Escalade's closest competitor.

Its more conservative look can be more appealing to some tastes, but it's of a different era when compared to the new offering from Cadillac.