5 Best 2021 Cadillac Escalade Configurations That’ll Blow Your Mind
The Ultimate Guide to the 2021 Escalade Trims
When it comes to luxury SUVs the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is the kingpin on the road. With its bold look premium features and top-tier technology this large luxury SUV stands out among its rivals like the Lincoln Navigator and the BMW X7. But deciding which trim to pick can be overwhelming. Well you’re in the right place. Here we’re diving deep into the configurations of the 2021 Escalade so buckle up and let’s hit the road.
What's New for 2021?
The 2021 Escalade is a completely redesigned model marking the fifth generation of Cadillac’s full-size SUV lineup. Cadillac has amped up everything in this luxury beast from an all-new OLED curved display for a more immersive driving experience to a fully independent rear suspension for a smoother ride. But let’s get to the juicy part—the trims.
2021 Cadillac Escalade Trims: Your Guide to the Best Pick
Overview of Configurations
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade comes in five main trims: Luxury Premium Luxury Sport Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum. And yes if you think it sounds like they all have "luxury" in the name well Cadillac is being consistent here. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Luxury (Base)
- Premium Luxury
- Sport
- Premium Luxury Platinum
- Sport Platinum
Each trim has its unique perks so let’s go deeper into each one so you can figure out which Escalade fits your taste, budget, and lifestyle.
Luxury (Base Trim) - The Intro to Escalade Bliss
Main Features
The Luxury trim is the entry-level configuration but don’t let that term fool you—it's still loaded with all kinds of fancy features. This trim includes:
- 6.2-liter V8 engine that gives a hefty 420 horsepower
- A 10-speed automatic transmission to smooth out gear changes
- OLED display screens that combine for over 38 inches of digital space
- Heated front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control
- Driver-assist features like lane-keep assist forward-collision warning and pedestrian detection
- The legendary Cadillac grille
Drawbacks with a Twist of Humor
Sure the Luxury trim is a great starting point but you might feel like you’re driving around with the “lite” version of an Escalade. Think of it as buying a basic latte at Starbucks—sure it’s still a latte but deep down you’re eyeing that extra whipped cream.
"Honestly it feels like they call this 'Luxury' because they can" jokes Alex Collantes a Cadillac enthusiast who’s driven every Escalade model since 2000. "But hey if you’re just in it for the looks and basic Cadillac swagger this one’s your jam."
Premium Luxury - Stepping Up Your Game
Key Features
The Premium Luxury trim is where things start to feel extra posh. You get everything from the Luxury model plus:
- Panoramic sunroof for those sweet starry-night drives
- Magnetic Ride Control suspension for smoother handling
- Enhanced safety features like lane-change alert blind-spot monitoring and rear pedestrian alert
- An automatic seat belt tightening feature because apparently your regular seat belt isn't secure enough
- Soft-close doors for that effortless VIP entry and exit
Drawbacks with Humor Included
The Premium Luxury trim is like adding sprinkles to your ice cream cone—it’s flashy but not necessarily functional. The soft-close doors feel more like they’re designed to give your chauffeur an easier life than add anything to your driving experience.
"Soft-close doors are cool until you're in a hurry and forget they're soft-close then you're basically fighting with your own door" quips Alex. "But man that panoramic sunroof does make you feel like you’re driving a spaceship."
Sport - The "Performance" Luxury Trim
Main Highlights
Here’s where the Sport trim stands out: it gives the Escalade a sleeker more aggressive look. Think blacked-out grille monochromatic trims and other sporty touches. Performance-wise you get:
- Performance-tuned suspension for sharper handling
- Rear limited-slip differential which really kicks things up a notch for stability
- 22-inch alloy wheels with a unique finish
- Black exterior accents because we all know black is always stylish
Drawbacks - With a Smile
The Sport trim is like wearing a leather jacket to an opera—it looks cool but it kinda makes you wonder if it’s necessary. The performance-tuned suspension makes you feel sporty but then you remember this is still a three-ton luxury SUV.
"Honestly you feel like Batman until you hit the brakes and realize you're still in a tank" laughs Alex. "But those black accents make you feel like you’re driving the Escalade’s evil twin which is just cool."
Premium Luxury Platinum - The Fully Loaded Dream
Top Features
If you want the all-you-can-eat buffet of features the Premium Luxury Platinum is the way to go. It takes everything from the Premium Luxury and adds:
- Semi-aniline leather seats with 16-way power adjustability
- Massaging front seats because you deserve a massage while driving
- AKG Studio Reference Sound System with a whopping 36 speakers
- Real wood trim and sueded microfiber headliner for that ultra-rich feel
- Night vision camera for a high-tech edge
Cons - With A Sense of Humor
The Premium Luxury Platinum is undoubtedly luxurious but with great features come great responsibilities. With all the added tech and gadgets you might find yourself overwhelmed by buttons knobs and touchscreens—it’s like piloting a spaceship.
"Every time I get into one of these I half expect to launch into orbit" says Alex. "It’s like the car wants to pamper you and you’re not quite sure if you deserve it."
Sport Platinum - The Crown Jewel
The Best Features
The Sport Platinum is the highest trim available and it merges the best of both the Sport and the Premium Luxury Platinum. You get all the swanky goodies from the Platinum with the sporty styling of the Sport trim. This means:
- Aggressive styling with the sport package blacked-out trims and all
- The AKG 36-speaker sound system for a concert-level experience
- Adaptive air ride suspension for an incredibly smooth ride
- Power-retractable assist steps for easy entry and exit
- Every luxury feature you could dream of packed into one sleek SUV
The Downsides - Playfully Put
The Sport Platinum is the top-of-the-line Escalade but let’s be real—it's kinda like ordering the surf 'n turf at a fancy restaurant. You know you’re getting the best but do you really need both lobster and steak? It’s basically an Escalade with everything turned up to 11.
"When you drive this thing you don’t just feel like a boss you feel like THE boss" says Alex. "But sometimes I wonder if I’m driving it or if it’s driving me."
Comparing Configurations: What's Right for You?
Breaking Down the Main Differences
Each trim is tailored to different lifestyles and budgets. Here’s a quick guide to help you figure out which one’s your perfect match:
| Trim | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | Entry-level luxury features | Budget-conscious buyers |
| Premium Luxury | Enhanced safety & comfort | Families wanting extras |
| Sport | Aggressive styling sporty handling | Drivers who want flair |
| Premium Luxury Platinum | Top-tier luxury comfort massaging seats | Buyers seeking ultimate luxury |
| Sport Platinum | All-in-one luxury & sporty styling | Those who want it all |
Pros and Cons Cheat Sheet
- Luxury - Budget-friendly but lacks premium features.
- Premium Luxury - Nice upgrade but not essential for all buyers.
- Sport - Sharp looks yet performance doesn’t match a true sports car.
- Premium Luxury Platinum - Ultimate comfort yet very complex.
- Sport Platinum - Has everything but might be too much for some.
How to Make the Right Choice
When choosing your 2021 Escalade trim consider:
- Your budget (these things get pricey quick)
- Which features are a must-have
- How much tech and luxury you actually want (or can handle)
- Your driving style and how sporty or luxurious you want to feel
"Remember it’s all about finding the right balance between luxury performance and style. Each trim has its flavor so find the one that suits your taste best" Alex advises.
Conclusion: Your Escalade Your Way
No matter which trim you go with you’re getting one of the most iconic luxury SUVs on the market with the 2021 Cadillac Escalade. Each trim has its personality from the accessible Luxury to the "I want it all" Sport Platinum.
Make your choice and own the road because once you’re behind the wheel of an Escalade all eyes are on you. And trust us you'll feel like a superstar.
References
- Cadillac Official Website (https://www.cadillac.com)
- Consumer Reports - "2021 Cadillac Escalade Review"
- Edmunds - "2021 Cadillac Escalade Pricing & Features"
- Car and Driver - "2021 Cadillac Escalade - The Ultimate Luxury SUV"