The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV by the General Motors luxury brand, Cadillac. It was released in 1999 to make an attempt to counter the Ford's success with the Lincoln Navigator. The name Escalade refers to a siege warfare tactic of scaling defensive walls or fortifications with the aid of ladders or siege towers.

The Escalade has gone under minor changes for the 2008 model year. The 2008 Escalade is a carryover from 2007. "It is a 4-door, up to 8-passenger luxury sport-utility, available in two trims, the 2WD and the AWD. The 2WD is equipped with a standard 6.2-liter, V8, 403-horsepower engine that achieves 12-mpg in the city and 19-mpg on the highway. The AWD is equipped with a standard 6.2-liter, V8, 403-horsepower engine that achieves 12-mpg in the city and 18-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims." With this specification, reviewers agree that it is a true performer without sacrificing its smooth ride.

The styling had been in one of the highest rank in the SUV category. It may revolutionize the SUV styling into a more elegant sort. It features a larger chrome grille that looks more elegant than the previous releases. It has been well enhanced by wraparound fascias, styled mirrors and integrated running boards. One exterior feature that helps in improving aerodynamic performance is the windshield angle of 57 degrees, which flows gracefully into the roofline.

Most reviewers have favorable comments about how luxurious and spacious the Escalades interior is. With leather-covered seats for up to eight persons, it can easily transport a multitude with comfort and luxury. Luxury and convenience is defined with leather-covered door trim and center console; fabric-covered interior pillars; and an available heated steering wheel. A power-assisted rear liftgate that opens and closes with the touch of a button also is standard.

Cadillac Escalade also includes an available eight-inch touch-screen navigation system, as well as a DVD system with a large, eight-inch flip-down screen. These are all features which can satisfy entertainment-loving passengers. The Escalade also offers good cargo capacity for its class.

Escalade is designed to be among the industry's safest and most secure vehicles. It comes standard with four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, and StabiliTrac, GM's stability control system. StabiliTrak uses a computer to detect unsafe conditions, then selectively applies the brakes and individual wheels and uses the throttle to maintain vehicle control; all of this for accident avoidance.

According to usnews.rankingsandreviews.com "The 2008 Cadillac Escalade does very well in federal government crash tests."