Cadillac Escalade: Top Alternatives for 2024
Anthony Sophinos has been infatuated with cars for as long as he can remember, and that passion has fueled his journey from nerdy gearhead to professional writer and content creator who covers all things automotive. His byline has appeared at CarsDirect, New Car Test Drive, iSeeCars, and other online publications. To read more of his work, visit anthonysophinos.com. When he’s not penning articles, you can find Anthony outside biking, hiking, or exploring New England in his Miata (in the summer, of course).
The Cadillac Escalade is about as big and brash as they come: it seats up to eight and is decked out with all the frippery one expects of a six-figure luxury SUV.
With its widespread appeal ranging from musicians to Hollywood stars to your neighbor who wants to feel like they’ve arrived, the Escalade remains unsurpassed as a symbol of wealth and success.
For those looking for something a little less flashy - and perhaps a little less pricey and a little less inefficient, too - we found there are a number of great alternatives to the Escalade.
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Cadillac Escalade Weaknesses
The Takeaway: The Escalade does many things right, but not everybody wants to flaunt the image of Cadillac’s biggest, most unabashedly extravagant vehicle.
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Escalade. Just the name connotes certain images in people’s minds: music videos, LA boulevards, ritzy shopping malls, and McMansion suburbs. Forget the other fancy SUVs - it’s the big ‘Slade that has taken up the mantle for this echelon of living.
That’s not everybody’s cup of tea, of course, and is likely the biggest contributing factor as to why buyers might look elsewhere when shopping for a full-size luxury SUV. Many other options have the same luxury fixings without the flashy image.
The Escalade's value is also questionable. It’s no secret that the Escalade is a reskinned Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. The chassis and powertrains are shared across all three models, and all three deliver similar performance and capability. Even the ride isn’t much different, as upper trims GMC Yukon offers the adaptive air suspension that’s standard on the Cadillac.
And what if you don’t need all that size? The competition is, by and large, smaller and more maneuverable. They’re easier to park, more efficient, and still can carry three rows of passengers in a pinch. They trade off a bit of size for much more practicality - and often at a lower price.
What's New for 2024?
For the 2024 model year, the Cadillac Escalade introduces the Super Cruise semi-autonomous hands-free driving system as standard on all trims except the base Luxury model.
Additionally, all Escalade models now come with a 3-year subscription to the OnStar Premium Plan.
A notable addition is the 20th Anniversary V-Series package, which includes unique branding elements such as a grille header graphic, interior splash screen logo, and puddle lamp logo, exclusive to the Escalade-V.
Cadillac Escalade Top Competitors Comparison Summary
- GMC Yukon vs Cadillac Escalade: Shares a platform with the Escalade but offers a slightly less opulent experience at a more accessible price point, especially in the Denali trim.
- Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Cadillac Escalade: Combines rugged off-road capability with luxury, presenting a more adventurous alternative to the Escalade's urban elegance.
- Audi Q7 vs Cadillac Escalade: Delivers European refinement and superior driving dynamics, catering to those who prioritize a sophisticated ride over the Escalade's bold statement.
- Mercedes-Benz GLS vs Cadillac Escalade: Sets the standard for luxury and technology in the segment, offering an alternative with unmatched German engineering and comfort.
- Lincoln Navigator vs Cadillac Escalade: Provides a direct competitor to the Escalade with its focus on luxury and space, emphasizing a quiet, comfortable cabin and advanced technology.
The Lincoln Navigator updates its 2024 model with subtle refinements to its already luxurious interior and exterior design.
It continues to offer a serene cabin environment, powerful performance, and innovative features like Lincoln Co-Pilot360 for a comprehensive luxury experience.
Focuses on creating a serene and luxurious driving experience with powerful performance and advanced safety features.
The Takeway: If the Escalade isn’t quite opulent enough, a Lincoln Navigator Black Label is sure to satisfy. It’s additional power and sumptuous interior make it an excellent alternative to the big Cadillac.
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Lincoln | Navigator | 5.90% | $1,140/month for 48 months, $9,302 due at signing | 4/30/24 | |
| 2024 | Lincoln | Navigator | 7.90% | $1,119/month for 36 months, $9,595 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Lincoln deals
2. Mercedes-Benz GLS
The Mercedes-Benz GLS remains the pinnacle of German engineering in the luxury SUV market, offering unparalleled comfort, advanced technology, and powerful engine options.
The 2024 GLS further refines its luxury offerings, ensuring it remains a top choice for discerning buyers.
Mercedes-Benz GLS represents the height of German luxury SUV engineering, with a focus on comfort, technology, and performance.
Current Mercedes-Benz GLS Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Mercedes | GLS | ||||
| 2024 | Mercedes | GLS | $1,149/month for 36 months, $8,143 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Mercedes-Benz deals
3. Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 brings European sophistication to the segment, with a focus on interior quality, driving dynamics, and advanced technology.
The 2024 model year continues to offer a refined experience, with enhancements to its infotainment and driver assistance systems.
Audi Q7 provides European refinement and driving dynamics, with a focus on interior quality and technology.
Current Audi Q7 Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Audi | Q7 | 5.99% | |||
| 2024 | Audi | Q7 | $1,500 | 4.99% | $699/month for 36 months, $6,589 due at signing | 4/30/24 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Audi deals
4. Jeep Grand Wagoneer
The Grand Wagoneer enters 2024, emphasizing its unique blend of American luxury and off-road capability.
With its advanced 4x4 systems and upscale interior, it presents a compelling alternative for those seeking rugged luxury.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer stands out for combining luxury with off-road prowess, appealing to those who demand both in equal measure.
Current Jeep Deals & Incentives
You may qualify for deals and incentives, check out this month's Jeep deals.
5. GMC Yukon
The GMC Yukon, particularly in its Denali trim, closely rivals the Escalade in luxury and presence. For 2024, it enhances its offering with refined interior options and the latest in GMC technology and safety features.
The Yukon AT4 provides an off-road-capable alternative within the same family.
GMC Yukon offers a similar American luxury experience with a slightly more accessible price point, especially in the Denali and AT4 trims.
Current GMC Yukon Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | GMC | Yukon | ||||
| 2022 | GMC | Yukon |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's GMC deals
