2025 Cadillac Escalade V POV Driving Impressions: A Supercharged Beast

Performance and Powertrain

• 🚀 The 2025 Cadillac Escalade V boasts a hand-built, supercharged 6.2L V8 engine producing 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque.
• ⚡ It achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds, with a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time AWD.
• 🔊 A performance-tuned quad-tip exhaust system delivers a sound reminiscent of a Camaro ZL1, with notable pops and burbles.

Interior and Technology

• 📱 The interior features a large 55-inch curved OLED display and an AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker sound system.
• 💡 While offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the reliance on screens for controls is noted as potentially distracting, with a preference for physical buttons.
• 💺 The cabin offers luxurious semi-aniline leather, carbon fiber trim, and a massive panoramic sunroof, though rear-seat space, particularly in the third row, is noted as less than expected for its size.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

• 💨 The Escalade V offers a supercharged V8 experience with immense torque and an entertaining, albeit heavy, driving feel.
• ⚠️ While handling is improved over standard Escalades, it's noted that physics still apply, and it's not a track-focused SUV, with stability control being quite intrusive.
• 🛣️ The Air Ride Adaptive Suspension provides a comfortable ride, even in sportier modes, effectively smoothing out road imperfections.

Features and Options

• 🌟 Super Cruise is now standard for 2025, offering impressive driver assistance capabilities on highways and even some back roads.
• 💰 The optional Executive Second Row Seating Package adds significant luxury but may impede third-row access, making it a potential omission for family use.
• 💰 Pricing starts around $160,000, with options pushing the total MSRP closer to $170,000.

Overall Impression

• ✨ The Escalade V is described as a genuinely fun and memorable SUV, standing out for its emotional engagement and the personality of its supercharged V8.
• 🔊 It's considered a