The next-generation Cadillac Escalade has been a popular topic of discussion among auto enthusiasts the world over. And Karl Stracke’s recent officially-unofficial confirmation that Caddy will be getting a Lambda-based CUV of its own didn’t do much to quell speculation of what GM is planning on doing to revamp its lineup of full-size SUVs. But one thing is for sure – upcoming fuel economy standards will be a lot more stringent than they are today and three different Escalade models won’t make it easy to meet these requirements.
As such, Inside Line reports that the new plan within GM is to replace the standard-size Escalade with a Lambda-based model. It will provide more interior space than the outgoing model – something we welcome wholeheartedly given the Escalade’s inefficient use of its vast interior volume, especially compared to similarly-proportioned Lambda-based CUVs.
While the Lambda-based Escalade may not have the towing capability of the GMT900-based model, Cadillac executives believe its tow rating should satisfy most owners. For those looking for more capability, Cadillac will continue to offer a traditional (and huge) body-on-frame Escalade ESV.
And since a sizable market will continue to exist for body on frame vehicles, GM will most likely continue to produce the Suburban and its GMC and Cadillac (ESV) variants well into the next decade. At this point, the future of the Escalade EXT remains uncertain, although your truly would love to see a next-generation.
If you’d like to know exactly what we think of a Lambda-based Caddy, take a listen to the (free) GM Authority Debate podcast right here. And while you’re doing that, head on over to Inside Line (in the source) to see their take on a Lambda-based Escalade.
[Source: Inside Line]
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