The only engine offered is the 5.7-liter pushrod V8, tuned to produce 255 horsepower and 330 foot-pounds of torque. Those figures are competitive with other SUV engines, but the Escalade's 6000-pound towing capacity falls 1200 pounds short of either Tahoe or Yukon, and 1700 pounds short of Navigator.

Escalade's power delivery system, called AutoTrac, has four modes. The driver can choose rear-wheel drive, or conventional four-wheel drive in high or low range, via buttons to the right of the steering column. The fourth mode is automatic and suitable for all types of driving. It uses an active transfer case and delivers power primarily to the rear wheels, but will shift power to the front wheels to improve traction and maximize tire grip as road or weather conditions dictate.

The Escalade's standard feature list includes every convenience Cadillac offers, from electrically heated seats to electrochromic side and rearview mirrors that automatically adjust for day or night use. The interior is finished in an ivory-colored leather. Exterior choices are limited to white, black, sand or red. The hardware required for OnStar--a Global Positioning Satellite transponder and on-board cellular phone--is included in the price, and with Escalade Cadillac waives the $34.95 monthly service fee for a year.

For many buyers, OnStar might make more sense than the typical map-based navigation system, and it offers a lot more options. If an OnStar subscriber needs route advice, he or she simply makes a call. The GPS transponder locates the vehicle, and the OnStar communications center provides directions.

OnStar can also unlock the Escalade should the keys be locked inside and it can track the truck if it's stolen. It automatically notifies the communications center if an airbag deploys, then immediately calls the vehicle in an attempt to determine whether there are injuries. If there is no response, the center notifies emergency help. Finally, subscribers can use OnStar for everything from reserving hotel rooms to ordering flowers.