By most standards, the Cadillac Escalade is considered the cream of the crop when it comes to luxury SUVs. There’s no way for the company to improve on the vehicle that’s set the standard for SUVs since 1999, right?
Not so fast.
As it turns out, Cadillac took things a step further with the 2021 Escalade (and many of their other offerings) with the Platinum trim. As if the Escalade wasn’t already the perfect mixture of luxury and functionality, the latest model features a trim that’ll blow you away.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: Why the Platinum Trim?
Even with the base model, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is a show stopper. With an exciting combination of modern technology and upscale class, it delivers a powerful punch while still maintaining an unprecedented level of elegance.
And then there’s the Platinum trim, which takes the Escalade’s style and sophistication and turns it up to 12. It obviously costs more than the standard 2021 Cadillac Escalade, but it’s more than worth the price of admission for those who see this luxurious SUV as a status symbol as well as a reliable means of transportation.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: What’s New?
In case you didn’t know, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade underwent a complete redesign, marking the fifth generation of the luxurious SUV.
Although we won’t go into specifics just yet, keep in mind that this redesign included exterior changes, a focus on adding tech to the interior, spruced-up comforts for drivers and passengers alike, and a new powertrain option. As if the Escalade wasn’t already an eye-opener, the new 2021 model takes it to a new level with style, sophistication and class.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: Price
Let’s not sugarcoat this — the 2021 Cadillac Escalade isn’t cheap.
Starting at $76,195 MSRP, the base 2021 Escalade certainly won’t fit into anyone’s budget. That sentiment isn’t any less true for the Platinum trim, which will cost $99,995 at its simplest form. The price only goes up from there based on the additional features and packages that are thrown in.
With all of that said, if the money part of the equation works, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum trim is well worth the investment given its long list of added comforts and luxuries.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: Engine/Performance
While the 2021 Cadillac Escalade won’t save you much money or time at the pumps, it certainly brings the heat when it comes to power and performance.
Featuring either a 6.2L V8 engine or a turbo-diesel 3L inline-six, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade packs quite the pack. The standard V8 engine creates 420 horsepower and features Dynamic Fuel Management, a system that reduces cylinder usage to save fuel when in cruise control. Both powertrains are connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Now standard on the 2021 Escalade is the automatic start/stop, a feature that turns the engine off when the car is idling and then turns it back on when the driver’s foot comes off the brake. This feature can be disabled, but can also have a noticeable impact on fuel economy and eco-friendliness.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: Safety/Technology
Let’s not downplay the performance of the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, but the safety and technology are where it truly hits its stride.
It all starts with the curved 38-inch combined infotainment display and gauge cluster that’ll have you thinking you’re at the controls of a spaceship. The display truly is a beauty to behold, flowing across the dashboard with layers of technological sophistication.
Even on the base model, Cadillac packs a AKG Studio sound system into the 2021 Escalade. Step up to the Platinum trim, and you’ve got yourself a top-of-the-line 36-speaker system that’ll get you believing you’re front row at your favorite band’s first post-COVID concert.
That all sounds great, right? The tech inside the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is phenomenal, but the peace of mind that comes from having such a wide array of safety features is invaluable.
The Escalade already comes equipped with top features like automated emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and forward collision alert.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: Other Top Features
Based on what you’ve read so far, can you really ask for more? Well, with the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum, the list of features just keeps going and going.
On the inside, Cadillac prioritizes comfort with an exciting amount of luxurious touches. From the 16-way adjustable, full semi-aniline leather seating, to the leather-wrapped instrument panel, to the rear seat entertainment system with dual 12.6” LCD HD screens, the fun never seems to stop. To top it off, you’ll also have Sirius XM radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, Bluetooth integration, and a wireless phone charger to ensure you endless entertainment options.
Cadillac didn’t forget about the exterior with the Platinum trim, though. You’ll also get 22” laser-etched alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, a panoramic power sunroof, chrome roof tails, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. No matter where you look, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum delivers a premier experience.
2021 Cadillac Escalade: The Verdict
There’s no denying that the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum is costly — $99,995 MSRP isn’t cheap, and that’s before any potential optional add-ons. However, with all of the extra bells and whistles it comes with, it’s hard to deny the value the Platinum trim delivers to its drivers.
With the Escalade Platinum, you’re getting the power, performance and advanced technology that you expect from the base Escalade along with all of the comforts of Cadillac’s top-of-the-line luxury. With the superior seating and upholstery, decked-out sound system, upgraded infotainment system and connectivity, and the increased exterior flare, there’s no reason to count out the Platinum trim if it’s within your budget.
The price tag can be intimidating, but you need to consider the 2021 Cadillac Escalade Platinum if you have any interest in being the envy of all your family and friends.


