The Cadillac Escalade has become a favorite of the hip hop set and high profile individuals everywhere since the full size luxury SUV first debuted in 1999, essentially as an up-level GMC Yukon. Now in its third generation, the Escalade still shares underpinnings with the Yukon and Chevrolet Tahoe, but it features unique exterior styling, a more luxurious interior, and a more powerful engine compared with its platform mates that allows it to compete with prestigious rivals such as the Mercedes Benz GL-class and Infiniti QX56.

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All Escalades are powered by a 6.2 liter Vortec V8 with variable valve timing, good for 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque, and are equipped with a 6-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission with driver shift control. Rear wheel drive is standard, while all wheel drive can be selected as an option. The Escalade comes standard with a full leather and wood trimmed interior, a Bose 5.1 surround sound system, and a road sensing suspension that features computer controlled real-time damping. The second row can be configured with either a bench or bucket seats.

An Ultra Luxury Collection package is optional, featuring extras such as heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, and a DVD navigation system. Also included are niceties such as power folding second row seats, a rearview backup camera, and enormous 22-inch 7-spoke chromed aluminum wheels sure to satisfy customers looking for extra bling.

The Escalade's safety features include dual front impact airbags as well as side curtain airbags for the first, second, and third rows. To prevent collisions, the Escalade is equipped with a StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation and traction control that applies brake pressure or cuts engine speed to regain traction.

Since the Escalade received a clean sheet redesign for 2007, there are no major changes for 2008. However, a full hybrid version with an innovative two-mode transmission is promised for 2009 that should significantly increase the Escalade's fuel economy without impairing its 6000 pound towing capacity. Also expect a Platinum edition Escalade for 2009 with an upgraded, more luxurious interior, a magnetic ride control system with road sensing, and unique exterior trim details.