Complete 2026 Cadillac Escalade Trim Comparison: From Luxury to V-Series

The 2026 Cadillac Escalade offers six distinct trims, each crafted to suit different lifestyles and preferences. From the refined Luxury trim to the performance-focused V-Series, this full-size SUV delivers commanding presence, advanced technology, and signature Cadillac craftsmanship.

Every 2026 Escalade seats seven passengers across three rows and features a 6.2L V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The lineup includes Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum, Sport Platinum, and V-Series trims. Most trims use four-wheel drive (4WD), while the V-Series employs all-wheel drive (AWD) with a supercharged engine.

Power and Performance Across the Lineup

The standard powertrain across five Escalade trims consists of a 6.2L V8 engine generating 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated engine connects to a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth acceleration and confident highway merging. The 4WD system includes a single-speed transfer case on the Luxury trim, while Premium Luxury, Sport, and Platinum variants feature an Autotrac 2-speed transfer case for enhanced off-road capability.

The V-Series stands as the performance pinnacle. Its 6.2L Supercharged V8 produces 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque, transforming the full-size SUV into a high-performance vehicle. This trim uses AWD with a single-speed transfer case and a 250-amp alternator (compared to 220-amp on other trims). The V-Series omits the Automatic Stop/Start feature found on other trims, prioritizing immediate throttle response.

All Escalade trims share a rear axle ratio of 3.23, balancing acceleration with towing capability. The front gross axle weight rating stands at 1,678 kg (3,700 lbs) across the lineup, while the rear rating reaches 1,950 kg (4,300 lbs) on all trims except V-Series, which uses 1,905 kg (4,200 lbs).

Luxury Trim: The Foundation

The Luxury trim establishes the Escalade's baseline standard. It includes the 420 hp V8 engine, 4WD with a single-speed transfer case, and seven-passenger seating. Standard features include wheel locks and the foundational Cadillac technology suite.

This entry trim provides access to the Escalade's commanding road presence, spacious interior, and essential luxury features.

Premium Luxury: Elevated Refinement

Premium Luxury adds sophistication through upgraded materials and available packages. This trim includes standard wheel locks and introduces the Autotrac 2-speed transfer case, enhancing off-road versatility compared to Luxury.

Key upgrades include:

• Autotrac 2-speed transfer case
• Available Touring Package
• Available Onyx Package
• Black illuminated Cadillac emblem (available)

The Touring Package enhances comfort and convenience features, while the Onyx Package adds distinctive styling elements.

Sport Trim: Performance-Oriented Styling

Sport mirrors Premium Luxury's mechanical specifications while emphasizing athletic design. It features the same 4WD system with Autotrac 2-speed transfer case and 420 hp V8 engine. Standard wheel locks and the available black illuminated Cadillac emblem add visual distinction.

The Sport trim distinguishes itself through:

• Performance-inspired exterior styling
• Available black illuminated Cadillac emblem
• Available Touring Package
• Sport-specific interior appointments

The trim balances luxury with dynamic visual presence.

Premium Luxury Platinum: Executive-Level Comfort

Premium Luxury Platinum introduces the Executive Second Row Seating Package as an available option, transforming the second row into a first-class cabin. This trim makes the Touring Package standard rather than optional. The Onyx Package remains available for those seeking distinctive styling.

Notable enhancements:

• Available Executive Second Row Seating Package
• Standard Touring Package
• Available Onyx Package
• Enhanced interior materials and finishes

The Executive Second Row Seating Package caters to passengers who value comfort during long journeys.

Sport Platinum: Performance and Prestige

Sport Platinum combines Sport's athletic styling with Platinum-level features. Like Premium Luxury Platinum, it offers the Executive Second Row Seating Package and includes the Touring Package as standard equipment. The Onyx Package remains available.

This trim delivers:

• Sport-inspired exterior design
• Available Executive Second Row Seating Package
• Standard Touring Package
• Available Onyx Package

Sport Platinum offers the highest non-V-Series specification.

V-Series: Performance Flagship

The V-Series transforms the Escalade into a performance vehicle. Its 6.2L Supercharged V8 generates 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque, paired with AWD and a single-speed transfer case. The 250-amp alternator supports increased electrical demands, while the removal of Automatic Stop/Start ensures immediate power delivery.

Exclusive V-Series features include:

• 682 hp supercharged V8 engine
• AWD with single-speed transfer case
• 250-amp alternator
• Available Onyx Lite Package
• Available Executive Second Row Seating Package
• Standard Touring Package

The Onyx Lite Package, exclusive to V-Series, adds performance-oriented styling elements. The V-Series maintains the rear axle ratio of 3.23 while delivering substantially more power than other trims.

Comparing Key Specifications

Which Escalade Trim Fits Your Needs?

Selecting the right Escalade trim depends on your priorities. Luxury provides the foundational Escalade experience with essential features and capability. Premium Luxury and Sport add refinement or athleticism through available packages and enhanced transfer cases.

Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum introduce executive-level comfort with the available Executive Second Row Seating Package and standard Touring Package. The V-Series stands apart as the performance choice, delivering 262 additional horsepower and 193 lb-ft more torque than other trims.

Consider your typical usage: Do you frequently transport passengers who value second-row comfort? Premium Luxury Platinum or Sport Platinum with the Executive Second Row Seating Package may suit you. Do you prioritize off-road capability? Premium Luxury or Sport trims with Autotrac 2-speed transfer cases provide enhanced versatility. Do you seek maximum performance? The V-Series delivers supercharged power.

Experience the 2026 Escalade at Mont-Royal Cadillac

The 2026 Cadillac Escalade lineup offers six distinct expressions of full-size luxury. Each trim builds upon Cadillac's dedication to craftsmanship, technology, and capability. Whether you prioritize refined comfort, athletic styling, executive-level appointments, or supercharged performance, the Escalade lineup includes a trim tailored to your preferences.

Contact our sales team at Mont-Royal Cadillac to explore the 2026 Escalade lineup and identify which trim aligns with your lifestyle.