Car Statistics: Cadillac - Escalade  Series 07 (1 star)

Styling (2 stars)

Cadillac's trademark front end has been grafted onto an XXL off-roader. The end result is neither stylish or particularly convincing.

Handling (1 star)

It's about the size of the Titanic - and about as good at taking evasive action.

Comfort (3 stars)

Ride can get shuddery over rougher road surfaces - especially if wearing the massively over-large alloys that seem to be an Escalade's lot. The cabin is comfortable and noise insulation is good, though.

Quality (2 stars)

Just not good enough compared to rivals that have been built to European standards. The interior feels very low-rent.

Performance (4 stars)

The big V8 engine hauls the Escalade's big fat ass along at a serious - and sometimes terrifying - rate of knots. Acceleration is strong, with the 0-60 mph dash dispatched in under seven seconds, but the natural cruising speed is limited by wind and road noise.

Roominess (3 stars)

Reasonable - although it's nothing like as roomy inside as its gargantuan external proportions might suggest. Third row seats offer limited space for adults and access to them is awkward through the rear door.

Costs (1 star)

It might have plenty of red carpet bling, but terrifying fuel consumption means the Escalade is best kept to ferrying celebs between awards ceremonies and afterparties. Depreciation on UK imports will be very steep too, although specialist servicing tends to be reasonably priced.

Value (1 star)

Even with a very generous dollar exchange rate it's hard to recommend the Escalade for anyone with more money than sense. There are so many better big SUVs in the market that it's really hard to see its point.

Stereo (1 star)

The standard audio system will need to be replaced to work properly in Europe.

Other

Replacement: 2014

Overall Rating (1 star)