As indicated, the Escalade's four-wheel disc brakes come standard with ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD). The powerful brakes proved to be quite responsive and more than up to the task of bringing the big truck to a halt with little drama and surprisingly little brake dive. The pedal feel was good, if not as pleasingly firm as its German competitors.

The Stabilitrak electronic stability control system manages wheel slip by applying the brakes at the slipping wheel without interrupting power deliver to the wheels with grip. Stabilitrak also helps maintain stability in corners by braking individual wheels when the vehicle's path doesn't match the driver's intentions.

Fuel economy for the Escalade is estimated at 13 miles per gallon city and 19 highway, which isn't exactly miserly but not as bad as it could be, considering the power and weight of the vehicle. And it's right in line with competitors such as the Infiniti QX56 (13/18 mpg) and the Mercedes-Benz ML500 (15/19 mpg)

Summary

The all-new 2007 Cadillac Escalade is an impressive vehicle in more ways than looks. It drives like a much smaller vehicle while accommodating corn-fed adults in unbridled luxury. It offers the segment's most powerful V8, which will make it a great vehicle for drivers who tow or simply like the feeling of strong acceleration. As long as one has enough space in their driveway or garage for this big truck, and can afford its thirst for gasoline, we expect the new Escalade will make many drivers very comfortable and happy for the long haul.

New Car Test Drive contributor Steve Siler filed this report from San Diego, California

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Cadillac Escalade 2WD ($53,850); Escalade AWD ($56,405); Escalade ESV ($57,935) and Escalade EXT ($52,815)

Engines:403-hp 6.2-liter V8

Transmissions:6-speed automatic with manual shift control

Safety equipment (standard):dual front air bags, three-row side curtain air bags, three-position seat belts in all seating positions (with pretensioners and load-limiters on front seats), anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes, Stabilitrak stability control with rollover mitigation, tire pressure monitors

Safety equipment (optional):none

Basic warranty:4 years/50,000 miles

Assembled in:Arlington, Texas (Escalade); Silao, Mexico (ESV, EXT)