The Cadillac Escalade Can Tow More Than You Think

In the world of full-size luxury SUVs, few have made quite as big of an impact as the Cadillac Escalade. For over 20 years, it's been the darling of monied soccer moms and celebrities alike, all reveling in the capacious interior and sumptuous ride. But it's not all just image and luxury. Cadillac knows its large SUV needs to be practical and functional, as consumers expect a vehicle to cater to a variety of needs.

Large SUVs often need to tow an assortment of items and, based on the Escalade's towing capabilities, owners of the big Caddy won't be disappointed. Available with either a gas-powered 6.2-liter V8 or turbodiesel 3.0-liter inline-six, the Escalade's towing capabilities vary depending on which powertrain is selected and whether it's equipped with the optional Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment Package. It's worth noting the max trailer weight is also dependent on body style.

Two-wheel-drive models fitted with the V8 motor can tow up to 7,700 lbs, with the diesel-engined equivalent capable of pulling slightly more, at 8,100 lbs. Interestingly, equipping the rear-wheel-drive Escalade turbodiesel with the aforementioned Heavy-Duty Trailering Equipment Package (ZM1) doesn't improve the towing capacity, although gas models fitted with the package gain an extra 500 lbs of capacity.

The four-wheel-drive counterparts have a lower maximum trailer weight. With or without the ZM1 package, the 3.0-liter diesel with 4WD has a rating of 7,800 lbs. With power sent to all four wheels, the 6.2-liter V8 model has a towing capacity of 8,000 lbs with the ZM1 package fitted, and 7,500 lbs without. Interestingly, long-wheelbase ESV derivatives have a lower towing capacity.