GM announces new high-performance Cadillac Escalade V-Series SUV
- GM's new version of the Cadillac Escalade adds to its growing lineup of high-powered gasoline models ahead of the automaker's push toward electric vehicles.
- The 2023 V-Series resembles current models, but it's expected to offer significantly more performance.
- Automakers have increasingly been adding performance variants to their lineups as a way to beef-up profit margins.
DETROIT – General Motors has announced a new version of its flagship Cadillac Escalade SUV line, adding to its growing lineup of high-powered gasoline vehicles ahead of the automaker's push toward full electrification by 2035.
GM on Friday said the 2023 Cadillac Escalade V-Series, like its other performance vehicles, will "encompass the peak of Cadillac performance, bold, distinguished design and innovative technology."
The new V-Series resembles other current Escalade SUVs, but it's expected to offer significantly more performance. The sound of the engine also mimics that of a sports car more than a full-size SUV, according to videos released by the automaker.
Cadillac's "V" or "V-Series" designation has traditionally been used for performance cars. The Escalade V-Series is expected to be powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 that's currently used in the CT5-V Blackwing sedan, according to media reports. That engine generates 668 horsepower and 659 foot-pounds of torque, which compares to the current Escalade with a 6.2-liter V-8 at 420 horsepower and 460 foot-pounds of torque.
A GM spokeswoman declined to provide more details about the new vehicle, saying more information will be available in the spring.
Automakers have increasingly been adding performance variants to their lineups as a way to beef-up profit margins before they transition more to electric vehicles, which can offer high performance but lower margins than gas-powered cars.
Cadillac is expected to lead GM's target to exclusively offer electric vehicles by 2035, with the Escalade line offering its EV-only fleet by 2030.