The Cadillac Escalade has been named the 2020 Off-Road Vehicle of the Year in Russia.
The luxury SUV was voted number one in the “Full Size SUV” category in Russia’s 2020 Off-Road Vehicle of the Year awards by an “authoritative blogging jury,” of automotive experts. The awards are held each year by the Russian “Club 4×4” magazine, with vehicles judged based on their driving characteristics and overall value for money. The awards also divide vehicles into crossover and SUV categories and then split vehicles up from there based on size.
The Escalade beat seven other entrants to win the full-size SUV category, which is exclusive to SUVs that are longer than 4,900 mm (16 feet) and weigh more than two tons (4,000 lbs). Other competing full-size luxury SUVs for sale in Russia include the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, Lexus GX and Audi Q7.
“It is nice to know that the Cadillac Escalade is still relevant, it is a true legend in the automotive market,” Olga Burlakova, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for General Motors Russia, said in a translated statement. “Recognition in the blogosphere is of great value to us, and we thank the jury for this award! ”
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade has not yet gone on sale in Russia, so the Club 4×4 magazine jurors likely sampled the previous-generation 2020 Escalade when judging this award. That means that an aging Escalade model was enough to beat out key rivals in Russia, which bodes well for the improved next-generation version that will arrive shortly. While Cadillac has not said if the new Escalade will be sold in Russia, the automaker has been expanding its lineup in the region in recent months, bringing both the Cadillac XT4 and Cadillac XT6 to the country.
Riding on the updated T1 platform, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade features a new independent rear suspension system, along with available Magnetic Ride Control with Adaptive Air Ride Suspension. Two engines are available in the full-size luxury SUV: a naturally-aspirated 6.2L V8 (production code L87), or a 3.0L I6 turbo-diesel (production code LM2). Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive. The SUV also features a completely overhauled cabin with an impressive 38-inch OLED widescreen display, available Cadillac Super Cruise and other high-tech features aimed at elevating the storied Escalade nameplate.
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade will go on sale in the United States in the coming months.
Subscribe to Cadillac Society for more Cadillac Escalade news and around-the-clock Cadillac news coverage.
But still less than the industry average.
No, the V badge doesn't add horsepower... but nice try.
Due to an issue with oversized lifter bores.
Applicable only to models that are NOT eligible for the tax credit.
Dressed in black with bright silver accents.
Caddy swept both first and second.
