The plenty-full-sized Escalade is offered with two-wheel drive ($53,850) or all-wheel drive ($56,405). All-wheel-drive is standard on the extended-wheelbase Escalade ESV ($58,805); and on the clever Escalade EXT ($53,335) which, like the Chevrolet Avalanche, converts from a four-door, five-seater pickup with a short bed to a two-seater with a long bed. A high-output 6.0-liter V8 engine and four-speed automatic transmission are now standard on all models.

Cadillac is usually the first division to get GM's cutting-edge technology, and all the Escalade models come loaded with the latest: StabiliTrak electronic stability control, computer-controlled road-sensing suspension (RSS), and Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist (with lights and a warning beeper).

The list of standard luxuries is as long as the Escalade itself: Nuance leather seats with burl walnut interior trim; power heated 14-way adjustable front seats; Bose Acoustimass audio system with six-disc CD changer; XM Satellite Radio; rear seat audio controls with earphones; removable lightweight third-row seats; Heavy Duty Trailering Package.

Also standard is the OnStar communications system with Personal Calling, which allows drivers to make hands-free, voice-activated personal calls; and Virtual Advisor, which provides headlines, sports scores, weather, and personalized stock quotes (All 2006 Cadillac buyers receive a 12-month complimentary subscription to Virtual Advisor.) OnStar's latest (Gen 6) technology enhances hands-free capabilities.

The list of options is short and includes a rear-seat DVD entertainment system ($1,295), touch-screen navigation integrated into the audio system ($2,145), a power glass sunroof ($1,550), and chromed wheels in 17-inch ($795) and 20-inch ($2,995) sizes. The Select Edition package ($3,490) combines the sunroof and navigation with 17-inch chrome wheels. EXT buyers may choose a powered soft tonneau cover ($1,000).

And as this is the last year for this generation of Escalade, Cadillac is offering a Collector's Edition, which became available during the '05 model year for standard-length Escalades with 4WD. It combines a unique grille, ebony interior trim, and 20-inch chrome wheels; the price depends on whether you also order the Select Edition ($2,300) or not ($3.095).

ESV buyers may choose the Platinum Edition ($11,370), which includes (among other things) an ebony and shale dash; shale leather seating surfaces and pleated door-panel bolsters; a floor console with heated and cooled cupholders; independent heated and cooled seat cushions and seatbacks; color-keyed wood-and-leather-wrapped steering wheel with chrome accents; 20-inch, nine-spoke chromed aluminum wheels; and floor mats all around embroidered with the Cadillac wreath.

NEXT - EXTERIOR