2012 Cadillac Escalade Luxury

This is Cadillac's full-size luxury SUV, the one that brings serious presence to the school run or the valet line. It's a big truck, so you'll feel its size, but the ride is smooth and the steering is light enough that it's easier to manage than you'd expect. The cabin is genuinely roomy, with comfortable seating for up to eight and an easy-folding third row that opens up plenty of cargo space. Owners mention that the big tires wear quickly and that visibility can be tricky, so take a careful look before you buy. Leather seating and the standard navigation screen set the Luxury apart from the base trim, while you give up the Platinum's upgraded audio and chrome wheels. The 6.2L V8 makes 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive that handle the big SUV's 5,694 pounds without feeling strained.