2007 Cadillac Escalade Review: A Luxurious, Dependable, Overpriced Full-Size SUV

Gilbert Smith
May 5, 2023

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade is comfortable, dependable, delivers an incredible 403 horsepower, and sells for around $12,000. If any 2007 full-size SUV is worth twelve grand, it’s an Escalade, but… no 2007 full-size SUV is worth twelve grand.

Front angle medium view.
likeFilled The Good
One of the most comfortable vehicles ever made, with engine specs that technically qualify the SUV as a muscle car.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Refueling can be expensive, and some drivers may find the large size of the SUV awkard. $12,000 is just too much to spend on a vehicle this old.

Is the 2007 Cadillac Escalade a Good Used Car?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – There’s very little to criticize about the 2007 Cadillac Escalade. It’s an excellent luxury SUV from top to bottom.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Simply one of the most comfortable vehicles ever made, with a spacious cabin and heated leather seats as a standard feature.
  • Reliability 8/10 – The 2007 Escalade has proven remarkably dependable. With adequate care there’s no reason you can’t reach a quarter million miles on the original transmission.
  • Safety 8/10 – Standard safety features are generous, and crash test ratings are good.
  • Gas Mileage 5/10 – Whatever your options, you’re not doing any better than 17 miles to the gallon, combined.
  • Value 5/10 – $12,000 is just way too much to spend on any vehicle that already has 150,000 miles on the odometer, especially when it comes with steeper-than-average maintenance and refueling costs.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle marcus s
I would like people to know how reliable my car is.
I like the gas mileage that I get during my commute also the comfort during the time I'm driving and also the style.
accountCircle Nicholas
Great Drive
This Be Chile Has Aged Pretty Well And most people Think it looks like a 2014 Or Newer Making It Fell Always Modern!
accountCircle Kathy E
Very reliable low maintenance.
Very comfortable easy smooth driving navigation heated steering wheel heated and cooling leather seats.
accountCircle RON B
The aesthetic, the smooth ride, the handling.
I love my Cadillac escalade. I have had it for years and it always has performed well. My vehicle also has a beautiful overall aesthetic. I plan on keeping my Cadillac for many more years. When I ultimately trade it in, I will do so and get another Cadillac escalade.
accountCircle Julie D
It drives good you feel like you're floating on air
I love how it does a lot of things by itself. It practically tells you what's wrong with it
accountCircle A M
Love the space and the comfort.
Love it.. No problem. A lot of space. Convenient.. It takes a lot of gas.. But great when going on vacation. My kids have a lot of space to move around and my big stroller can fit in the trunk.. Love that it have a TV and backup camera. My mirror can lock in. And it remote start.
accountCircle Aurora D
Perfect small family vehicle.
Vehicle has 4 heated and cooled bucket seats. 3rd row seating. Bose surround sound. Auxiliary port. DVD player and back seat TV. V6 engine and all wheel drive. It is a big hefty truck and comfortable for my family of 4. I live in upper Michigan so it is convenient for harsh winters. The sunroof and air conditioning make summer drives a 'breeze' only thing that sucks is when something goes wrong it is very expensive to take care of and leaves us without transportation until we can afford to fix it.
accountCircle Tonya H
It is one of the best luxury SUVs that you can buy
My escalade is a very reliable and safe vehicle to drive. It is not only a luxury automobile but it provides a level of safety unmatched. It is also American made and it made very well.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Amber P
I like how big and roomy it is. I do not like how expensive gas is for it. It also has a few mechanical issues
It is a family vehicle and has plenty of room for family outings
accountCircle Brook R
The Escalade has good power. The Escalade is very spacious.
I like the power. It is spacious. I do not like the oil leak. I do not like the gas mileage.
accountCircle Nancy C
Great full size SUV Love the backup camera! The mirrors automatically turn downward so you can see the curb
Great full size SUV, always runs great, has a lot of features that someday I will seek out how to use them all!
accountCircle jen H
Low miles but not very nice running
Love the color...It's very rusted out so i hate that...Inside is cream color and i hate that
accountCircle Ed Cox
Favorite Vehicle up to 150,000 miles !!!
Up to 150,000 miles I thought this truck was on clouds. Since 150,000, I have replaced the transmission, wheel bearings, front shafts, bcm, tcm, ecm, ground straps, along with multiple wiring shorts My advise, if yours is getting close trade it. Get a new one and start over but get rid of it because you will continue to throw money at it..
accountCircle Jordan M
Very nice and comfortable for the whole family.
It drives well. I think I will get a new car that is not as big as the escalade. It can sometimes feel like I am driving a big boat, especially on turns. It is really comfortable which is why I really like it a lot. Cars should be a good source of transportation for you and your family.

What Do Critics Say About the 2007 Cadillac Escalade?

Consumer Reports found the 2007 Escalade to be, more or less, a first-class version of a Chevy Tahoe. They liked the powerful 6.2L V8 engine and plush, quiet interior, but note that handling is a bit clumsy and braking distance is uncomfortably long.

Kelley Blue Book praised the 2007 Escalade as a bold and luxurious transporter, capable of hauling the entire squad with plenty of cargo in style and comfort. They note mediocre gas mileage as a concern, and suggest that some passengers may find the oversized vehicle a bit awkward to climb in and out of.

Edmunds liked the interior design, intuitive layout, powerful engine and solid handling. They note the lack of a fold-flat third row as a minus, and that some of the interior trim materials are cheap and plasticky, which would be easier to overlook if it wasn’t a Cadillac Escalade.

What Common Problems Does the 2007 Cadillac Escalade Have?

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade has generated 272 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Around half of these are for issues with the airbags, with drivers reporting recall parts shortages a full year after a pair of early 2021 airbags recalls.

There are 36 complaints on file for issues with the Escalade’s electrical components. Reports cover everything from unresponsive seat switches to radio shutoff, with many reporting a burning plastic smell, and some drivers discovering melting wires in the dashboard.

A handful of drivers have reported broken camshafts, resulting in a loss of power while in motion. Rate of incidence is low, and this typically occurs later in the vehicle’s life, but there have been no recalls as yet, which may be worrying for such a potentially severe issue.

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade has been recalled 5 times, which is perfectly average for an SUV of this age.

How Long Will the 2007 Cadillac Escalade Last?

Cadillacs are built to last, with the Escalade typically running up around 200,000 to 300,000 miles on the original transmission. Expect 250,000 if you can find one in good condition and if you take excellent care of it.

Repairpal estimate an annual maintenance cost of around $594, which is average for a full-size SUV, but lower than you’d be spending on a typical luxury vehicle. Some of the more expensive common repairs include new trans oil cooler assemblies starting at around $441, and suspension height sensors at $317.

accountCircle Laura M

Mine has been incredibly reliable. I have had almost no problems in almost 10 years. The brakes had an issue two years ago, but it was an easy and cheap fix. Otherwise, I have had no problems. It is very reliable

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology in the 2007 Escalade is very generous for the model year. DVD players, 6-disc CD changers, and MP3 players are all included as standard features.

Safety technology is excellent for 2007. Traction control, StabiliTrak with rollover mitigation, and anti-lock brakes all come standard.

Is the 2007 Cadillac Escalade a Good Value?

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade is pretty expensive for a vehicle this old. Fair market prices range from $9,779 to $12,242 with a typical listing price at around $11,811.

These prices are for models with around 150,000 miles on the odometer, and you might get another 50,000 to 100,000 miles out of the SUV before the first major repair. The question is, will any vehicle with 150,000 already on the odometer ever be worth twelve thousand dollars to you?

What are the Different Models of the 2007 Cadillac Escalade?

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade is available in just one trim level, with rear and four wheel drive models available. Here’s what you’re getting in every Escalade:

  • Leather seating
  • 14-way power adjust driver seat
  • Heated front seats
  • Wood and leather wrapped steering wheel
  • Cruise control C
  • D/DVD/MP3 player with 10 premium Bose 5.1 speakers
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Tri-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak, and traction control
car
2WD 4dr
403 HP 17-17 MPG
car
AWD 4dr
403 HP 16-16 MPG

What Engines Come In the 2007 Cadillac Escalade?

  • The 2007 Escalade comes packed with a 6.2L V8 engine delivering 403 horsepower and 417 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Rear wheel drive models average 13/20 miles to the gallon, city/highway, while all wheel drive models average 13/19. The Escalade can tow up to 8,000 pounds.

What Colors Does the 2007 Cadillac Escalade Come In?

How Comfortable Is the 2007 Cadillac Escalade?

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade is high in the running for most comfortable used SUV on the road. The only knocks against the vehicle in this regard have to do with some cheap-feeling interior plastics and, for shorter passengers, the awkward climb into the cabin.

You’ve got 60 inches of hip room, plenty of leg and head room, and heated leather seats as a standard feature. There’s not much to complain about in the comfort department.

How Much Storage Space Does the 2007 Cadillac Escalade Have?

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade offers as much cargo space as a small moving van. You start off with 17 cubic feet in the back of the SUV, comparable to a larger full-size sedan trunk. This expands to 109 cubic feet, which is about as much space as you’ll find in any full-size SUV from this model year.

But, you’ll have to remove the third row entirely to make full use of the cargo space.

Centered wide dash shot

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The 2007 Cadillac Escalade was the first model year for the nameplate’s 3rd Generation, running until 2014.

2005: Premium instrument clusters and some chrome flourishes were new for 2005.

2006: Some new body color options were added for 2006, and the satellite navigation system was redesigned.

2007: The Escalade got a total overhaul for 2007, with a bigger cabin, a more powerful V8 engine, power-folding second-row seats, and more luxurious interior materials throughout.

2008: Rain sensing windshield wipers and xenon headlights with classy etched Cadillac logos were added for 2008.

2009: 2009 saw the addition of a power-tilting steering wheel, one-touch power windows, and a tasteful Cashmere/Cocoa interior color scheme.

How Does the 2007 Cadillac Escalade Compare to the Competition?

The 2007 Lincoln Navigator typically sells for around $7,507, or about $4,500 less than the Escalade. The Navigator’s 300 horsepower 5.4L V8 can’t quite compete with the Escalade’s 400 horsepower 6.2L V8, but either SUV is giving you more power than you need.

A 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe offers comparable performance, but costs around ten thousand bucks and is plagued with a long list of mechanical issues. If you’re going to spend five figures on a 16 year old SUV, you might as well invest the extra two grand on a reliable, luxurious Escalade.

But, you probably don’t want to spend five figures on a 16 year old SUV. So the Lincoln Navigator is the one to go with if you’re looking for a 2007 luxury full-size.

Ranks #4 Luxury Full Size SUV by Owners

1
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4.71
2
car
4.57
3
car
4.51
4
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4.5

Do Owners Recommend the 2007 Cadillac Escalade?

accountCircle Mary H

Yes. It drives smoothly, is easy to drive, looks sleek, and has been safe. It is roomy enough for everyday use, but not too big that it takes up too much room on the road.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Steve on January 10, 2022
Amazing
I bought a 2007 6 years old with 55k miles I drive it for 7 years only big issue to fix was the rear differential which went out around 185k miles. I sold the car at 205k miles because at that point it was small things like oil leaks but that was only a few months ago. This was the best car I ever owned.
accountCircle Monica C on February 28, 2021
Cadillacs are not only luxurious but very comfortable.
We've had our vehicle for a few years already and never had to fix anything (other than regular maintenance). It is very comfortable for our family of four as well as when we have extra passengers. There's plenty of room. The TV's in the back keep our children occupied on long trips or busy days. Our car has automatic side steps that go in when the doors are closed so and out when the doors open, which is very helpful to short people like myself..
accountCircle Jordan M on February 21, 2021
Very nice and comfortable for the whole family.
It drives well. I think I will get a new car that is not as big as the escalade. It can sometimes feel like I am driving a big boat, especially on turns. It is really comfortable which is why I really like it a lot. Cars should be a good source of transportation for you and your family.
accountCircle Tonya H on February 12, 2021
It is one of the best luxury SUVs that you can buy
My escalade is a very reliable and safe vehicle to drive. It is not only a luxury automobile but it provides a level of safety unmatched. It is also American made and it made very well.
accountCircle Monica B on February 3, 2021
Love that it has TVs in the headrests to help keep children entertained.
It is extremely comfortable and spacious. All the features are very easy to use. Not as expensive as everyone thinks. Quite affordable considering the make of the vehicle. The only issue I have had with it is that a battery cable came loose and it wouldn't crank till the cable was tightened up. Very smooth ride and feel very little road imperfections. Highly recommend this type of vehicles for the busy working mom type of person.
accountCircle Teresa S on January 18, 2021
Car have a lot to f bells and whistles and can be an electrical nightmare.
Only had issue with fuel pump, top part of fuel pump for s made of plastics when new one was installed the top plastics parts broke off and it had to be replaced a second time.
accountCircle Ed Cox on January 15, 2021
Favorite Vehicle up to 150,000 miles !!!
Up to 150,000 miles I thought this truck was on clouds. Since 150,000, I have replaced the transmission, wheel bearings, front shafts, bcm, tcm, ecm, ground straps, along with multiple wiring shorts My advise, if yours is getting close trade it. Get a new one and start over but get rid of it because you will continue to throw money at it..
accountCircle Shawn M on January 13, 2021
It's a very safe vehicle that is very comfortable to ride in and easy to get in and out of
Like sits higher, technology, bright lights, looks good Dislike gas mileage
accountCircle Iris L on January 9, 2021
The most important others should know is that it uses up a lot of gas.
The vehicle is beautiful, roomy, navigational system,6 people seating other than driver but it uses to much gas.
accountCircle Brook R on January 6, 2021
The Escalade has good power. The Escalade is very spacious.
I like the power. It is spacious. I do not like the oil leak. I do not like the gas mileage.
accountCircle Hayley R on December 15, 2020
Cadillac Escalade 2007 love it.
I love it. Only downside is I wish I would have gotten the longer version. I have no issue with the vehicle itself though. I have a hard time fitting strollers and groceries at the same time in the back. I love the way it rides even when we are going through ruff spots in the road. Also we get pretty good gas mileage from something so big.
accountCircle Lillian Y on October 21, 2020
Fits short or tall drivers driver's adjustable.
It is a really reliable very comfortable and nice inside and out. You sit high or low, the pedal moves for what you would like it to be. Has backup cameras to make backing up very easy and helpful. It drive really nice and easy you can see all around you. Repairs are average not to expensive. Things last so only repairs on wear n tear. . Gas usage is not bad for a SUV has everything.
accountCircle Jean S on October 10, 2020
Heated steering wheel is the most interesting feature. I haven't seen it before.
I love the style of the car, the tires, the leather interior and wood trim inside. It's very clean looking. The features such as the heated seats and especially the heated steering wheel. It drives very smoothly. OnStar and Bluetooth calling are great! The automatic lift gate is also nice.
accountCircle Aurora D on September 29, 2020
Perfect small family vehicle.
Vehicle has 4 heated and cooled bucket seats. 3rd row seating. Bose surround sound. Auxiliary port. DVD player and back seat TV. V6 engine and all wheel drive. It is a big hefty truck and comfortable for my family of 4. I live in upper Michigan so it is convenient for harsh winters. The sunroof and air conditioning make summer drives a 'breeze' only thing that sucks is when something goes wrong it is very expensive to take care of and leaves us without transportation until we can afford to fix it.
accountCircle Becky J on September 25, 2020
It doesn't necessarily use as much gas as they think. It is a hybrid, so it actually doesn't use much at all when just sitting still.
I love it because it has everything that you could possibly ask for. The only thing I don't like is that it is really big and is hard to fit into some of the small parking areas.
accountCircle jen H on September 15, 2020
Low miles but not very nice running
Love the color...It's very rusted out so i hate that...Inside is cream color and i hate that
accountCircle Jennifer S on August 16, 2020
It is well taken care of and clean.
I love my escalade. It has plenty of room and has never given us trouble. It is hard to park though.
accountCircle marcus s on July 31, 2020
I would like people to know how reliable my car is.
I like the gas mileage that I get during my commute also the comfort during the time I'm driving and also the style.
accountCircle Nicholas on June 12, 2020
Great Drive
This Be Chile Has Aged Pretty Well And most people Think it looks like a 2014 Or Newer Making It Fell Always Modern!
accountCircle Michelle N on June 6, 2020
Great for a growing family
Love the vehicle. It is very comfortable and spacious. I feel safe in this large vehicle and has been very reliable. I am able to fit 3 kids under 4 in car seats and all of the stuff I need to bring with in the truck. I currently would love a newer version with new technology.
accountCircle Mariah D on May 22, 2020
The smoothness in the drive and the way you feel safe while driving.
I absolutely love the Cadillac Escalade one of the most reliable cars. Great in speed and performance. Such a smooth and luxury vehicle. The maintenance can be a bit pricey, But is one of the most safest cars I have been in. The Best feature is the space of room for the kids besides the trunk space is very small
accountCircle Claribel V on April 30, 2020
I like the space it has. Either the inside and in the trunk it runs smoothly!
Its not working in the moment but its my favorite to drive around. It goes on so smooth it is really my go to. Doesn't really even feel like a car when driving more like an airplane! Everyone in the household likes to drive it instead of the truck. It's so spacious I can have my baby's car seat and fits just perfect.
accountCircle Jo Y on April 24, 2020
It is getting older but it is good quality.
I like the size and the quality. There is nothing I dislike about it. It is reliable and has lasted me a while.
accountCircle Kimberly W on March 28, 2020
I love that it is roomy enough to haul all my grand kids.
I love the way the body of the vehicle is designed. It's sleek and luxury but sporty at the same time. There is plenty of space for passengers and packages. It's easy to drive and very comfortable. It looks great too.
accountCircle Tamara D on March 20, 2020
My very first SUV purchase and I love it!
I love my Escalade. I have never had any major problems out of the vehicle. It drives very smooth but does take a lot in gas. It's a great family vacation car. There is a third row for small children or one adult. It's not a lot of legroom for an adult. You could put those seats down and have plenty room for your luggage.
accountCircle Nancy C on March 16, 2020
Great full size SUV Love the backup camera! The mirrors automatically turn downward so you can see the curb
Great full size SUV, always runs great, has a lot of features that someday I will seek out how to use them all!
accountCircle Kathy E on February 26, 2020
Very reliable low maintenance.
Very comfortable easy smooth driving navigation heated steering wheel heated and cooling leather seats.
accountCircle Maree A on February 25, 2020
Cadillac Escalades - travel in comfort and style
The vehicle is solid and has been a wonderful car to have. We have had it since 2007 and it has served us well. We added 5 tv screens and it is so comfortable to travel in. As we hit 170k we have however found that many things are starting to break down
accountCircle Mark D on January 3, 2020
Beautiful family friendly car
This car is super great and reliable, we've had it for years now and has always been super dependable with little problems. Runs smoothly and quietly, and very spacious for our family of 6. The back is super roomy and great for big grocery trips and trips to the beach. Have always loved this car and highly recommend it to big families!
accountCircle Amber P on November 28, 2019
I like how big and roomy it is. I do not like how expensive gas is for it. It also has a few mechanical issues
It is a family vehicle and has plenty of room for family outings
accountCircle Danielle R on November 24, 2019
Room for my family and all their junk.
My truck has never let me down. It has needed regular wear and tear work, but that is to be expected. I love the space it provides for all my kids stuff, but I wish it had more trunk space without having to fold down the third row. I love that there is climate control both sides up front as well as for the back.
accountCircle Rea A on November 5, 2019
Great Mileage and Good Looks plus Runs Great and is comfortable!
I like the gray color. I like the Cadillac name. I like comfort of the car.
accountCircle Vivian D on October 20, 2019
Low mileage vehicle! Great family car!!
Interior is super clean and it is in great condition. Leather interior and white/beige color. No problems with vehicle whatsoever. Oil changes done regularly.
accountCircle Michelle L on October 17, 2019
Loving my truck lights around so they will see on the road at night good tires.
Parts cost a lot but driving good great for traveling because we have a 6 kid family plus a dog good on gas comfortable roomy air conditioning control you set it in each row equipment with GPS and OnStar sunroof cruise control we love this truck hope to pass it down to the oldest son.
accountCircle RON B on September 18, 2019
The aesthetic, the smooth ride, the handling.
I love my Cadillac escalade. I have had it for years and it always has performed well. My vehicle also has a beautiful overall aesthetic. I plan on keeping my Cadillac for many more years. When I ultimately trade it in, I will do so and get another Cadillac escalade.
accountCircle Julie D on August 9, 2019
It drives good you feel like you're floating on air
I love how it does a lot of things by itself. It practically tells you what's wrong with it
accountCircle Kelly J on July 10, 2019
Great ride in all weather conditions. Feel safe driving.
Great vehicle. Spacious for driver and second row. Leg room is tight in the third row. Feel safe driving.
accountCircle Gina L on June 29, 2019
I like the leather seats with warmers and coolers, the key start, the defrost on the outside mirrors
It has been a really reliable car. I have had little or no maintenance on it in the first 10 years. It has a lot of great bells and whistles
accountCircle Brooke A on June 27, 2019
Comfortable for the entire family.
We love our Cadillac escalade! Smooth ride, lots of room and extra features that most other cars do not have. Never had a problem with it and running. Great car for everyday use. Fits a family of 4 with a weekend full of stuff very comfortably. If you are on the fence, get one!
accountCircle Kenneth R on May 6, 2019
My car is dependable but soon it will be my second car because I plan on buying a new car real soon. I am buying a new car in a couple of months possibly one but definitely at least in two.
My vehicle is dependable and reliable. I bought my car used but it has that new car smell and new car feel. I love my car but I'm buying a new car in 2 months.
accountCircle Erika H on May 5, 2019
The first and best car I've owned.
The only issue that I have had with my car is gas prices. Just kidding. The care is very reliable as long as you maintain the vehicle. I part has been recalled and I got it fixed with no issue. The wheel bearing is very tricky. You must maintain them as the are very expensive.
accountCircle Marcia D on April 6, 2019
The V8 Beast from the Midwest. That can haul a huge family
Very comfortable ride and feels safe. Plenty of room for a large family. Seems to be pretty reliable vehicle comes with backup cam and optional GPS with OnStar and the whole works and a 6 disc CD shuttle. Gas mileage is not that great but what do you expect when your rocking a 6.2L 420 HP V8 Vortec Engine one thing is for sure this beast does not like to go slow
accountCircle A M on December 11, 2018
Love the space and the comfort.
Love it.. No problem. A lot of space. Convenient.. It takes a lot of gas.. But great when going on vacation. My kids have a lot of space to move around and my big stroller can fit in the trunk.. Love that it have a TV and backup camera. My mirror can lock in. And it remote start.
accountCircle Jay B on November 19, 2018
The FAST and loud SUV is perfect for you
The car has over 400 Horsepower and the SUV shifts very hard which is very cool you really get to feel the power and the sound is very nice to.
accountCircle latoya D on October 31, 2018
Very roomy uses regular gas and has great mileage.
The Cadillac escalade is a sturdy vehicle for long term usage with great mileage and engine. Great purchase.
accountCircle Hayden G on October 28, 2018
400 Horsepower and a lot of power to pulling raves and such.
There is no problems with the car the miles on the car are 80k plus miles and it goes through gas at a great rate compared to other big SUV and it cost us $22k I love the car because I step on the gas like crazy almost all the time when I drive I like the cream color on it.
accountCircle Valencia B on October 23, 2018
Cadillac Escalade ESV 2007
I love this car and the features. I have three toddlers and the ESV allows me to fit my kids and others for a trip to wherever. Very spacious.
avatar Gilbert Smith
Gilbert Smith is a New Mexico-based automotive journalist who enjoys writing about cars, trucks, and SUVs. He is a longtime contributor to Vehicle History and a member of the site's original content team when it launched.