The 2008 Cadillac Escalade ESV is the largest of Escalade sport utility vehicles, offering maximum passenger accommodation and cargo capacity. Combining power, size and strength with trademark Cadillac styling and technology, it has strongly positioned Cadillac in the large, luxury SUV market.

The 6.2-liter V-8 producing 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque is exclusive to the Cadillac Escalade family. The all-aluminum engine uses variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize camshaft timing and improve low-rpm torque as well as high-rpm horsepower. The introduction of variable valve timing through the unique, dual-equal cam phaser is the industry's first application of VVT on a mass-produced V-8 overhead-valve engine. A Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 6.2L engine.

The Cadillac Escalade ESV is 20.4 inches longer than the Escalade, translating into more premium seating and cargo-carrying capability. It features all the elements and features of the standard Escalade, but adds a DVD system and set of headphones with an eight-inch-large flip-down screen for third-row passengers (when the available rear seat entertainment system is selected). The wraparound fascias, styled mirrors and integrated running boards enhance Escalade's flowing design, oddly combining aggression with elegance.

Cadillac Escalade ESV is designed to be among the industry's safest and most secure vehicles, with numerous safety systems and crash-avoidance technologies. Features for occupant protection include head curtain side air bags with rollover protection for all seating rows; and an industry-first, 360-degree front safety belt pretensioner activation system. In keeping with Cadillac's reputation for advanced technology, the OnStar-equipped Escalade models have turn-by-turn navigation, which is the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar.