MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Cadillac Escalade Esv

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

2Recalls
21Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV

The Cadillac Escalade ESV is the stretched, long-wheelbase version of GM's flagship full-size luxury SUV, competing at the top of a segment that includes the Lincoln Navigator L and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Built for buyers who want maximum interior space, a commanding road presence, and premium amenities, it draws a loyal following among families, executives, and livery operators who refuse to compromise on size or status.

VERDICT

The 2020 Cadillac Escalade Esv earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 79 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally praise the Escalade ESV for its imposing road presence, lavish interior, and the confidence-inspiring tech suite found on higher trims. Most acknowledge it as a benchmark in full-size luxury SUVs for comfort and feature content, while noting that its size and truck-based platform create handling trade-offs that buyers in this segment typically accept as part of the ownership proposition.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

OverallNot rated
FrontalNot rated
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 21.2%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14187

Index breakdown

Crash protection57.6/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record15.75/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

TIRES21V115000

Risk: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.

Reported 2021-02-25

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP19V837000

Risk: Over-pressurization can crack the fuel pump and cause leaks, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2019. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192283991.

Reported 2019-11-21

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

21 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

3reported crash
0reported fire
3reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 14Air Bags 4Wheels 4Fuel/Propulsion System 3Structure 2Electrical System 1

Other Escalade Esv years

Rivals in SUV (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 14187), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Cadillac Escalade Esv 2020. Class rank 78 of 107 in SUV 2020. Methodology · Disclosure