NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 Cadillac Escalade Esv
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
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.
Despite a strong crash-test showing, the 2026 Cadillac Escalade Esv carries a park-outside or stop-driving recall, so read the recall section first. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
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
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21829
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
WHEELS:HUB26V304000
Risk: A bolt that loosens or breaks during vehicle operation can result in loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front left and right wheel hub bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N262554630. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became sea
Reported 2026-05-14
POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)26V289000
Risk: Front or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recal
Reported 2026-05-07
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL26V114000
Risk: Without an owner's manual to consult, owners may not know how to safely use and operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N252540430. Vehicle
Reported 2026-02-26
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
4 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.