1999 Cadillac Escalade

The Escalade used the same 5.7 liter Vortec 5700 V8 at 255 horsepower as found in all other GMT400 based models, which was underpowered compared to the Navigator's 300 horsepower. All first generation Escalades and Denalis featured Auto Trac selectable four wheel drive, and the vehicle was available only in the short wheelbase four door wagon configuration. The only exterior differences from the GMC Yukon Denali, other than badging, were a slightly different grille treatment and smooth cladding. The Escalade was introduced for the 1999 model year, only ten months after the project was approved.