2016 Monterey: Cadillac’s new Escala Concept previews brand’s design direction

Nobody likes a new car that seems outdated, which is why Cadillac is moving to evolve its current design language, starting with its latest concept from the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Named the Escala Concept, the latest and greatest design study from America’s top brass resembles an Audi A7 mockup, or a “shooting brake,” or a “four-door coupe…” Whatever you may call it, the Escala previews various design cues we could potentially see in future models. Caddy also labels the Escala Concept as a showcase for technology.

“Escala is a concept with two clear objectives,” said Johan de Nysschen in the press release, Cadillac’s president. “First, Escala is a statement of intent for the next iteration of the Cadillac design language, and also technical concepts in development for future Cadillac models. Secondly, Escala builds Cadillac’s aspirational character, signaling the brand’s return to the pinnacle of premium.”

The car itself isn’t remarkably revolutionary nor mind-blowing, but it is stately, conservative, and elegant. It’s designed in a way that where I can imagine it being on the road today and tomorrow, even in its current state.

Technology within the Escala ranges from the use of three curved OLED screens integrated throughout the cabin, acting as displays and control panels for the typical gauge cluster and center console. Like the Tesla Model S’s iPad-like center screen, the Escala’s center console is one entire unit. Within the screens exists a huge suite of apps and connectivity capabilities to enable smartphone integration, remote control functionality, gesture controls for the interior, and yes, autonomous driving tech.

The Cadillac Escala Concept receives power from an all-new twin-turbocharged 4.2-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Official power figures were not released.

Cadillac Escala Concept Basic Specifications

Model	Escala Concept
Body Style	4-door expressive flagship sedan, with lift-back rear opening
Height	57.3 in / 1455 mm
Width	76.7 in / 1948 mm
Length	210.5 in / 5347 mm
Wheelbase	127.1 in / 3228
Engine	4.2-liter Twin Turbo V8

– By: Chris Chin

Source: Cadillac

Photo Source: Cadillac