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Those of us who were part of the MTV generation will no doubt recognise the nameplate, but the new 2015 Cadillac Escalade, although still an imposing leviathan, has left its backwards-facing cap and baggy trousers at home to hit the town in a more presentable suit and tie - still with a little bit of bling, of course.

For all its 20- or 22-inch alloys, 'stacked' LED headlamps and mammoth chromed grille, Cadillac is keen to draw your attention to the new Escalade's interior. Cut-and-sewn and wrapped materials, along with expensive-looking wood trim, are sprinkled amidst a waterfall-design centre console that cradles a eight-inch CUE infotainment system. There's also a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display and ambient lighting.

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Buyers can choose from the standard Escalade or the extended-length ESV version, which offers a 355-mm longer wheelbase and around 508 mm more in overall length, yielding more space in the third row and 60% more cargo space behind it.

The new Cadillac Escalade is powered by a 6.2 litre EcoTec3 V8 that develops 420 bhp and 624 Nm of torque. Transmission is taken care of by a six-speed auto and four-wheel drive is optional. Magnetic Ride Control, which the company claims is the world's fastest-reacting suspension system, is now standard.