The arrival of the Cadillac Escalade V for the 2023 model year turned heads with its thunderous roar, an audacious statement in the world of luxury SUVs. However, the 2025 refresh of this powerhouse has introduced a surprising twist: it’s noticeably quieter. This shift stems not from changes to the hardware itself, but rather a deliberate modification in exhaust tuning.
During a week-long road trip, both myself and my companion Philip experienced the 2025 Cadillac Escalade V firsthand, and we both sensed the difference. Cadillac spokesperson Michael Albano confirmed to The Drive that this new iteration has been designed to be quieter than its predecessor due to updated exhaust tuning, which he humorously described as having been “turned down to an 11.”
Despite this tuning adjustment, the vehicle still retains much of its signature loudness, especially with its impressive thunderclap upon cold starts and a menacing burble at idle. These attributes are still intact, ensuring that those yearning for a performance-driven driving experience won’t be disappointed.
The quieter operation is aimed at enhancing overall refinement, with no alterations made to the actual exhaust hardware. The improvements extend to the Escalade V’s active noise cancellation system, which has been retuned for a more sophisticated experience. Feedback from passengers suggests that the cabin is significantly quieter during highway cruising, particularly for those seated in the second row. Philip, after an extensive 700-mile journey in both the 2023 and 2025 models, confirmed this transformation.
For those seeking to rattle windows and awaken the neighborhood, fear not—this SUV still delivers a thrill. Philip pointed out that even while idling, the Escalade V draws attention, stating, “We heard you long before we saw you come down around the curve.” The vehicle’s performance mode retains that explosive sound profile, allowing for the kind of bold presence expected from a vehicle of its stature.
Overall, while the Cadillac Escalade V has indeed been refined for a quieter ride that enhances passenger comfort, it maintains its character as a powerful SUV capable of making an impression on the road.