ArcaMax

The Infiniti QX80's standard V8 displaces a comparatively small-fry 5.6 liters. And the poor old Navigator - actually, the poor new Navigator - comes standard with a V6 that's only about half the size (3.5 liters) of the Caddy's V8 and which makes a comparatively puny 380 hp.

However, the Lincoln does have a higher maximum tow rating (9,000 lbs.) which may be a function of its turbo'd V6 producing its max torque - the same 460 ft.-lbs. as the Caddy - sooner. The EcoBoosted Lincoln's peak occurs at just 2,500 RPM vs. 4,100 RPM for the Escalade's V8.

A word about "4WD": The Caddy's system does not have a two-speed transfer case or 4WD Low range gearing. That plus those 22-inch rims and short sidewall sport tires are not the ticket for snow-day driving. Think twice about wet grass, too. The Lincoln Navigator's optional "4WD" system is similarly light-duty, with no Low range gearing.

If you need off-road capability, check the Infiniti QX. As of this writing in mid-summer 2015, it is the only super-sized SUV you can still buy that has a 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case and Low range gearing.

ON THE ROAD

The Escaade is kind of like Mr. T in Rocky III. Mean and surly. Eye of the tiger. Its Corvette-sourced 6.2 liter V-8's 460 ft.-lbs. of torque (and 420 hp) is pure delicious overkill. You could probably pull a spark plug wire, run the thing on seven cylinders - and still outrun the Navigator. And on the highway, thanks to the eight-speed automatic's deep overdrive gearing, the revs at 75 are just over 2,000. This makes it feasible to travel almost 550 miles on 26 gallons of fuel. That's about as far as a Prius will go on a full tank, by the way.

I was able to truck down to Raleigh, NC from my home base in the Roanoke, VA. area - a trip of about 250 miles - without stopping for fuel on the trip down - or back. And the Escalade's passing power at 70 is (trust me) much superior to that of the Prius.

The ride - especially Limited (and up) models with the 22 inch wheel/tire package - is stiff. Which is to be expected, because there's just not much give or cushion available when your tires' sidewalls are only about two inches high. These "rims" are the vehicular equivalent of holding a Glock sideways. Maybe it's stylish - but it's functionally pretty stupid. Gnomesayin'?

The huge wheels also increase rolling resistance. With less obstreperous "rims," the Escalade would be even quicker and - not that anyone cares at this price point - probably get better gas mileage, too.

The Navigator comes standard with more functionally sensible 18 inch wheels - and not surprisingly, has a much softer, more luxurious ride.

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