General Motors has officially launched the new Cadillac Escalade in Korea, introducing a significant milestone as it becomes the first internal combustion model in the market to integrate the enhanced Super Cruise hands-free driving system. This release addresses the escalating demand for advanced driver-assistance technologies among consumers.
Pioneering advanced automotive technology, Super Cruise made its debut in 2017 as the industry’s inaugural hands-free driver-assistance system. This innovative feature empowers drivers to experience hands-off and feet-off driving on designated, pre-mapped highways, while crucially still demanding continuous driver attention. The system’s coverage in Korea extends across approximately 23,000 kilometers of highways and is globally integrated into 23 diverse GM models, encompassing both gasoline-powered and electric vehicles.
During a recent exclusive media test drive event, The Korea Herald had the opportunity to rigorously evaluate the Super Cruise system over an extensive 230-kilometer round trip, navigating the varied routes between Seoul and Gangwon Province.
Signified by a clear green indicator light on the steering wheel, the Cadillac Escalade effortlessly engaged hands-free driving mode on the highway. A particularly impressive feature demonstrated its sophisticated capability to execute automatic lane changes, seamlessly guiding the vehicle into the passing lane when encountering slower traffic.
Beyond lane management, the system intelligently adapts vehicle speed in real time, dynamically accelerating or decelerating in response to prevailing traffic conditions and posted speed limits, all while meticulously maintaining a safe and consistent following distance.
Despite its advanced capabilities, safety paramountly underpins the Super Cruise system. While facilitating hands-free operation, it rigorously mandates that drivers maintain unwavering attention at all times. An integrated sensor vigilantly monitors the driver’s focus, promptly issuing clear warnings — both visually via the display and through a prominent red light on the steering wheel — should driver attention waver for more than 10 seconds.
Remarkably, despite its substantial nearly 5.4-meter length, the Cadillac Escalade consistently delivers exceptionally stable and highly responsive performance. The vehicle maintained remarkable composure even at high speeds exceeding 120 kilometers per hour, a testament to its advanced engineering. This stability is critically supported by Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, which precisely analyzes road conditions an astounding 1,000 times per second, alongside a sophisticated adaptive air ride suspension system.
Furthermore, the new Escalade introduces thoughtful features specifically tailored for Korean drivers, enhancing the local driving experience. A standout integration is the TMap connected service, making its debut in a Cadillac vehicle. This innovative addition provides seamless access to crucial real-time traffic data and precise route guidance directly through the vehicle’s state-of-the-art infotainment system, eliminating the need for a separate smartphone connection.
Officially launched in February, the new Cadillac Escalade is available in two distinct variants to cater to diverse preferences: the standard model and the more expansive long-wheelbase ESV. These premium offerings are competitively priced at 168.07 million won (approximately $113,300 USD) and 190.07 million won, respectively.
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