If you have booked a chauffeured Cadillac Escalade, you will be riding in one of the most comfortable and spacious luxury SUVs on the road. The current Escalade has three rows of seats, usually with two second-row captain’s chairs, a third row that adults can use on shorter trips, and a cargo area that takes several suitcases. Here is how to make the most of it.

How the seats are arranged

Most chauffeured Escalades are configured with:

  • Front row: driver and one passenger (usually left empty for comfort, or used by the group’s lead passenger).
  • Second row: two individual captain’s chairs with armrests, heating and, often, ventilation. There is a walkway between them to reach the third row.
  • Third row: a bench for two or three people. Since the 2021 redesign, the third row has genuinely adult-usable legroom thanks to the lower floor enabled by independent rear suspension.

That’s why a chauffeured Escalade is typically booked for up to six passengers: two in the second row, three in the third and one up front, with luggage behind. Read about seat layouts in captain’s chairs vs bench seats.

The best seats

For one or two passengers, the second-row captain’s chairs are the most comfortable seats in the vehicle — the equivalent of business class. The right-side seat gives you a curbside exit. For groups, put taller passengers in the second row and use the third row for shorter trips or younger travelers.

Luggage

With the third row folded, the Escalade has an enormous cargo area. With all seats in use, space is more limited:

  • Standard Escalade: a few carry-ons and two or three medium suitcases behind the third row.
  • Escalade ESV: considerably more — often a full-size bag per passenger.

When you book, let us know how many bags, especially for international arrivals or ski trips. See our luggage capacity guide.

Comfort features

  • Separate rear climate controls, so the second row can set its own temperature.
  • Heated and ventilated seats in the first and second rows.
  • Rear entertainment screens and plenty of USB-C charging ports.
  • Privacy glass in the rear windows.
  • An AKG sound system that can be quiet enough for calls.
  • Running boards that make it easy to step up into the cabin.

Getting in and out

The Escalade sits higher than a sedan. Use the running board and the grab handles; your chauffeur will open the door and assist with luggage. In New York City, your chauffeur will stop curbside wherever it is legal and safe, so you exit onto the sidewalk.

Seat belts and children

Everyone must buckle up — New York requires rear-seat passengers 16 and older to wear seat belts, and New Jersey requires it too. If you are traveling with young children, request child seats in advance; see our guide to child car seats in car service.

Book an Escalade

The Escalade is ideal for families, executive groups, airport transfers with luggage and VIP arrivals. See ours on the Cadillac Escalade page or book an airport transfer.