CAR /
FEATURES
February 28, 2022
A Day with Cadillac for Noteworthy Creators—Escalade × Tomoyuki Tanaka & Yoichiro Maeda | Cadillac
Powerful and incredibly smooth ride
As they entered the Shuto Expressway and picked up speed, the relaxed feeling induced by the high driving position and Cadillac's signature comfortable ride prompted their attention to shift towards the interior. Tanaka, a fan of British cars, initiated the conversation.
The instrument panel is finished with high-quality leather and wood, creating a luxurious yet chic interior.
“The wood on the instrument panel is reminiscent of British cars. As an established American luxury vehicle, the Escalade shares a certain sensibility with British cars. Still, the sense of luxury is distinct from that of a Rolls-Royce.” (Tanaka)
“The stitching pattern and design on the leather seats are called 'Mondrian Quilting'.” (Maeda)
“Ah, that’s right. The Cadillac emblem was inspired by Mondrian compositions.” (Tanaka)
“The name Cadillac itself comes from a French explorer, so from an American perspective, it carries a nuance of European continental allure.” (Maeda)
Both Tanaka and Maeda usually drive European cars, but they both agreed that switching to the Escalade would feel perfectly natural.
“However, compared to a 7-seater European SUV, the third-row seats are spacious enough for adults to sit comfortably. The second-row seats are separate, and there's ample space between them, making it easy to access the third row without folding the second row.” (Tanaka)
“And the infotainment system is incredible, isn’t it? The driver’s area features a 38-inch curved OLED screen integrating the instrument panel and center display. Plus, the second-row seats each have individual displays with HDMI ports and dedicated headphones.” (Maeda)
“Children can play games or watch DVDs during the drive, and adults could connect their laptops for presentations.” (Tanaka)
The Escalade's in-car audio system is by AKG, featuring a 3D surround system with 36 speakers. Naturally, Maeda was curious about the opinion of Tanaka, a sound professional.
“Although AKG is now a prestigious Austrian brand under Harman International, an American audio equipment manufacturer, this is reportedly their first venture into car audio. Tanaka, what do you think of the sound?” (Maeda)
“With numerous speakers strategically placed, even overhead at each seat, the sound frequencies are separated and clearly audible within the car. AKG is a brand I associate with recording microphones, so their expertise is evident.” (Tanaka)
“It’s not the typical bass-heavy, treble-boosted 'donshari' sound common in car audio. Does it suit genres other than jazz and rock?” (Maeda)
“Yes, it would reproduce classical and hip-hop beautifully.” (Tanaka)
After a brief stop at Umihotaru on the Aqua-Line, Tanaka took the driver's seat and they set off again. The sheer dynamic quality, only truly appreciated when at the wheel, brought a smile to Tanaka's face.
They enjoyed the smooth ride and the views of Tokyo Bay on the Aqua-Line.
“This… the acceleration and cruising are powerful yet incredibly smooth. I’m surprised by how much more refined and easier to handle it feels compared to the V8 in my DB7 (laughs). Is the engine naturally aspirated?” (Tanaka)
“Yes. It’s a 6.2-liter V8 unit, which is becoming rare these days.” (Maeda)
“That’s indeed rare.” (Tanaka)
“Furthermore, when the engine load is low, the cylinder deactivation system engages, allowing up to four cylinders to shut off, so it can run on four or even two cylinders. I imagine it operates during highway cruising like now, but I didn’t notice any transition. Did you?” (Maeda)
“Really? I didn’t notice any change at all. So, the fuel economy…?” (Tanaka)
“So far, driving through the city and on the Shuto Expressway without focusing on fuel economy, the average is 5.8 km/L. For reference, the vehicle weighs just over 2.7 tons.” (Maeda)
“That’s impressive. And full-size SUVs from European manufacturers are quite expensive these days, aren’t they? But the Escalade is just under 16 million yen…” (Tanaka)
“It’s no wonder it sells.” (Maeda)