The details are trickling out about the all-new redesigned 2021 Cadillac Escalade, and enthusiasts are thrilled. This monster SUV already has the reputation of being the best of the best on the luxury stage. And this latest introduction is bringing huge upgrades. 

One addition came with a game-changing vendor partnership shift. And it also means adding 36 speakers to the Escalade experience. After all, who wouldn’t want to take the concert on the road, where the driver’s seat feels more like a front-row seat with your favorite artist?

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ditches Bose

When Cadillac considers partners for its available equipment, it’s not uncommon to assume that Bose represents the audio industry’s best. But for 2021, the luxury automaker ditches Bose and instead installs sound systems developed specifically for the Escalade by an Austrian audio specialist, AKG. 

Marketing Manager for Cadillac, Dave Schiavone, discusses the ‘why’ behind the change in a recent interview. He points out that AKG is a dynamic company overall and can offer exclusivity in technology, ideal for the Escalade’s reputation.

What AKG brings to the Cadillac Escalade

For anyone concerned that the 2021 Cadillac Escalade won’t come with the upscale and trusted Bose sound system, don’t worry. AKG’s system won’t disappoint. The standard level platform comes with 19 speakers and a massive subwoofer, powered by a 14-channel amp. 

If that doesn’t sound impressive, the second option may be even more music to your ears. Upgrade your Escalade to include the AKG Studio Reference system and crank tunes from 36 speakers. Enjoy three amplifiers with 28 channels for a unique audio experience.

Cool added features that enhance the driving experience

The 36-speaker experience makes loading up your favorite playlist feel like you’re sitting front-row at the concert. Cadillac says this design creates a completely immersive listening experience with sharp and crisp sound quality. But jamming out to your favorite artist isn’t all this audio platform is designed to do. 

It also offers a Conversation Enhancement mode, a tech that captures passengers’ voices and channels them throughout the speaker system. Meaning front and back row passengers won’t have to shout to have a conversation. Front passengers get their own volume knob, too.

What else is new for 2021?

There are plenty of other perks to consider if you’re not sold on the coolest sound system upgrade for the Escalade. As part of this 2021 redesign, the Escalade is offering more space for rear-seated passengers. The top of the line driver assistance features are coming too, including Cadillac’s Super Cruise. 

You’ll choose one of five Escalade trim levels, each offering a host of upscale touchpoints: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum, and Sport Platinum. Those who want diesel or prefer a four-wheel drive can have it. 

And anyone who needs modern interior refinement will enjoy the sleek curved glass that shields three OLED displays, a first of its kind in-vehicle technology. And the critics are already hailing the luxury SUV’s interior design and materials to be one of the best in this class.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade is going all in, and it’s clear this luxury SUV is ready to dominate the stage. It’s modern and capable and comes with all the extras you’ve come to expect. And the audio system alone demonstrates just how dedicated Cadillac is to the driving experience.

You can take your concert on the road, in ultimate comfort, and look good doing it, too. Base pricing starts at $76,195, and you’ll have your chance to drive one for yourself later this year when they arrive at your local dealership.