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Owner Review: 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV Premium Luxury – Driving

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3 years ago

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In early February, Mike Kwiatkowski and partner Rachael Tweedy picked up a brand new 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV Premium. The Calgarians are married to the concept of a large SUV, because together, they have a blended family that includes a pair of seven-year-olds, an eight-year-old and a 10-year-old – two boys and two girls.

The family takes plenty of road trips, hauling either a holiday trailer, a 22-foot boat or a unit carrying dirt bikes and quads. To ride, the family often heads to the McLean Creek off-highway vehicle area just southwest of Calgary.

“Every other weekend we’re out on the road,” Kwiatkowski says, and adds, “hauling is a priority.”

Prior to the brand-new Cadillac, Kwiatkowski has had two other Escalades, both standard-length versions. One was a 2018, the other a 2015. Before he moved over to GM, Kwiatkowski maintained a 2012 Ford Expedition. He did take a quick look at the Lincoln Navigator before deciding to upgrade to another Cadillac, however.

“The Navigator is a gorgeous vehicle, but the Cadillac took it out, in my opinion,” he says. “Quality in the Navigator is phenomenal, but the Cadillac is something else.”

Redesigned for 2021 and now in its fifth generation, the Escalade is all-new. It’s been altered with a fresh new grille and headlights. Kwiatkowski likes the new style, and says the SUV has been given a more subdued, yet more refined presence.

“It’s not as aggressive looking, it’s toned down, and it looks sleeker with the horizontal headlights,” he explains.

Tweedy’s opinion about the softened exterior is somewhat different. She preferred the boxier lines of the fourth-generation Escalade.

“The new one is more rounded and softer-looking,” she says. “It wouldn’t have been my first choice to make that alteration, I think the older version was a better style.”

Kwiatkowski and Tweedy alternate which vehicle they drive — the other family car is a 2018 Acura MDX — but Tweedy estimates she’s behind the wheel of the Cadillac about 40 per cent of the time.

“I often have all the kids with me, and the new Escalade is much more spacious than the older model. The new one has so much more legroom in the third row, and with four growing kids it’s nice they all have ample room,” Tweedy says.

GM has dispensed with the traditional solid rear axle and moved to an independent rear suspension system. This created a deeper footwell area for third-row passengers.

“It’s like a swimming pool back there,” Kwiatkowski jokes. “That much more room is a game changer, for sure.”

Plus, their brand-new Escalade is the ESV version – which means it has an overall length of 5,766mm versus the standard Escalade’s 5,382mm.

“With the third-row seats up, there’s room for all of our luggage in the cargo area,” Kwiatkowski says. And he points out, “The second-row seats in the old Escalade didn’t slide, but they do now and that makes a big difference for adjusting them for the best legroom. There’s nothing else out there that comes close to the comfort of this truck.”

One of the biggest changes in the fifth-generation Escalade is the curved organic light emitting diode, or OLED, display. This is a massive 38-inch (on the diagonal) screen that replaces the traditional instrument cluster, and more. It consists of three distinct screens, including a driver information centre, a ‘cluster’ display behind the steering wheel and an infotainment screen.

“It’s a huge digital dash,” Tweedy says, and Kwiatkowski adds, “It’s the most distinctive thing you see when you first get in the vehicle.”

Tweedy says she’s still getting used to the display. “If you’re coming from a traditional vehicle with a regular dash, this is quite large and colourful – it could be distracting if you’re not used to it.”

The screen allows for augmented reality-enabled navigation, where the Escalade’s cameras show a live road view overlaid with directional instructions. An option is GM’s Night Vision, a feature that uses infrared technology to pick up heat signatures of pedestrians or animals, and displays the image on the centre screen.

“I think it’s a useless option,” Kwiatkowski says, but Tweedy has a different opinion. “I feel it’s a nice safety feature, as it picks up people or wildlife and it allows me to see where I can’t see. I’m not particularly comfortable driving at night, and living on an acreage outside the city, it’s so dark. Often, people are walking their dog on the shoulder of the road, and if I’m struggling to see in the dark, it’s nice to have that warning they are there.”

Cadillac’s powertrain is a 6.2-litre V8 that makes 420 horsepower mated to a 10-speed transmission. It offers plenty of power for their needs, and it’s a powerplant the couple are familiar with. A 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine is available for the first time in the Escalade, but Kwiatkowski stuck with what he knows best.

It’s over the top in sound quality.

Both were wary of the new ‘joystick’ gearshift control. They say it’s counterintuitive to operate, pushing forward to engage reverse, and pulling back to engage drive. But Tweedy says, “It’s an impressive premium luxury vehicle, and the white glove service we get at Carter Cadillac is very much appreciated.”

In just over a month of ownership, more than 3,000 kilometres have been added to the Escalade. Other favourite features include the 36-speaker AKG premium sound system. “It’s over the top in sound quality,” Kwiatkowski says, and Tweedy enjoys the conversation enhancement feature that allows the family to carry on a conversation without raising their voices to be heard.

Parking aids, such as the rear camera mirror, are employed often by Tweedy as she backs into a space at work. She adds, “The aids would be beneficial in any parking garage – at the airport, any mall or parkade – it’s such a big vehicle, and typically those spots are small.”

Summing up, Tweedy has the final word. She says, “I was hesitant about driving the extended model, but it’s surprisingly agile. It’s a big vehicle, but it’s not cumbersome and there’s enough technology to assist a driver both on the road and in parking situations.”

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How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

Published

3 days ago

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September 10, 2024

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Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

  • Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
  • Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
  • Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

  • Best Buy Canada
  • Walmart Canada
  • EB Games (GameStop)
  • Amazon Canada
  • The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

  • Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
  • Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
  • Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

  • Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
  • Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

  • Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
  • Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
  • Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

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Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

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3 days ago

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September 10, 2024

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Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

  • Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
  • Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
  • AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
  • Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
  • VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

  • Alan Wake 2
  • Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
  • Demon’s Souls
  • Dragon’s Dogma 2
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Gran Turismo 7
  • Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
  • Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
  • Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

 

 

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

  • $699.99 USD
  • $949.99 CAD
  • £699.99 GBP
  • €799.99 EUR
  • ¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

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Google Unveils AI-Powered Pixel 9 Lineup Ahead of Apple’s iPhone 16 Release

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1 month ago

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August 13, 2024

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Google has launched its next generation of Pixel phones, setting the stage for a head-to-head competition with Apple as both tech giants aim to integrate more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features into their flagship devices. The unveiling took place near Google’s Mountain View headquarters, marking an early debut for the Pixel 9 lineup, which is designed to showcase the latest advancements in AI technology.

The Pixel 9 series, although a minor player in global smartphone sales, is a crucial platform for Google to demonstrate the cutting-edge capabilities of its Android operating system. With AI at the core of its strategy, Google is positioning the Pixel 9 phones as vessels for the transformative potential of AI, a trend that is expected to revolutionize the way people interact with technology.

Rick Osterloh, Google’s senior vice president overseeing the Pixel phones, emphasized the company’s commitment to AI, stating, “We are obsessed with the idea that AI can make life easier and more productive for people.” This echoes the narrative Apple is likely to push when it unveils its iPhone 16, which is also expected to feature advanced AI capabilities.

The Pixel 9 lineup will be the first to fully integrate Google’s Gemini AI technology, designed to enhance user experience through more natural, conversational interactions. The Gemini assistant, which features 10 different human-like voices, can perform a wide array of tasks, particularly if users allow access to their emails and documents.

In an on-stage demonstration, the Gemini assistant showcased its ability to generate creative ideas and even analyze images, although it did experience some hiccups when asked to identify a concert poster for singer Sabrina Carpenter.

To support these AI-driven features, Google has equipped the Pixel 9 with a special chip that enables many AI processes to be handled directly on the device. This not only improves performance but also enhances user privacy and security by reducing the need to send data to remote servers.

Google’s aggressive push into AI with the Pixel 9 comes as Apple prepares to unveil its iPhone 16, which is expected to feature its own AI advancements. However, Google’s decision to offer a one-year free subscription to its advanced Gemini Assistant, valued at $240, may pressure Apple to reconsider any plans to charge for its AI services.

The standard Pixel 9 will be priced at $800, a $100 increase from last year, while the Pixel 9 Pro will range between $1,000 and $1,100, depending on the model. Google also announced the next iteration of its foldable Pixel phone, priced at $1,800.

In addition to the new Pixel phones, Google also revealed updates to its Pixel Watch and wireless earbuds, directly challenging Apple’s dominance in the wearable tech market. These products, like the Pixel 9, are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google’s AI-driven ecosystem.

Google’s event took place against the backdrop of a significant legal challenge, with a judge recently ruling that its search engine constitutes an illegal monopoly. This ruling could lead to further court proceedings that may force Google to make significant changes to its business practices, potentially impacting its Android software or other key components of its $2 trillion empire.

Despite these legal hurdles, Google is pressing forward with its vision of an AI-powered future, using its latest devices to showcase what it believes will be the next big leap in technology. As the battle for AI supremacy heats up, consumers can expect both Google and Apple to push the boundaries of what their devices can do, making the choice between them more compelling than ever.

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