Cadillac Escalade EXT

The Cadillac Escalade is a luxury SUV designed and distributed by Cadillac, General Motors’ luxury brand. It was the division’s original entry into the SUV market. The EXT version was introduced in 2002, which transformed the SUV into a sport utility truck with a bed. The Cadillac Escalade EXT was given a 7.5 rating from U.S. News, and ranked 7 out of 10 in the Full Size Pickup Truck category. Although it isn’t as capable as most full-size pickup trucks, it is one of the most fashionable and luxurious trucks available.

Performance

The EXT was given a 7.4 performance rating by U.S. News. Critics in general feel the truck offers an all-around strong performance. There is only one transmission and engine choice: a 6.2-liter V8 and six-speed automatic, which produces 403-horsepower. The V8 engine has gotten strong reviews from critics, who say it provides significant power to pass swiftly on the highway and get the truck moving from stop signs or lights. It offers a comfortable, controlled ride, which is not always found in a full-size truck. Critics say the brakes have a good feel and are firm. The truck can tow up to 7600 pounds, which is less than many full-size pickup trucks, but more than other luxury vehicles.

Interior

The Cadillac Escalade EXT received a 7.8 interior rating from U.S. News. Reviewers praised the upscale appearance, high-quality material, and comfortable seats, as well as the multiple standard features. The general consensus is that the EXT lives up to its luxury billing. It can seat up to five people, and comes standard with leather upholstery and cooled and heated front seats. Standard features include satellite radio, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, a backup camera, navigation, and an eight-speaker Bose stereo. Upper trims offer features such as a heated steering wheel, a power sunroof, blind-zone alert, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The EXT’s pickup bed allows for drivers to carry cargo, which is a huge upgrade from the conventional Escalade SUV.

Pros/Cons

The Cadillac Escalade EXT offers a very refined and smooth ride, even though it is heavy. The six-speed automatic transmission provides fast and timely shifts when necessary. The weight of the truck does impact its steering response time and handling, however, making it clumsy and sometimes awkward for city driving. The fuel economy is very weak, offering just 13 mpg for city driving and 18 mpg for highway driving, which are low numbers even for a full-size pickup. The features are easy to use, and the front seats are comfortable and spacious, although there have been some complaints about wind noise being transmitted into the cabin around the mirrors. The cost is also a huge negative, as it is much more expensive than other full size pickup trucks.

Other Features

The Cadillac website lists the starting price of the Cadillac Escalade EXT at $63 000, but buyers can expect to pay between $63 000 and $73 000 for the luxury truck. The truck maintains its traditional body-on-frame layout, which goes all the way back to the 2007 model. All models include head-curtain side airbags and front side airbags covering all three rows. It also offers a StabiliTrak stability control system which offers rollover mitigation. Although there is no safety rating from U.S. News yet, the EXT received solid safety scores. Other safety features include fog lamps, parking aid, tire pressure monitor, automatic crash response, and stolen vehicle assistance.