When you need an SUV, but you also need a pickup truck, and a luxury vehicle, there is really only one solution to your dilemma: the 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT.
This multi-purpose vehicle sports a monstrous 403-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 that spins its stump-pulling torque through a six-speed automatic transmission and on to an all-wheel drive system. Fuel economy data is not available for the EXT, but the standard Escalade achieves 13-14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. Power is superior to the Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150, and fuel economy should be competitive.
An upscale exterior highlighted by available 22-inch alloy wheels sets the standard for full-size luxury cruising. The convertible short/long pickup bed, separated by the industry exclusive (as shared with Chevy) Midgate, makes the visual statement that the Escalade EXT is ready for work. By exercising the Midgate you can switch from a five-foot-three bed to an eight-foot-two bed. There is 109 cubic feet of available cargo room, and you can take it all with you given the Escalade EXT’s 1,150-pound payload rating and 7,300-pound tow rating.
Inside, the Escalade EXT is loaded with amenities from a navigation system, dual zone automatic climate control, premium sound system, satellite radio and a CD changer to leather seats, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Great electronics features include a rearview camera, audio input jacks, Bluetooth compatibility, remote vehicle start and rear parking sensors. Fully-loaded models include a DVD entertainment system with eight-inch flip-down TV screen, the Ultraview Sunroof, heated steering wheel and power-retractable running boards. Also standard on the Luxury and Premium models are shock absorbers filled with magnetically-charged fluid; this suspension system features lightning-quick reaction times to adjust firmness for optimal ride quality and comfort as road conditions change.
Keeping passengers and other cargo safe are four-wheel antilock disc brakes with an electronic stability system. The stability system includes rollover prevention technology to help the 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT stay on its feet. When an accident is unavoidable, the available OnStar service will connect you to a call center that can coordinate emergency services. The Escalade’s big truck platform and full airbag package helps the EXT achieve Five-Star front impact ratings from NHTSA.
Power, flexible utility and uncompromising luxury make the 2010 Cadillac Escalade a most uniquely satisfying SUV.