EDMUNDS.COM 2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE EXT
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
It''s gaudy, expensive and sucks gas like a ''70s Eldorado, yet somehow manages to retain a level of desirability we can''t quite figure out.
Pros
Huge power from its big V8, solid handling for its size, innovative packaging offers excellent utility, features galore.
Cons
Poor fuel mileage, a few noticeable instances of cost-cutting, steep price tag.
What''s New for 2004
For 2004, the EXT adds XM Satellite Radio, a tire-pressure monitoring system and a towing package as standard equipment. The rear-seat entertainment system and sunroof can now be ordered together. Quicksilver and Red E are new exterior colors, while Silver Sand and Green Envy are no longer available.
Overview
Introduction:
When the original Escalade was introduced in 1999, the Cadillac faithful were a little nervous. The idea of a truck bearing the Cadillac wreath and crest just didn''t seem like it had much promise. And then there was the vehicle itself, an underpowered, overclad behemoth that used heavy doses of leather and wood trim to conceal the fact that underneath it was nothing more than a slightly reworked Chevrolet Tahoe. But to everyone''s surprise, the Escalade sold well. The public''s insatiable thirst for SUVs overcame the original vehicle''s initial mediocrity to make it one of the best-selling models in Cadillac''s lineup.Looking to further benefit from consumer demand, Cadillac brought out the Escalade EXT in 2002. Essentially a standard Escalade from the rear doors forward, the EXT utilizes all the same suspension and powertrain components as the standard model. But like its cousin, the Chevrolet Avalanche, the EXT adds an extendable utility bed that gives it a half truck/half sport-ute character that makes it stand alone in the realm of luxury vehicles. The idea of such a utilitarian Cadillac might seem a little strange, but it''s the automotive equivalent of getting your cake and eating it too. Its powerful V8 delivers excellent performance while the luxurious interior pampers passengers with amenities galore. Add in the utility of having a real full-size pickup bed when you need it and the EXT suddenly doesn''t seem so outrageous.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
In keeping with its premium image, the Escalade EXT comes in only one trim level. The standard feature list is extensive, including everything from electronic stability control to a thundering Bose audio system. Both leather-upholstered front seats are heated and offer 10-way power adjustment. Additional standard equipment for ''04 models includes XM Satellite Radio, a towing package and a tire-pressure monitoring system. A rear-seat DVD entertainment system, DVD-based navigation system and chrome wheels are available options.
Powertrains and Performance:
Unlike the standard Escalade that offers a choice of two- or all-wheel drive, the EXT comes in AWD only. The only available engine is the high-output 6.0-liter V8 that boasts 345 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. A heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmission takes care of the shifting. As you might expect, the powerful V8 moves the big sport-ute with little hesitation, but those looking for the quiet, refined power plant might find it a little raucous at higher rpm. The transmission downshifts quickly and rarely fails to provide crisp, clean upshifts under acceleration. The EXT''s maximum towing capacity is 7,400 pounds.
Safety:
All EXTs come standard with the StabiliTrak stability control system as well as four-wheel antilock disc brakes, side airbags for the driver and front passenger and the OnStar communications system. A standard tire-pressure monitoring system has been added this year to alert drivers of abnormally low pressures that could result in a blowout. Other key safety items include high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights and rear parking sensors.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
Like the standard Escalade, the EXT features an extensive array of luxury amenities. Soft leather covers nearly every inch of the cabin, while wood accents grace the steering wheel, dashboard and door handles. The dashboard and instrument panel were redesigned last year for a "cleaner" look, but we think the previous design was a bit more distinctive. Of course, the EXT''s most unique feature is the convertible Midgate, a removable partition between the rear seats and the utility bed allows you to extend the bed from a bit over 5 feet to a full 8 feet with just a few latches. It''s a snap to use and it gives the EXT a level of utility that no other luxury sport-ute can match. When you''re not using the extra bed length, this Cadillac can seat four or five passengers in comfort.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Despite its bulky size, the EXT is a competent handler. Body roll is kept well under control, and the continuous adjustments made by the standard Road Sensing Suspension maintain an excellent balance between ride quality and road feel. The steering can feel a bit detached on the highway, but it lightens up nicely during low-speed maneuvers. The massive Vortec V8 provides ample passing power while the four-speed automatic transmission does an excellent job of choosing the right gears. Overall, the EXT is a very comfortable and competent cruiser that might surprise you with its agility around corners.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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