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Overview:
Though it may look similar on the outside to its cousin the Chevrolet
Avalanche, GM's other Ultimate Utility Vehicle is a class leader
in luxury, technology, powertrain and handling.
The
Escalade EXT is a cross between a luxury SUV and a premium pickup
truck. The EXT offers the luxuries Cadillac customers expect, with
the extended cargo capabilities of a pickup truck.
Unmistakably
a Cadillac with its sheer, chiseled forms and bold styling. In its
standard configuration, EXT offers a roomy, luxurious, comfortable
five-passenger cab and a 5'3" (1.6 m) long cargo box.
Owners
requiring more cargo room can easily convert the reconfigurable
Midgate™ in a few minutes without any tools, extending the
bed to a full 8'1" (2.5 m). The Midgate™ folds into the
interior of the cab to create a 4' x 8' (1.2 m x 2.43 m) cargo area
to transport large items, from artwork to a large screen TV.
Items
are protected from the elements and theft by a standard three-piece
cargo cover and lockable tailgate.
The
EXT's rear window is removable to allow for additional cargo space
or for added air-circulation. The window is easily stowed on board
and works in conjunction with the Midgate™.
The
Escalade EXT also features full-time all-wheel-drive, a road-sensing
suspension and traction control for surefooting in all weather conditions.
The package provides superior handling and traction under all surface
conditions - whether on dry, slippery or poorly maintained roads
- by driving all four wheels, all the time and maintaining an optimum
38 percent/62 percent front-to-rear torque split. This offers the
best balance of handling characteristics under all operating conditions.
A high
output Vortec 6000 V8 based powertrain delivers strong acceleration,
relaxed cruising and quiet, durable operation while delivering best-in-class
power and performance.
The
best-in-class engine provides impressive low-end torque and exceptionally
strong, high, flat torque curves that deliver excellent pulling
power throughout their torque range.
Ultrasonic
Rear Parking Assist, combined with improved lighting and braking,
front side-impact air bags and premium level OnStar, complete the
Escalade EXT safety and security package.
Exterior
Design:
The Escalade EXT's bold design is representative of Cadillac's vision
of art and science and with its sibling the Escalade, are the first
production vehicles to articulate the new design vocabulary.
Escalade
EXT is available in three exterior colors: Pewter, Sable Black and
White Diamond, a pearlescent, tri-coat premium finish.
Interior
Design:
The interior is the luxurious environment you expect to find in
a Cadillac. All surfaces are covered in leather.
Look
for a substantial upgrade to the instrument panel and the addition
of an optional GPS console for the 2003 model year.
Powertrain:
The 2002 Escalade EXT will share the same powertrain as the AWD
Escalade SUV, Cadillac's exclusive version of the best-in-class
high-output V8 Vortec 6000.
The
engine links to a new Hydra-Matic 4L60-E HD (heavy-duty) electronically
controlled four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive.
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