Overview & Reviews

The Cadillac Escalade EXT is a luxury pickup truck, which at first might come off as a strange vehicle classification. But when Cadillac revamped the Escalade in 2002, the company explored different ways to take advantage of the luxury SUV's street cred and runaway popularity. So it spun off the model every which way to maximize the Escalade badge -- hence, the EXT.

One part full-size luxury SUV and one part crew-cab pickup, the Escalade EXT makes for a uniquely useful high-end vehicle. Overwhelmingly massive and surprisingly functional, the EXT is, for some Cadillac fans, the ultimate Escalade.

Used Cadillac Escalade EXT Models
There were two generations of the Escalade EXT. The most recent was produced from 2007 through 2013. Mechanically related to the Chevrolet Avalanche of the same time period, this Cadillac Escalade EXT was typically available in three trim levels (base, Luxury and Premium) and one body style: a four-door crew-cab pickup.

From the rear doors forward, the Escalade EXT it is essentially a standard Escalade and is equipped with the same suspension and powertrain. The latter consists of a 6.2-liter V8 (403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque) mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. From the rear doors back, the EXT is a pickup. A special "Midgate" system allows greater cargo capacity -- the rear seats, rear window and rear bulkhead all fold down, which enables the transportation of longer items. An automatic tonneau cover protects cargo from the elements. The EXT is also equipped with 18-inch wheels, xenon headlights and automatic suspension damping.

Inside the cabin, the EXT is all luxury as leather upholstery, wood trim, heated seats, tri-zone climate control and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system all come standard. On later versions, a navigation system and a rearview camera were also included as standard. Moving up through the trim levels adds more luxuries such as a heated steering wheel, 22-inch chrome wheels, adaptive suspension, power-retracting side steps and a rear-seat entertainment system.

In road tests, we found that the Cadillac Escalade EXT offered a gratifying driving experience, especially for a large luxury truck/SUV. Given its size and mass, you'd expect some difficulty in the handling department, but the EXT's steering is light and predictable. By no means is it a nimble vehicle, but it's stable and controlled over all but extremely rough surfaces. With its big-time V8, acceleration is brisk from nearly any speed, which is remarkable for an SUV that weighs nearly 6,000 pounds. As one would expect, gas consumption is quite poor.

Changes throughout this generation's run were minimal. For the first two years, navigation was optional and several features were unavailable like the blind-spot warning system, satellite radio, Bluetooth and adaptive dampers with the 22-inch wheels. Prior to 2010, the EXT was only available in a single trim, while the USB audio port and the V8's cylinder-deactivation function (which boosted fuel economy by a single mpg) were not available.

The original 2002-'06 Cadillac Escalade EXT wasn't as refined as the newer model but it did establish itself with its innovative Midgate. It was powered by a smaller 6.0-liter V8 that made 345 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard. And while the second-gen EXT was equipped with rack-and-pinion steering, the first-gen model had a recirculating-ball setup, which meant the vehicle had a less responsive steering feel.

Because of a number of upgrades in 2003, passing on the '02 model might be wise. The '03 and up EXTs came with an improved interior, better safety equipment and new features like HID headlights and an optional rear-seat entertainment system. The power-operated tonneau cover first appeared in 2006.

User Reviews:

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  Sweet ride, but can be better - 2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By Rob - September 29 - 11:13 pm

  This is my second EXT and I think this truck looks and rides great. I kinda liked the "body armor" that the 05 had but Ill get used to it. As far as mileage, you dont buy a truck like this for economy. Still, Cadillac needs to stop cutting corners and go all out, we will buy it even if it cost more.

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  07 EXT - 2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By VogueTyre - September 10 - 5:06 pm

  The new EXT is bold and fresh. Chrome details really stick out give this vehicle a real wow factor. Not only is it fun to drive, but the EXT also serves some utility features as well. The power sidesteps are pretty neat also. If you really want to stand out and drive in the lap of luxury this vehicle is for you. As far as gas mileage goes, dont buy one if you will have trouble filling it up.

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  2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT - 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By Clarence Bell - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. Spacious and well appointed with the Cadillac rebates and special offer for DVD Navigation, Chrome Wheels and Sunroof. The paint is amazingly soft and smooth. The performance on this vehicle is almost legendary. The ride is smooth and solid. Steering effort is nearly sports car like, firm and responsive. The craftsmanship that went into construction is apparent. Closing the tailgate is like closing a refrigerator door, smooth and soft. Not clunky-cranky like an old pick- up.

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  Monster Truck - 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By laoilfinder - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus LX 470 previously as my SUV.... I wouldnt trade my Escalade EXT for either of them! Just finished a 850 mile road trip from New Orleans to North Carolina... The truck is a road warrior.... Very comfortable and powerful... Average fuel economy at 85mph cruise on interstates was 15.5mpg... Comparable to my previous SUVs...Have XM radio...love it. Navigation...great. Installed aftermarket (looks factory installed) in-roof DVD player for my boys... This truck is a head turner and a joy to drive and own.

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  High Price, High Pleasure! - 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By Jack Montgomery - July 21 - 2:00 am

  The "bigness" of the vehicle is a desireable feature -- not only the numerical dimensions, but the sense of a very comfortable "room on wheels." Greatest crossover for the tall driver. Its hauling capacity, both internal size, convenience and ease of space expansion, but also its towing muscle. Quiet as an ES300 (Lexus) and easy to control in snow and ice -- and off road. Wed do it again, despite the high price tag

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  THE BEAST OF ALL TRUCKS. - 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By Wilton - July 15 - 2:00 am

  ITS A CADILLAC. NO MORE QUESTIONS.

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  EXT - 2005 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By Al Ginolfi - June 25 - 1:16 pm

  Fun to drive, great acceleration and handling. Great styling.

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  TJs Review - 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By T. J. Ergin - March 8 - 2:00 am

  This SUT has the confort of a luxury sedan, the space of an SUV and the practicality of a truck. Kudos to the designers a GMC/Cadillac. I couldnt be happier with my decision.

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  This truck saved my life - 2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By docoakley - January 9 - 10:00 am

  I put about 7000 miles on the truck in three months before it became involved in an accident that totaled the truck, but allowed everyone to walk away from it with zero injuries. The truck is just a great, fun vehicle. I always had a smile on my face when I jumped in to go for a ride. By the way, yes, I currently have a 2005 on order!

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  Firefighter - 2003 Cadillac Escalade EXT
  By JOHN ALMEIDA JR. - January 5 - 9:06 pm

  I have never been in a vehicle that has made me feel so proud. This vehicle exemplifies class. There is no other truck that can make the transition that Cadillac did from luxury to truck.