Cadillac’s quest to remake both its product line and image took another step forward with the introduction of the Escalade EXT. This Chevrolet Avalanche in a tux is the newest entry (Sport Utility Truck) corner of the market. The SUTs are a new class of vehicle promising to deliver more than what a simple crew-cab pickup can offer. The balance is tipped more in favor of SUV comfort than pickup utility, especially in the case of the EXT, but GM’s offerings definitely have their practical side. Cadillac’s research shows that nearly a quarter of their customers own full-size pickups, so the cargo box had to be more than an afterthought.
The driving line between truck and SUV is the EXT’s “midgate” feature. The midgate separates the rear seats from the cargo box and can be folded to open up an 8-ft. 1-in, bed. With the midgate up, the EXT’s bed measures 5 ft 3-in. The rear window is removable, allowing the EXT to be opened up further for old-shaped items, or to just catch some breezes. The cargo box itself is a combination of steel and a composite material, with a standard rubber bed mat.
Two lockable storage containers mounted along the sides of the cargo box add utility. The EXT also comes with a 3-piece cargo cover and locking tailgate to further shield and contents of the bed. The EXT comes with Cadillac’s usual package of luxuries such as the OnStar system, ultrasonic rear parking assist, electronic climate control and handsome 17-in. alloy wheels.
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