The 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT is perhaps the only luxury sport utility truck on the market, and is equipped with many features that make it distinctly unique.
Engine
Under the hood lays a solid 6.2 liter V8 engine with 403 horsepower and 417 torque. All three trim options on this sport utility truck come with all wheel drive and a six speed automatic transmission.
This truck can tow up to a maximum of 7,600 pounds, with the advantage of keep the passengers surrounded in maximum comfort at the same time. The improved suspension leads to better handling than other SUV trucks as well. Fuel consumption is reasonable considering this vehicle’s total weight is 6,000 pounds; it averages 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg in the highway.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV Crew Cab | Base Price: $63,060.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117l) | MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy |
| Length: 222 in. (563.8 cm) | Wheel Base: 130 in. (330.2 cm) |
| Height: 74.5 in. (189.2 cm) | Width: 79.1 in. (200.9 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 5858 lbs (2657 kg) | Ground Clearance: 9.2 in. (23.3 cm) |
| Max Cargo Capacity: 101 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: Vortec® V8 VVT AWD | Displacement: 6.2 Liter |
| Horsepower: 403 HP | Max RPM: 5700 RPM |
| Torque: 417 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| Max Towing Capacity: 7600 lbs (3447 kgs) | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:Luxury | MSRP: $67,250; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:Premium | MSRP: $69,640; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy |
Interior
The interior is much quieter than earlier Escalade models with new special noise reduction glass windows, and rear privacy glass in the back further minimizes disturbances. With a five person capacity, this SUV truck has plenty of legroom and headroom for everyone.
The leather seats have built-in heating and cooling features, and in the front, the seats can be adjusted in 14 different ways. A complimentary satellite radio subscription for three months is also included with the new navigation system.
Exterior
The luxury trim of the EXT comes with 22 inch chrome alloy wheels, and the option of power retractable steps can also be added for further convenience. Exterior color choices include: Black Raven, Radiant Silver Metallic, or Diamond Tricoat.
Reliability
This vehicle is covered under warranty from bumper to bumper for up to four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain has even longer coverage of up to five years or 100,000 miles. You can count on around the clock roadside assistance for five years or 100,000 miles as well, which includes courtesy transportation as needed. Additionally, the entire vehicle is guaranteed against corrosion damage for six years, irrespective of the mileage.
Safety
The Escalade EXT has all of the safety features one would expect, such as six passenger air bags, rear parking assist, stability control, a rearview camera, OnStar system, and a one year subscription to an automatic crash response system that alerts emergency vehicles when the passengers may be unable to respond.
Pros & Cons
The Cadillac Escalade EXT is intended for people who value lavish comforts and style along with the advantages of a truck’s capabilities. Those on a tighter budget often prefer less expensive trucks with better gas mileage and higher towing capacities, such as the Chevrolet Avalanche or Honda Ridgeline.
Some critics argue that a full-size pickup truck with a luxury trim is a better option for more power with comparable comfort; the Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn is one such example. If you want the utmost options in comfort though, the Escalade EXT still remains a top choice by comparison.
Competition
There are a number of SUV Crew Cabs that may be compared to the EXT, the Mercedes GL450 (MSRP $62,570; 13 city / 18 hwy) and the Infiniti QX56 (MSRP $60,000; 14 city / 20 hwy). There are others available at nearly half the cost, these include the Nissan Titan (MSRP $31,070; 13 city / 18 hwy) and the Toyota Tundra (MSRP $31,580; 14 city / 18 hwy). Your choice.
Overall Rating
76 out of 100
What others say:
“If you are looking for a capable, full-size luxury SUV that isn’t shy about attracting attention, the 2012 Cadillac Escalade belongs in your driveway – since it probably won’t fit in your garage.”KBB
“ The 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT owns the full-size luxury sport-utility truck segment with its distinctive style, luxurious appointments, versatility and commanding V8 performance. Then again, it’s the only full-size luxury sport-utility truck.”Edmunds
