2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT Review
The Escalade is a luxury SUV that was introduced for 1999. It soon became a favorite among both rappers and TV mobsters. The original was heavily based on the GMC Yukon Denali, but the second generation, which debuted in 2002, was a completely fresh design. Rear-wheel drive became standard along with a 5.3L V8. Four-wheel stability control and adjustable pedals came in 2003. Second-row bucket seats and tire pressure monitoring became standard for 2004. The Escalade EXT pickup truck debuted in 2002, followed by the extended-length ESV SUV in 2003. The Escalade has been redesigned for 2007.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Cadillac Escalade EXT isn’t a mainstream vehicle, but it doesn’t pretend to be. Offering all of the Escalade’s luxury and power in pickup truck form, the EXT is aimed at a very specific market. If you’re just looking for a truck, look elsewhere, but as an Escalade, it offers everything you’d expect for about the same price.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power initial reliability data is not available for the EXT. The original Escalade had issues with engine stalling, hard starting, vibrating hoods, bad ignition switches, vehicle noise, and poor shifting. It was recalled three times. The second-gen Escalade fared a bit better, having problems with damaged wiring, nonfunctional blower motors, sticky transmissions, and excessive oil consumption. However, it was recalled a total of nine times. Expect below-average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Escalade earned a perfect five-star rating in government frontal crash tests. Side crash test information is not available. IIHS data is not available. Side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitoring, a rollover sensor, rear parking sensors, and stability control come standard. The side airbags will deploy in the case of a frontal collision, and seatbelt pre-tensioners activate in the case of a rear collision.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Powerful engine
+ Smooth ride
+ Solid safety features
Cons
– Incomplete safety picture
– As awkward as it is big
– 4WD not standard
Head-To-Head Competition:
So just what do you compare a luxury sport utility truck against? While the EXT might be in a class of its own, there are alternatives. If you’re interested in a truck/SUV hybrid, the Chevrolet Avalanche is a suitable alternative. At $20,000 less than the EXT, the Avalanche provides a very nice price/performance ratio with, its 5.3L 320-hp V8. Of course, you’ll miss out on many of the EXT’s luxurious features, and side curtain airbags and parking sensors are optional, but the price is right. If you’re looking for a luxurious truck, the Lincoln Mark LT is a good choice. It costs about $16,000 less while still providing 320 hp with its V8. As with the Avalanche, parking sensors are optional, but side airbags are unavailable on the Mark LT. If perhaps you want an upscale utilitarian vehicle, the Hummer H2 Luxury might be worth a look. It costs about the same, but has about 80 less horsepower. But like the Lincoln, side airbags are unavailable.
What Others Are Saying:
“Inside and out, the new Escalade is handsome and will no doubt remain one of Detroit’s most iconic vehicles. But will remaining an icon translate into paying back part of a huge investment? SUV sales are working against the new Escalade, but this esteemed vehicle is sure not to be a flop.” – Forbes
“The 2007 Cadillac Escalade will be the only choice for a determined segment of buyers, but many other vehicles match its capabilities and offer better value.” – C|Netl
“Unbeatable if your SUV needs include flash as well as function.” – Car and Driver
Read more about the 2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.
