#2

in Sport Utility Trucks

Based on analysis of 30 Escalade-EXT reviews and test drives.

MSRP: $61,420 - $69,000
Invoice: $57,428 - $64,515
MPG: 10 City / 15 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:8.2
Performance:8.3
Exterior:8.8
Interior:8.7
Safety:NA
Reliability:8.0
Research we analyzed for this review

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Performance - What the Auto Press Says

Even though the 2010 Escalade EXT is a big, heavy vehicle, it has a surprisingly car-like ride that's coupled with impressive thrust from its V8 engine. Still, the steering and braking get mixed reviews

Acceleration and Power

Only a single engine is available for the nearly 6,000-pound Escalade EXT, and it's a big one: a 6.2-liter V8 that can generate 403 horsepower, plenty of low-end torque and a towing capacity of 7,600 pounds. By and large reviewers think this engine is great, but a few lament that even this much power can barely keep up with the EXT's bulk.  The EXT comes with a Hydra-Matic  six-speed automatic transmission with a Driver Shift Control manual mode.  Reviewers say the transmission performs smoothly.

For 2010, the Cadillac Escalade EXT's engine has active fuel management technology, which saves fuel by shutting down four of the engine's eight cylinders when they are not needed. The EPA has not released new fuel economy estimates for the EXT.

  • The V8 "thrusts the big vehicle forward with eye-opening authority." Kelley Blue Book
  •  +The EXT "could probably surprise some punks at the drag strip." --Cars.com
  • The transmission's shifts are "crisp and well-timed" and that its manual mode is "helpful on slick and winding roads." Edmunds
  • The transmission "changes gears smoothly," but "some testers cite an occasional reluctance to downshift for passing." -- Consumer Guide

Handling and Braking             

Reviewers find the EXT's handling surprisingly good for a truck, and the ride is surprisingly comfortable. Still, some complain about numb steering and less-than-perfect braking.

  • "This heavy full-frame luxury truck drives like a very large car.  It's no sport sedan, but it is more agile, sure-footed and Cadillac-comfortable than most any other full-size truck you'll encounter."  -- Kelley Blue Book
  • "Has all the supple composure we've come to expect from the latest generation of trucks." Edmunds
  • "Strong brakes have [a] reassuringly firm pedal, but fast stops trigger lots of nosedive." Consumer Guide
Review Last Updated: 10/13/09