2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT Road Test Ratings

EXT offers a smoother ride and more luxurious interior amenities than its competitors. When it comes to the luxury truck segment, this Cadillac is at the top of its class.

The exceptionally strong 6.2-liter V8, not available in the similar Avalanche, is the standard engine here. Two-wheel drive and part-time 4x4 are not available either, replaced here by a standard AWD system. All-weather convenience therefore ranks higher than outright off-road capability.

Coil spring suspension and a cargo box permanently affixed to the cab make the Escalade EXT ride much more smoothly than a typical leaf-spring truck. Rear-seat passengers enjoy more space and amenities than traditional pickups, and the Cadillac adds to the coddling with leather seats and other luxury options.

An improved interior with more logical controls is a big step forward. But it is the Midgate and the covered bed that make the Escalade EXT unique. As long as the rear seat isn't needed, the so-called Midgate can be folded down to create an eight-foot load space. A segmented bed covering makes the bed watertight.

Cadillac ups the grille and badge ante even further with this latest refresh. Some on our staff felt it went a bit too far, others didn't mind it. The interior improvements are not only functional, they also give a greater impression of quality.