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2002 Cadillac Escalade Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
Also in the 2002 Cadillac Escalade Review:
1.
2.
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4.
5.
6.
Cadillac Escalade Full Review
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8.
2002 Cadillac Escalade Review
Escalade comes as a luxury SUV and a crossover SUV/pickup-truck called the EXT. The SUV shares a platform with the GMC Yukon/Denali and Chevrolet Tahoe but has more power and unique appointments. The EXT is a similarly embellished version of the Chevrolet Avalanche. Standard on both are front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, Cadillac's automatic-adjusting road-sensing suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and rear-obstacle-warning and OnStar-assistance systems.
The SUV seats seven and offers rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. AWD Escalades have a 6.0-liter V8 and tow up to 8500 lb, 2WD models have a 5.3 V8 and tow 7700 lb.
The EXT's "midgate" divides its 4-dr cab from its cargo bed. The rear window removes and the midgate folds along with the rear seat to extend the 5.3-ft bed to 8.1 ft. EXT seats five, but just two with the midgate folded. It comes only with AWD and the 6.0 V8; towing capacity is 8000 lb. AWD versions of both vehicles have antiskid control.
The SUV seats seven and offers rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. AWD Escalades have a 6.0-liter V8 and tow up to 8500 lb, 2WD models have a 5.3 V8 and tow 7700 lb.
The EXT's "midgate" divides its 4-dr cab from its cargo bed. The rear window removes and the midgate folds along with the rear seat to extend the 5.3-ft bed to 8.1 ft. EXT seats five, but just two with the midgate folded. It comes only with AWD and the 6.0 V8; towing capacity is 8000 lb. AWD versions of both vehicles have antiskid control.
Competition
Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys are the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.
Recommended are the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon. For a few more bucks you can get the Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs but wish they got a few more miles per gallon.
Recommended are the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon. For a few more bucks you can get the Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs but wish they got a few more miles per gallon.
News
Escalade year-to-year sales rose nearly 34 percent for calendar 2001, undoubtedly helped by early introduction of redesigned 2002 models. Though total volume wasn't huge at just shy of 32,000, Cadillac must be pleased that its SUV has become the must-have ride for any number of pro sports stars and Hollywood celebs, who often call it the "'Slade." The EXT sport-utility pickup, which went on sale in November 2001, should be a further boost to Cadillac truck sales. Additional help arrives next year in the Escalade ESV, essentially a long-wheelbase wagon also based on the Chevy Suburban/GMC Yukon XL platform. ESV will be equipped like other "'Slades," which should get a new dashboard and other touch-ups at about the same time.
Meanwhile, Cadillac is finishing up a car-based "sport wagon," the SRX. Due to arrive in mid-2003, it's built on the rear-drive Sigma platform introduced with Cadillac's new CTS entry-level sedan. SRX will take on the BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class by offering rear drive or permanent all-wheel drive, a base V6 likely borrowed from the CTS, and a 4.2-liter update of Cadillac's well-regarded Northstar V8. The V6 model may be limited to 2WD. Three-row seating for up to eight passengers is said to be standard. A sunroof bigger than any rival's is apparently in the works, as is a computer-controlled suspension with four-wheel air springs and variable ride height to suit different road and load conditions.
Meanwhile, Cadillac is finishing up a car-based "sport wagon," the SRX. Due to arrive in mid-2003, it's built on the rear-drive Sigma platform introduced with Cadillac's new CTS entry-level sedan. SRX will take on the BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class by offering rear drive or permanent all-wheel drive, a base V6 likely borrowed from the CTS, and a 4.2-liter update of Cadillac's well-regarded Northstar V8. The V6 model may be limited to 2WD. Three-row seating for up to eight passengers is said to be standard. A sunroof bigger than any rival's is apparently in the works, as is a computer-controlled suspension with four-wheel air springs and variable ride height to suit different road and load conditions.
2002 Cadillac Escalade Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration | Steering/Handling |
| Quietness | Fuel economy |
| Passenger and cargo room | Entry/exit |
| Trailer-towing capability | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Ample punch despite occasional transmission indecision in full-throttle downshifts. Cadillac says 6.0-liter Escalade SUV does 0-60 mph in 8.6 sec, 2WD 5.3-liter version in 9.5. EXT weighs only slightly less, shares acceleration feel.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
Ample punch despite occasional transmission indecision in full-throttle downshifts. Cadillac says 6.0-liter Escalade SUV does 0-60 mph in 8.6 sec, 2WD 5.3-liter version in 9.5. EXT weighs only slightly less, shares acceleration feel.
Fuel Economy
Test AWD SUVs averaged 14.3-15.6 mpg in city/highway driving, just 12.6 in all-city use. Similarly, test EXT averaged 15.7 mpg in primarily highway work, 11.2 in city. Cadillac recommends regular-grade fuel for the SUV, regardless of engine, but premium for the EXT.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 2 | 2 | 2 |
Test AWD SUVs averaged 14.3-15.6 mpg in city/highway driving, just 12.6 in all-city use. Similarly, test EXT averaged 15.7 mpg in primarily highway work, 11.2 in city. Cadillac recommends regular-grade fuel for the SUV, regardless of engine, but premium for the EXT.
Ride Quality
Mostly absorbent, though wallowy at times and always obviously trucklike. Ride quality improves as weight is added. Standard rear-leveling suspension a benefit.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Mostly absorbent, though wallowy at times and always obviously trucklike. Ride quality improves as weight is added. Standard rear-leveling suspension a benefit.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Ponderous in all but gentle cornering, and slow to respond to steering inputs. Steering itself light and vague, demands fatiguing attention on highway. Brakes have adequate stopping power.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 3 | 3 | 2.8 |
Ponderous in all but gentle cornering, and slow to respond to steering inputs. Steering itself light and vague, demands fatiguing attention on highway. Brakes have adequate stopping power.
Quietness
Fine isolation from wind, road, engine noise. Removing EXT's rear window or dropping midgate increases noise levels, but not unduly so.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 5.1 |
Fine isolation from wind, road, engine noise. Removing EXT's rear window or dropping midgate increases noise levels, but not unduly so.
Controls
Well-arranged dashboard shares layout with Chevy/GMC versions, but Cadillacs get classier-looking instrumentation. Interior decor plushest of any GM SUV, but plastic trim, generic controls keep it well below LX 470 level.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
Well-arranged dashboard shares layout with Chevy/GMC versions, but Cadillacs get classier-looking instrumentation. Interior decor plushest of any GM SUV, but plastic trim, generic controls keep it well below LX 470 level.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Plenty of head and leg room, vast shoulder width. Helpful audio/visual rear-obstacle system warns of unseen objects when backing up.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 7.4 |
Plenty of head and leg room, vast shoulder width. Helpful audio/visual rear-obstacle system warns of unseen objects when backing up.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Ample room for three adults in 2nd row on comfortable, heated seats. SUV's 3rd row is for preteens, and shockingly narrow doorway bottoms hamper egress. Lofty step-in on all models.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 6.9 |
Ample room for three adults in 2nd row on comfortable, heated seats. SUV's 3rd row is for preteens, and shockingly narrow doorway bottoms hamper egress. Lofty step-in on all models.
Cargo Room
SUV has little space behind 3rd row, though seat folds for extra room and removes fairly easily to open up vast cargo area--especially with 2nd-row seat folded. EXT hauls what most big pickups can, though rear seat sacrificed to bulky or long loads. Folding midgate no major chore, though quicker with two people.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 8 | 9 | 7.7 |
SUV has little space behind 3rd row, though seat folds for extra room and removes fairly easily to open up vast cargo area--especially with 2nd-row seat folded. EXT hauls what most big pickups can, though rear seat sacrificed to bulky or long loads. Folding midgate no major chore, though quicker with two people.
Value within Class
Interior detail execution and steering feel aren't up to the $50,000 price, but Escalade and Escalade EXT have plenty of power, no-fuss AWD, and styling that exudes attitude. EXT's midgate design can be versatile, but it's advantages are available for less money in the Avalanche.
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 2 | 4 | 3 |
Interior detail execution and steering feel aren't up to the $50,000 price, but Escalade and Escalade EXT have plenty of power, no-fuss AWD, and styling that exudes attitude. EXT's midgate design can be versatile, but it's advantages are available for less money in the Avalanche.
Total Score
| EXT | Escalade AWD | Class Average |
| 54 | 57 | 48.8 |
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 23 | |
| Average Score | 48 | |
| High Score | 63 |
2002 Cadillac Escalade Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/15/2002
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2WD Base 4-door wagon | $48,735 | $44,593 | $770 |
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| AWD Base 4-door wagon | $52,230 | $47,790 | $770 |
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| AWD EXT 4-door crew cab | $49,245 | $45,059 | $770 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
2WD Base
Powertrain
5.3-liter V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, rear-obstacle-detection system, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
OnStar System w/one year service (roadside assistance, emergency services; other services available), air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate control, rear climate controls, power steering, tilt leather-wrapped/wood steering wheel, cruise control, leather upholstery, 10-way power front bucket seats w/driver-seat memory, heated front and second-row seats, cupholders, stowable split folding second-row seat, split folding third-row seat, wood interior trim, overhead console (universal garage-door opener, rear radio controls, rear headphone jacks), heated power mirrors w/automatic day/night and tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, digital clock, steering-wheel radio controls, tachometer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, outside-temperature display, trip computer, map lights, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, running boards, roof rack.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Front tow hooks, 7-lead trailer-wiring harness, trailer hitch, automatic shock-absorber control, load-leveling rear suspension, full-size spare tire, 265/70R17 tires, alloy wheels.
AWD Base adds to 2WD Base:
Powertrain
6.0-liter V8 engine, all-wheel drive.
Safety
Antiskid system.
AWD EXT adds to AWD Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Split folding rear seat.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Removable rear window, folding midgate, stowable cargo cover.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Deletes: rear climate controls, second-row seat heating, split folding third-row seat, rear wiper/washer.
Optional Equipment
Comfort and Convenience Features |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Power sunroof
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2WD Base, AWD Base, AWD EXT
|
$1,550
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$1,318
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Deletes rear climate controls.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Special paint
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2WD Base, AWD Base, AWD EXT
|
$995
|
$846
|
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2002 Cadillac Escalade Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Cadillac Escalade 4-door wagon | Cadillac Escalade EXT crew cab |
| Wheelbase, in. | 116.0 | 130.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 198.9 | 221.4 |
| Overall Width, in. | 78.9 | 79.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 74.2 | 75.6 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 5809 | 5853 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 138.4 | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | 1147 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 26.0 | 30.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.7 | 40.7 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.3 | 41.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.0 | 38.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 39.1 | 38.9 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V8 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 5.3 /327 | 6.0 /366 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 285 @ 5200 | 345 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 325 @ 4000 | 380 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 4-speed automatic | 14/18 | 12/15 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Cadillac Escalade 4-door wagon | Cadillac Escalade EXT crew cab |
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 3 | 2 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA, Mexico
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2002 Cadillac Escalade Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Cadillac Escalade Full Review
7.
8.
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