When it comes to big, powerful vehicles, you have large trucks on one side and their cousins, the full-size SUVs, on the other. Fortunately, if you’re having trouble choosing between the two, you can consider the 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT. Though it looks a lot like the Chevy Avalanche, being an Escalade puts it in a class all its own.
Key Features
The most noticeable key feature of the 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT is its cab. The cargo bed is also fully-configurable, which makes it a great option for a wide range of purposes.
AWD comes standard.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 Escalade EXT benefits from a couple updates, but they’re modest ones like new exterior color options (Radiant Silver Metallic and Crystal Red Tintcoat).
This model also has a new navigation system and center console.
What We Like
Don’t let the name Cadillac fool you, this SUV is packing a powerful 403-hp, 6.2-liter V8 under the hood. You can get one that is E85-compatible too if you want. Combine that with AWD and you can get through just about any terrain.
The fuel-saving cylinder-deactivation system is a great addition too, especially when you consider how thirsty full-size SUVs can get (especially if when you’re towing).
What Concerns Us
One very strange feature of the 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT is that if you decide to extend the cargo boxes, you’ll be exposing your passengers to the elements. Depending on the weather, this can easily cancel out every luxury component associated with the Cadillac name.
While this is an Escalade, it’s not the one you want if you have no need to tow or for large amounts of storage space. Unless you absolutely love the look, there are a number of better SUVs to choose from (including the standard Escalade).
Available Models
There is only one version of the 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT.
Major Recalls
There has only been one recall for the 2012 Escalate EXT, which was due to a problem with its ignition. Some owners found that the actuator would bind, which, in turn, made it very hard to turn the key.
Stuck in the “Start” position was bad, but if it switched over to “Accessory”, the steering wheel and/or brakes would quit responding. Obviously, this was a huge problem when on the road.
Common Issues
The price tag on this vehicle is more than most people want to part with.
