The Cadillac’s first truck-based vehicle, the Escalade was designed to blend the features of a luxury car with the capabilities of an SUV.
The brand new 2002 model offered more power and improved driving dynamics.

Available with a two-wheel-drive of a four-wheel drive system, both models offered powerful engines, such as the 5.3-liter powerplant that cranked out 285 hp (with the 2-wheel-drive) and the 4-wheel-drive specific 6.0-liter V8 that developed no less than 345 hp. The V8 unit’s architecture was borrowed from the Corvette.

As expected, the more powerful engine came with a better towing capacity of 3,855 kg, while the 5.3-liter could tow up to 2,993 kg.

Not only the exterior was heavily improved, as the cabin was redesigned and brought more luxury than before. The interior featured all-new cluster gauges and the OnStart communication system that included hands-free, voice-activated phone capability, news, weather and other sort of information.

Other equipment included a 11-speaker Bose sound system, 50/50 split-bench third row, a self-levelling rear suspension, StabiliTrack (a stability control system that enhanced handling and braking on slick roads), ABS and traction control.

A Road Sensing Suspension system was available and improved the body’s stability, enhanced the ride comfort, offered better handling and towing performance.