2002 Cadillac Escalade

The foundation for the GM full-sized SUV family is a stiff ladder frame that features a fully boxed midsection flanked by hydroformed end sections; the receiver hitch is even integrated into the rear section, which gives it a Class 7 rating for a 14,000-pound gross combined weight rating. This rigidity helps offset some of the pitch and yaw inherent in high-center-of-gravity vehicles (although ingress height is now lower than in the 2000 models).

AWD Escalades are equipped with StabiliTrak as seen on the Deville STS. Sensors send the computer feedback about steering angle, wheel speed/slippage, brake pressure, acceleration and yaw. Among other corrections, the computer can then apply each brake individually to help maintain stability.

To smoothen the ride, torsion-bar IFS and a 5-link coil-sprung rear suspension carry over from the previous generation of GM 1/2-ton trucks and SUVs. This system provides a smooth ride, partly because it controls the axlewrap-upon-acceleration inherent in leaf-sprung rear suspensions.


The Escalade suspension shows off GM's highest technology. Notably, AWD Escalades offer StabiliTrak (borrowed from Caddy passenger cars), a system that monitors road conditions as well as steering, braking, and traction. The computer then modulates steering, braking and throttle to enhance handling. From the driver's seat, the intended goal is apparently minimizing over-correction by having the computer react faster than a human can. Ride is enhanced in both the AWD and 2WD Escalades by Road Sensing Suspension, which adjusts each shock individually based on conditions. The Escalade also has a self-leveling rear suspension that maintains normal ride height when hauling or towing.


All of this ride-control wizardry yields a vehicle that feels smaller than it actually is. Another system that contributes to this perception is Escalade's electronic variable-orifice steering. It increases the steering pump's pressure for added assist at low speeds, such as when parking. An improved Ackerman angle gives this full-sizer an impressive 38.3-foot turning diameter. Braking is also improved to handle the increased towing capacity: the rear discs now have 4-piston calipers.

Escalade's roofline has a high arch for better second- and third-row headroom. Folding 60/40 second-row benches and easily removable third-row seats yield a maximum cargo area of 108.2 cubic feet.

Escalade incorporates many of the comforts of home, falling just short of recliners with foot rests. First- and second-row seats are heated, and the front thrones are 10-way-adjustable. Seatbelts are incorporated into the first- and third-row seats, which makes way for side-impact bags.