2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT Published 1/12/2006

Only in my fantasy do I have the ranch in Wyoming. Two complete sections of land where I raise horses, four-wheel in style, and relax back at the lodge. For even in a land of true cowboys where men are equal and status symbols are eschewed for a good horse or a faithful dog, a Cadillac truck is a good thing.

OK, maybe a Cadillac truck is over the top. And maybe the idea of having a ranch in Wyoming will always be my fantasy. But indulging your fantasies is what the 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT is all about. Cadillac has always been a prestige American nameplate, a symbol of wealth and achievement. The reputation may have been tarnished somewhat during the 1980's, but the Cadillac crest still stands for excellence. A Cadillac pickup makes perfect sense - for some.

In an urban environment the 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT is a status symbol, a canvas on which to paint a personal portrait with custom wheels, grills and paint. In this environment, I'll have to confess, that I can't relate. I won't criticize those who want to customize and personalize their ride of choice, but this vehicle is so much more than a boulevard cruiser.

For me I see the 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT towing a boat or jet skies to the lake. What better vehicle could there be towing the restored hot rod to a car show or a custom chopper to Sturgis? The show horse in its trailer could not have a more prestigious tow vehicle. In short, this is a true work truck for those who want to work in pure luxury. The massive 6.0 H.O. V8 engine produces 345 horsepower and can tow up to 7,000 pounds. Weighing in at slightly less than three tons the 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT is an incredible luxury work vehicle.

While the 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT is almost two feet longer than the standard Escalade (22.5") it shares identical dimensions with the extended Escalade ESV. It also shares the concept of a configurable cargo bed design with the Chevrolet Avalanche. With the removable rear window and folding mid-gate, storage configurations are endless. The five and a half foot bed becomes full size with the mid-gate folded.

In addition to the Avalanche, this truck platform has spawned a dizzying array of vehicles from General Motors including the GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban and Cadillac Escalade. The 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT Sport Utility Truck and fully enclosed Escalade ESV Sport Utility Vehicle represent the biggest and best of this foundation. Dripping with luxury appointments such as the best heated leather seats in the industry, my test vehicle topped out at almost $60,000.

Advanced electronics included On-Star communications combined with a fully integrated GPS based Navigation System. XM satellite radio offers over 120 channels of coast-to-coast listening. Rear seat DVD entertainment center allows for wireless headphone listening, giving the driver and passenger other options.

The 2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT may have a truck based working foundation yet the ride and comfort is anything but a chore. Road sensing suspension complete with air ride automatic leveling gives this the luxury car ride one expects from Cadillac.

This is an imposing vehicle with luxury most can only fantasize about. And while right at home in an urban setting along side the finest of luxury cars, I believe it is best used to work in style. Maybe you don't have to have the ranch in Wyoming grooming prized horses but at least hook a boat up to it once in a while. Don't waste the 345 horsepower just cruising the Plaza. This is a fantasy truck. Indulge your fantasies.

2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT

All Wheel Drive
Sport Utility Truck

6.0 Liter H.O. V8
345 Horsepower 380 lb. ft. Torque

MSRP as tested $59,990

13/17 MPG

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