What Is the Towing Capacity of the Escalade EXT?
by Justan Brandt
The Escalade EXT couples the General Motors full-size pickup truck platform with the luxury of Cadillac. The Escalade EXT was introduced for the 2002 model year, alongside a redesigned Escalade. Between the 2002 and 2010 model years, the Cadillac Escalade EXT had a maximum towing capacity over 7,000 lbs.
Size
The towing capacities for the Escalade EXT varied by year, and they included maximum capacities of 7,300 lbs., 7,400 lbs., 7,500 lbs., 7,600 lbs. and 7,900 lbs.
Time Frame
During the first two years, 2002 and 2003, the Escalade EXT had a towing capacity of 7,900 lbs. The 2004 model year saw a decline in capacity to 7,400 lbs. Maximum towing capacity dropped again in 2005 to 7,300 lbs., before rebounding to 7,500 lbs. in 2006. The 2007 and 2008 model years saw an increase to 7,600 lbs. For the 2009 and 2010 model years, the Escalade EXT towing capacity leveled back off at 7,500 lbs.
Considerations
Reaching maximum towing capacity requires installation of a proper trailer hitch and towing package. A Class 1 trailer hitch is only capable of handling 2,000 lbs., and a Class 4 can handle as much as 10,000 lbs.
Types
The Cadillac Escalade was available in one base trim line, with available options, from 2002 until 2009. During the 2010 model year, a Luxury and Premium trim became available. Towing capacity was not affected by the trim level.
Expert Insight
During a review of the 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Edmunds said, "The Cadillac EXT's 6.2-liter engine is quite strong. Like the Avalanche, its basic layout isn't set up for 5th wheel towing, but is well-suited to medium-weight using a standard hitch."
References
Writer Bio
Justan Brandt became a journalist and writer who specializes in automotive coverage in 2009. He has been a student at Bob Bondurant’s School of High Performance Driving and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in technology commerce.
