2003 Cadillac Escalade reviews and
buying guide.
2003
Cadillac Escalade resources:
2003 Cadillac Escalade
When Cadillac first decided to tread into the uncertain
waters of the SUV market, there was some speculation
as to whether its trademark luxury crafting would have
to be abandoned in favor of a more brawny approach.
Luckily, the people in charge decided that rather than
choose one or the other, they could just as easily combine
the luxury of smaller vehicles with the strength and
toughness needed in an SUV. The result of this conglomeration
of styles is the Cadillac Escalade, a full-size four-door
luxury SUV capable of up to eight-passenger seating.
The demands of a luxury SUV are great. On one hand,
both comfort and convenience have to be readily apparent,
while performance, power, safety and durability cannot
be neglected. The Escalade passes this test with flying
colors. Improving upon last year's model, the 2003 Escalade
offers new safety applications, a redesigned instrument
panel and console and new entertainment options. With
2WD or AWD models to choose from, each with different
engines, the Escalade can add a check next to the variety
category as well.
Under the Hood
The 2WD Escalade comes with a 5.3-liter V8 engine with
285 horsepower at 5200rpm and 325lb-ft of torque at
4000rpm, translating into a towing power of up to 7700
lbs. The AWD Escalade has a 6.0-liter V8 engine with
345 horsepower at 6000rpm and 380lb-ft of torque at
4000rpm. Even more powerful than the 2WD, the AWD can
tow up to 8500 lbs. Automatic transmission does all
the shifting.
The 2003 Escalade takes safety and performance to the
limit with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control,
load-leveling suspension, rear-obstacle detection system
and automatic shock-absorber control - all standard.
Additional safety enhancements for 2003 including front-seat
dual-level air bags for the driver and passenger and
a passenger-sensing system.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
With so many standard features, it's hard to see a
need for any options packages. But of course there are
plenty. Both 2WD and AWD are equipped with the sophisticated
OnStar system, tilt leather-wrapped/wood steering wheel
with radio controls, leather upholstery, power-adjustable
pedals, a Bose AM/FM/cassette with in-dash 6-disc CD
changer and a laundry list of others.
Additional luxury and performance packages are available,
including a rear seat DVD Entertainment System.
After reviewing all that the 2003 Escalade offers,
it is certainly a good thing Cadillac decided to produce
an SUV worthy of its name.
2004 Cadillac Reviews:
2004
Cadillac Escalade ESV
2004
Cadillac Escalade EXT
2004
Cadillac Escalade
2009 Cadillac Pricing:
2009 Cadillac Escalade car prices - dealer cost
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