General Motors continues the process of redesigning its full-size fleet and after the introduction of the light-duty Chevy and GMC trucks in early 2018, the brand will switch to the 2020 model year with the all-new, heavy-duty versions. But, the auto giant has also the focus on the fast-selling SUV models and the spy photos of the new-generation full-size Cadillac Escalade emerged recently. The fifth iteration of the large SUV will go on sale as the 2020 model but we heard also the rumors that the new version could also spawn the new truck version.
Cadillac discontinued the unique Escalade EXT sport utility truck after the 2013 model year due to the poor sales but with the truck boom in recent years, the new version could perform better. The brand hasn’t commented on the rumors and the prototype version wasn’t spotted on the roads to support the rumors. However, Cadillac said earlier that it is open for the possibility of returning the EXT but wasn’t specific about the timeline. The rumors suggest the possible arrival as the 2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT and here is how it could look.
2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT: Design
General Motors is redesigning the body-on-frame, full-size SUVs and trucks around the T1XX platform and the Escalade SUV spotted recently will also be based on this architecture. If the 2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT arrives as the rumors claim, the model will also use this light-weight structure which is the evolution of the current K2XX underpinning. The new platform will arrive with the optional independent rear suspension and the weight reduction of around 300 pounds in the case of the new Escalade SUV. The truck version would also benefit from similar upgrades.
As for the styling of the upcoming SUV and possibly the truck version, the models should adopt the similar design as seen on the recent XT4 and presented earlier on the 2016 Escala Concept. The model should get the new version on of the shield-shaped grille with the mesh pattern and new headlights similar again to the units on the XT4 model. The truck would likely arrive with the four full-size doors as it was the case with the previous version and Cadillac could again repeat a unique mid-gate design for greater versatility.
Interior, Equipment:
Inside the truck’s cabin, the brand would likely use a similar theme as on the recent SUVs in the range and equip the model with many luxuries and the latest tech.
If the truck returns as the new generation version it will be another premium option on the market. The truck would offer the base features such as the tri-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, power pedals, surround sound system, the latest infotainment platform, etc. The equipment list would also include modern safety systems like emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, etc.
2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT: Powertrains
When it comes to the powertrain options, the 2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT would, of course, share the same mechanics with the upcoming Escalade SUV.
The sure bet would be a familiar 6.2-liter V-8 engine with the power output around 420 hp. The engine would come with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
The new Escalade SUV could also employ a 4.2-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine with the power over 500 hp and therefore this engine would also be in the consideration for the truck version. Cadillac should also deliver the new Escalade SUV with the plug-in hybrid setup at some time point but the truck version would likely miss this option.
2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT: Arrival, Price
No confirmation yet that Cadillac is working on the 2020 Cadillac Escalade EXT or even considering this option for the near future. The new Escalade SUV will go on sale in late 2019 and with the price in the upper $70,000 range.
