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SUVs Cadillac Escalade Cadillac Escalade
994 messages, Last post on Oct 13, 2009 at 4:12 PM
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I love the new 07 Escalade and GM did a great job on the revamp. I was going to get an AWD Escalade, but that vehicle is no longer in stock and a 2WD with the same configuration is available at a lower cost. Do I really need AWD here in Southern CA, where it doesn't snow and hardly rains? I am originaly from the east coast, so can't imagine a SUV without AWD / 4WD, but that is because of the winter season over there. This vehicle will be my family hauler, so I want all the safety possible, however I question if will ever use AWD here in S. CA and then I swing back and forth about 2WD stability in rain. However with all the other traction and stabilitrack features with 2WD, I believe it should be fine. I also don't tow anything or go up into the mountains to ski (yet). Your opinions / comments would be greatly appreciated.
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Replying to: njcaguy (Feb 21, 2007 10:26 pm) 1. The 2WD Escalade is lower by at least 2 - 3 inches which contributes to better handling, easier access for my wife, and IMO a better more proportional road look because the vehicle is not 'jack-up' in the air. 2. The 2WD gets about 1 more MPG in real world driving and weighs about 200 pounds less. 3. I live in sunny Texas and do not have any need for AWD (and have a 4x4 truck if I want to go off-road, which is certainly not what I would intend to do with an Escalade). 4. The steering fell and responsiveness is better with the 2WD Escalade compared to the AWD. 5. With the 2WD Escalade the 18 inch wheels and tires fill the wheel wells up very nicely. I want the 18 inches since the ride quality is much better and the handling is almost the same IMO. (BTW, if you want the 22 inch wheels they totally fill the wheel well of the 2WD as compared to the AWD Escalade.) 6. The 2WD front suspension is much simpler and less prone to repairs. 7. The 2WD Escalade has a tow rating of 8000 versus 7700 pounds. 8. IMO, the retractable running boards (which, I will order) give a much better look to the 2WD then the AWD Escalade. I hope my reasoning helps you. |
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James, I really appreciate your feedback. I talked to a neighbor that owns several trucks and SUVs and he says there is no need for AWD here in Sunny S. CA and 2WD with all the Stabilitrack and All wheel traction features will do just fine even in the rain. Then I talked to another good contact who in his opinion says that the AWD has slightly better handling and feels more solid on the road. It will also perform better in the rain and have better resale value. I have only test driven the AWD version and probably will still not be able to tell the difference. The 2WD version is in stock at this time, where the AWD equivalent is harder to get in what I want. I read a review on a 07 2WD Yukon having horrible handling and floaty, but that Yukon was stock & didn't even have Auto-Ride Suspension so that is probably why the handling was not good. Keep me updated when you get your Escalade and thanks again for your good input! |
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Replying to: rayrruc (Jan 19, 2007 1:52 pm) YES!! I have an 03, with a lens missing. Wondering how to replace it - do I need just a lens or a complete light fixture? Also, how hard is it to fix. If the complete fixture is needed, a new one will probably be a couple hundred....don't you think? |
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Replying to: njcaguy (Feb 28, 2007 5:34 pm) We live in Texas and have a 2007 2WD Sub. The 07 has traction control and mine has a locking rear differential, no autoride. I have had no problems in the rain at all. In addition, had it out in the once or twice a year icings we get on the streets and had no issues then either. My suggestion is if you get the 2WD, make sure it has code G80...I think it is standard on the Caddy but might want to double check. Good Luck.
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Replying to: 4burb (Apr 06, 2007 1:31 pm) Thanks again for the good advice. About a month ago I purchased the 2007 Escalade 2WD and really enjoy it. I was convinced by yourself and others that AWD is really not needed in Southern CA. I still am not even sure if the Caddy has full time AWD or AWD when needed. The only issue I have the Escalade is the steering feel is too soft / light, if it were a little more solid / rigid you would feel you would have more control and better handling, other than that, it's a great vehicle and my first caddy! |
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Replying to: 4burb (Apr 06, 2007 1:31 pm) I live in Texas also and believe the 2WD make more sense. However, what does G80 code mean?
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Replying to: jamesfletcher2 (Apr 06, 2007 3:50 pm) |
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I'm about to purchase a 2007 Escalade, 2WD, sunroof, 20" wheels, entertainment, nav. I can use a GM supplier discount but not sure what kind of price it REALLY entitles me to. Am I better off straight-out negotiating with the dealer for my best deal, or will the GM supp. be the best possible deal? Has anyone gotten pricing below invoice on these SUV's? How hot are they right now? Your advice is appreciated!
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Replying to: iceman2 (Apr 15, 2007 7:02 pm) |
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