Unless you want to have the livestock laugh out loud, don’t take the Cadillac Escalade EXT pick-up truck to the farm. Then again, why not heap on the heavy cargo since the cargo box sides, mid-gate and tailgate are made of a rustproof, scratch-resistant composite material. Escalade EXT debuts in the 2002 model year as a re-configurable luxury vehicle that mixes the features of a sport utility vehicle with a pick-up truck. If you’re looking to make a major vehicle investment – and you’re unconcerned with lame mile counts of 12 city/15 highway – this is a great vehicle. During a 170-plus mile test drive, Escalade EXT displayed monster acceleration power via a 6-liter V8 that generates 345 horsepower.

Escalade EXT is adorned with a long list of standard equipment, including all-weather 17-inch radial tires, automatic level control, towing package, power-fold heated side mirrors, rear seat audio and earphones, 3-piece rigid cargo cover, in-dash 6-disc CD, road sensing suspension, and removable rear glass. The all-wheel-drive, 4-door vehicle provides a roomy cavern. A close cousin to the Chevrolet Avalanche, the Escalade EXT definitely provides a commanding stance (which means good road views) in a sharp, sleek presentation. Suggested retail price is $49,245.