Powerful and unapologetically American, the Cadillac Escalade ESV is the Big Kahuna of the Escalade luxury SUV family. Everything about it is massive, from its extended wheelbase to its V8 engine to its Bose sound system. Introduced in 2003 as a variant of the regular Escalade, the ESV broadens the Escalade's appeal by offering the absolute maximum in passenger room and cargo space. This big SUV's appeal lies mainly in its bold attitude and large and luxurious interior, as such, it's a popular choice for many consumers. No wonder celebrities, athletes and moguls are enticed by the Cadillac Escalade ESV. Available in a single trim level, the luxury SUV pampers like few vehicles can.
As familiar as the family dog, the Chevrolet Suburban cruises into 2005 with the same maximum-size virtues that have kept it a best-seller for so many years. Since the 'burb first appeared, it has never wavered from its mission. It remains the first choice for anyone who needs to haul six or more people plus their cargo. Suburban offers a cavernous interior with seats that fold down for monster loads. Suburban is based on GM's superbly engineered full-size truck frame. Its V8 engines deliver strong torque for towing heavy loads, and it's supremely stable when pulling heavy trailers through nasty, windy weather. Suburban provides a stable, comfortable ride for long-distance travel. Last but not least, it's fully capable of slogging down muddy two-tracks, whether in pursuit of the great outdoors or to get some work done.
From its yacht-like boulevard cruisers of the early '70s to its more recent Super Duty pickups, Ford has long catered to buyers with king-sized transportation needs. The Ford Excursion followed in this tradition. This full-size SUV was manufactured between 2000 and 2005, and holds the distinction of being the longest and heaviest sport-utility vehicle ever produced. With seating for up to nine passengers and a tow rating of 11,000 pounds, the Excursion was mecca for SUV buyers with super-sized hauling needs. Somebody always has to be the biggest and in the case of full-size sport utility vehicles, Ford took that prize with the introduction of the Excursion.
Buyers' tastes in large SUVs have changed over the years, and the GMC Yukon has changed with them. Early Yukons were fairly basic on the inside, but current models offer numerous amenities, particularly the leather-lined Yukon Denali model. Road manners have improved greatly over the years, as it became apparent to GMC that Yukon buyers spend most of their time on pavement. Some things haven't changed, though. The Yukon has always been a spacious vehicle that balances comfortable passenger accommodations with above-average cargo room. Now more refined than ever before, the current-generation GMC Yukon is one of the better full-size SUVs on the market for families who require a roomy, powerful vehicle that doesn't skimp on utility.
Nowhere in the vehicular universe does the “Only in America” statement apply more than when in reference to the Hummer H1. Originally designed strictly for military use, this absolutely massive four-wheel-drive utility vehicle earned its 15 minutes of fame as a civilian conveyance when it became the ride of choice among Hollywood celebrities and professional athletes. Boasting 16 inches of ground clearance as well as super-aggressive approach and departure angles, the Hummer could clamber over a 22-inch-high obstacle, handle a 60 percent grade and wade through up to 30 inches of water. In 1999, General Motors bought the rights to the Hummer brand name and renamed the brute the H1.
Few trucks attract as much attention rolling down the highway as the Hummer H2. Its large size and U.S. military Humvee-inspired styling make it stand out like a sweaty heavyweight prizefighter attending a Friday-night knitting class. It's also extremely capable when taken off-road and easy to customize with factory options and dealer accessories. When examined solely in terms of these qualities, the H2 seems like a stellar pick for an SUV. For the right type of buyer, the Hummer H2's strengths will outweigh its negatives. Those with a true need for Herculean off-road ability in open terrain or for towing a rolling billboard for a small business will find it endearing. The Hummer H2 is a large SUV and its creation came about as a desire by Hummer and parent company General Motors to offer something a bit more practical than the exotic H1.
The Lincoln MKX offers contemporary styling and a modern interior that moves the brand forward, though it lacks third-row seating capacity. Lincoln's first crossover still has a lot going for it, boasting a capable 3.5-liter V6 engine and plenty of room for people and cargo within its cabin. It also offers generous standard features, a quiet and comfortable ride and a distinctive exterior design, and it can be outfitted with Elite and Ultimate packages with premium items like surround-sound audio, heated and cooled front seats, and adaptive headlights.