Luxury SUVs: A Comparison of Status, Luxe, and Performance
In the early 2000s, premium car manufacturers began venturing into the truck and sport/utility vehicle market. This article compares three luxury SUVs: the 2002 Cadillac Escalade, the 2003 Lincoln Navigator, and the 2002 Mercedes ML500.
The Contenders
- 2002 Cadillac Escalade: Based on the Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon platform, the Escalade boasts a 6.0L V8 engine producing 345 horsepower. It features a full-time all-wheel-drive system and a computer-controlled suspension.
- 2003 Lincoln Navigator: As the platinum-plated sibling of the Ford Expedition, the Navigator received a complete redesign for 2003. It includes a 5.4L DOHC V8 engine and an industry-first power-folding third-row bench seat.
- 2002 Mercedes ML500: With a more compact design and a 5.0L V8 engine producing 288 horsepower, the ML500 is positioned as a more agile and sporty option.
Performance Comparison
- Acceleration: The Mercedes ML500 proved quickest, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.85 seconds, followed by the Cadillac Escalade at 7.45 seconds, and the Lincoln Navigator at 10.0 seconds.
- Handling: The ML500 was praised for its sporty handling, while the Escalade was noted for its light and precise steering. The Navigator, despite its new independent rear suspension, felt sluggish due to its power-steering calibrations.
- Braking: All three vehicles demonstrated excellent braking performance, with the Lincoln Navigator achieving a 129-ft stop from 60 mph.
Four-Wheeling Capabilities
While none of these SUVs are ideal for rock climbing due to their size, they performed well in snowy and muddy conditions. The Cadillac’s full-time AWD system and the Mercedes’ 4WD system with super-low transfer-case gearing were particularly noteworthy.
Interior and Comfort
- The Lincoln Navigator offered the most comfortable third-row seating and innovative features like a DVD player.
- The Cadillac Escalade was praised for its ride quality, attributed to its electronically controlled shocks and hydraulic self-leveling system.
- The Mercedes ML500, while having a dated interior design, featured sporty perforated gray leather seats and a GPS-based navigation system.
Safety Features
All three SUVs came equipped with advanced safety features for their time, including four-wheel disc brakes, multiple airbags, and stability control systems.
Conclusion
The choice among these luxury SUVs depends on priorities: the Mercedes ML500 for its sporty performance, or the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade for their space and towing capabilities. The Escalade stood out for its overall refinement and driving satisfaction.
Key Specifications
2002 Cadillac Escalade
- Engine: 6.0L V8
- Horsepower: 345 @ 5200 rpm
- Torque: 380 @ 4000 rpm
- Drivetrain: Full-time AWD
2003 Lincoln Navigator
- Engine: 5.4L DOHC V8
- Horsepower: 300 @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 355 @ 2750 rpm
- Drivetrain: 4WD with ControlTrac system
2002 Mercedes ML500
- Engine: 5.0L V8
- Horsepower: 288 @ 5500 rpm
- Torque: 325 @ 2700 rpm
- Drivetrain: 4WD with super-low transfer-case gearing
