Not-too-distant cousins

Reconfigurability is the name of the game for the new SUV/pickup crossover vehicles from Cadillac and Chevrolet.

Cadillac refers to the 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche as the “cousin” vehicle to its new Escalade EXT. Though Cadillac tags its offering a sport utility truck (SUT) while Chevy's is called an ultimate utility vehicle, the two vehicles have several features in common, most notably their reconfigurable midgate. Part of the Convert-a-Cab System for Chevrolet and the Utility Enhancement System for Cadillac, the midgate is constructed of PRO-TEC composite material-making it lightweight, rustproof, and highly dent- and scratch-resistant-and a steel crossbar. Similar in appearance and function to a tailgate, the midgate separates the second-row seats from the 1600-mm (63-in) long cargo bed. When lowered, it folds into the interior of the cab to create a cargo area that is 1270 mm (50 in) wide and 2464 mm (97 in) long. The vehicles' removable rear window can be stowed on board and allows additional space for cargo items. According to Chevrolet, the four-door Avalanche is the only vehicle that can reconfigure from six-passenger seating to a vehicle with a protected 2464-mm (97-in) long cargo box. (The four-door EXT has five-passenger seating.)

A standard three-piece composite cover provides weather-resistant storage in the cargo box. According to General Motors, each section is strong enough to hold up to about 113 kg (250 lb). The cover can be removed and stored on board; its three panel sections interlock with latches, allowing each to be removed independently and adding to the vehicles' reconfigurability. Drains at the front corners, behind the sail panel, draw water off the cover when it is in place; when removed, multiple drains located in the cargo box allow water to escape.