Escapade AWD

It isn't needed but it handles better in rain and snow and other things like that.

If you pull off the road onto a muddy shoulder you will be glad you have AWD.

It's probably not necessary. You'll use it infrequently, but pay for it continually.

The only thing you will use it for is resale value and desirability when it's time to sell it. GM has made that drivetrain for decades it's seldom fails but will cost some in gas not much with the V8 and weight in consideration. In your state you won't come into a dire need for it but it will be there when or if you need it. It's a great pic with a great resale value we pay a premium for the denali and the escalades at the auctions. Enjoy hope this helped