2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Acura MDX
Overview | |
MSRP$76,195 | MSRP$48,000 |
Listings623 | Listings649 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews8.2 out of 10 | Expert reviews8.0 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2021 Cadillac Escalade Reviews SummaryYouthful aspiration often translates into adult acquisition. When the first Cadillac Escalade went on sale and quickly became an American popular culture icon, the oldest Millennials were just getting their driver’s licenses, and the youngest weren’t born yet. Today, this “digital native” generation raised on rap music is turning 40, moving to the suburbs, and raising families. Plus, it is poised to inherit a reported $68 trillion from Baby Boomers by 2030, the largest wealth transfer in modern history. Despite suffering through the Great Recession and now a global pandemic, will Millennials spend their passed-down windfalls on a six-figure full-size SUV that gets 16 mpg? Some will, and in so doing, they’ll get a mighty impressive and technologically sophisticated, fifth-generation Cadillac on 22s. | |
2022 Acura MDX Reviews SummarySkipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine6.2L 420 hp V8 | Engine3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Drive TrainRWD | Drive TrainFWD |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower420 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
MPG City14 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway20 | MPG Highway26 |
Engine | |
Engine Name6.2L 420 hp V8 | Engine Name3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Torque460 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm | Torque267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower420 hp @ 5600 rpm | Horsepower290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
DrivetrainRWD | DrivetrainFWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City14 | MPG City19 |
MPG Highway20 | MPG Highway26 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity8 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Navigation SystemStandard | Navigation System |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space25.5 cu ft | Cargo Space16.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight5635 lbs | Curb Weight4271 lbs |
Height76.7 in | Height67.1 in |
Length211.9 in | Length198.4 in |
Width81.1 in | Width78.7 in |
Wheelbase120.9 in | Wheelbase113.8 in |
Maximum Payload1636 lbs | Maximum Payload1173 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity8200 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity7700 lbs | Standard Towing Capacity |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $76,195 | $48,000 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 8.2 out of 10Read full review | 8.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | Youthful aspiration often translates into adult acquisition. When the first Cadillac Escalade went on sale and quickly became an American popular culture icon, the oldest Millennials were just getting their driver’s licenses, and the youngest weren’t born yet. Today, this “digital native” generation raised on rap music is turning 40, moving to the suburbs, and raising families. Plus, it is poised to inherit a reported $68 trillion from Baby Boomers by 2030, the largest wealth transfer in modern history. Despite suffering through the Great Recession and now a global pandemic, will Millennials spend their passed-down windfalls on a six-figure full-size SUV that gets 16 mpg? Some will, and in so doing, they’ll get a mighty impressive and technologically sophisticated, fifth-generation Cadillac on 22s. | Skipping the 2021 model year, the Acura MDX leaps ahead into 2022, riding on a new platform with a new exterior design, new interior look, refreshed platform, and a more assertive attitude. Now entering its fourth generation of production since its introduction as a 2001 model, the MDX rewards its loyal audience with improvements across the board—while retaining its essential nature. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 6.2L 420 hp V8 | 3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Drive Train | RWD | FWD |
Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
Horsepower | 420 hp @ 5600 rpm | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
MPG City | 14 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 20 | 26 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 6.2L 420 hp V8 | 3.5L 290 hp V6 |
Torque | 460 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm | 267 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm |
Horsepower | 420 hp @ 5600 rpm | 290 hp @ 6200 rpm |
Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 14 | 19 |
MPG Highway | 20 | 26 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 25.5 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 5635 lbs | 4271 lbs |
Height | 76.7 in | 67.1 in |
Length | 211.9 in | 198.4 in |
Width | 81.1 in | 78.7 in |
Wheelbase | 120.9 in | 113.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1636 lbs | 1173 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 8200 lbs | 3500 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 7700 lbs | |
Look and feel
Emerging as an icon of American pop culture when Millennials were just beginning to drive, the Chevrolet Escalade has grown alongside this generation, mirroring their journey towards suburban life and family-raising. The 2021 Escalade, riding on 22-inch wheels, typifies this vehicle’s appeal with its impressive sophistication and luxury, despite its modest fuel efficiency.
In contrast, the 2022 Acura MDX represents a leap forward over its predecessor, bypassing the 2021 model year to introduce significant improvements across the board. With a new platform, exterior, and interior design, the fourth-generation MDX retains its core essence while presenting a more assertive stance. This evolution aims to reward loyal fans with a vehicle that enhances every aspect of the driving experience, cementing its position in the luxury SUV market.
Performance
Regarding performance, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade and 2022 Acura MDX both receive high praise, with CarGurus rating the Escalade 9 out of 10 and the MDX 8 out of 10. The Escalade introduces a choice between a traditional 6.2-liter V8 and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel, offering impressive power and slightly better fuel efficiency with the diesel option. Its ride quality is significantly enhanced by new suspension technologies, making it a master of smooth, controlled travel over any terrain. The MDX, with its 3.5-liter V6 and new 10-speed transmission, offers a blend of performance and handling that feels sporty and responsive. The addition of the fourth-generation SH-AWD system further elevates its agility, making it a joy to drive in various conditions.
Form and function
The 2021 Cadillac Escalade not only impresses with its luxurious appointments and advanced technology but also stands out for its practicality and spaciousness. The redesigned suspension and increased overall vehicle length have led to a more accommodating interior, offering significant gains in passenger comfort and cargo capacity. The Escalade now boasts 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 63 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a vast 109.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. Opting for the extended-length Escalade ESV further increases these figures to 42.9, 81.5, and 126.6 cubic feet, respectively, behind the third, second, and first rows of seats. This makes the Escalade a leader in its class for those who require generous cargo space alongside luxury.
The 2022 Acura MDX has been designed with an eye toward versatility and functionality within its elegant profile. As a three-row SUV, it offers comfortable and accessible seating for up to seven passengers. The luggage capacity is also noteworthy, with 16.3 to 18.1 cubic feet available behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded down. For those needing even more space, folding down the second row opens up between 71.4 and 95 cubic feet. These figures highlight the MDX's capability to adapt to various needs, from daily commuting to accommodating larger loads for road trips. The MDX balances form and function, providing a luxurious yet practical solution for families and adventurers alike.
Technology
Both SUVs come equipped with advanced technology, scoring 8 out of 10 by CarGurus. The Escalade boasts a pioneering OLED display that merges sophistication with user-friendliness, alongside an impressive AKG sound system. The MDX counters with the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System and a host of connectivity and convenience features, including a new digital cockpit and wireless functionality. Each vehicle offers a distinct approach to integrating technology, catering to different preferences in interaction and entertainment.
Safety
Safety features in both the 2021 Cadillac Escalade and 2022 Acura MDX are comprehensive, each earning an 8 out of 10 rating. The Escalade's robust suite of driver aids and structural design prioritizes occupant safety, while the MDX focuses on advanced engineering and the AcuraWatch suite to enhance protection and driving assistance. Both vehicles demonstrate a strong commitment to safety.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Escalade narrowly edges out the MDX in this comparison, thanks to its superior luxury, technology, and form/function capabilities. However, the decision ultimately depends on individual priorities such as cost, performance, and specific features.
Choose the 2021 Cadillac Escalade if:
- You prioritize unparalleled luxury and space.
- Advanced technology and superior ride quality are non-negotiable.
- You desire the prestige and status that comes with the Cadillac brand.
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Choose the 2022 Acura MDX if:
- You seek a balance of performance, luxury, and value.
- Advanced safety and technology features are a must, but at a more accessible price point.
- You prefer a sportier driving experience with the practicality of a luxury SUV.
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CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is 8.2 out of 10, while the 2022 Acura MDX scores 8.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the Escalade narrowly edges out the MDX in this comparison, thanks to its superior luxury, technology, and form/function capabilities. However, the decision ultimately depends on individual priorities such as cost, performance, and specific features.
Choose the 2021 Cadillac Escalade if:
Shop Now- You prioritize unparalleled luxury and space.
- Advanced technology and superior ride quality are non-negotiable.
- You desire the prestige and status that comes with the Cadillac brand.
630 results
Choose the 2022 Acura MDX if:
Shop Now- You seek a balance of performance, luxury, and value.
- Advanced safety and technology features are a must, but at a more accessible price point.
- You prefer a sportier driving experience with the practicality of a luxury SUV.
643 results
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.
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