2022 Jeep Compass vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design heavily influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, it maintained a familiar look, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time, offering a commanding presence. Buyers could opt for a base model at $76,195, but most preferred the Premium Luxury or Sport trims, with the Platinum upgrade providing maximum luxury. Our test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim with four-wheel drive, was equipped with numerous features, including a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Performance Package, totaling $102,310. The Escalade was praised for its luxurious interior, offering various leather and wood trim options, though some plastic elements were noted as less desirable given the price.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, while receiving exterior updates, retained a look reminiscent of a smaller Grand Cherokee. Our High Altitude test model featured 19-inch wheels that matched its upscale appearance. Inside, the Compass impressed with a new dashboard design, luxury-grade leather seats, and enhanced sound deadening, elevating its premium feel. The High Altitude trim, the most expensive in the lineup, offered features like all-wheel drive and various option packages, bringing the price to $40,470. The Compass was noted for its improved interior sophistication, with features like a dual-pane sunroof and a redesigned dashboard contributing to its appeal.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine. The V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was favored for its performance and sound, with a Performance Upgrade Package available for added power. The V8's fuel economy was enhanced by technologies like Dynamic Fuel Management, averaging 15.9 mpg in testing. The turbo-diesel, with 277 horsepower, provided the same torque as the V8 but with better fuel efficiency. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, offering a smooth and controlled driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 177 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. Despite its "Tigershark" name, the engine was criticized for its lack of power, especially at higher altitudes. The nine-speed automatic transmission, paired with all-wheel drive, aimed to maximize fuel efficiency but resulted in a busy powertrain character. The Compass averaged 23.8 mpg in testing, slightly below the EPA's estimate. The Jeep Selec-Terrain system offered various driving modes, and the Compass was capable of light off-roading with its 8.1 inches of ground clearance. However, the driving dynamics were noted as needing improvement, with a bouncy ride and excessive lateral motion on uneven surfaces.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's new independent rear suspension allowed for a larger and more functional cabin. The longer wheelbase and vehicle length contributed to increased passenger comfort and cargo capacity. Front seats offered up to 16-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options. The second-row seats provided improved leg support and slid for better access to the third row, which now accommodated adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 109.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more cargo volume.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, positioned as a smaller compact SUV, provided enough space for four adults and their luggage. The High Altitude trim featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The redesigned dashboard and new Uconnect 5 infotainment system enhanced the interior's perceived quality. The Compass offered 27.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, surpassing the more expensive Cherokee model.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a 38-inch curved OLED display, offering high pixel density and vibrant colors. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some user experience improvements were suggested. The AR navigation system and AKG sound system were highlights, with the latter offering a 36-speaker option. Voice recognition had limitations, and physical controls were often preferred over touch and voice commands.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than its predecessor. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen available. The system offered customization options and over-the-air updates. Voice recognition was generally accurate, though some navigation requests required extra effort. The Compass also offered a nine-speaker Alpine sound system as an upgrade.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assistance. The Driver Assist Tech Package offered additional features like adaptive cruise control. However, some false alarms were noted during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance as standard. Highway Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering, was expected later in the year. Some false positives were experienced during testing, and the engine struggled with adaptive cruise control. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were pending, but previous rollover resistance ratings were carried over.