2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design evolution influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, it retained familiar styling elements, such as the standard 22-inch wheels and vertical OLED taillights. The Escalade was available starting at $76,195, with various trims like the Premium Luxury and Sport offering additional luxury features. The test model, priced at $102,310, included a range of premium features, such as a 36-speaker AKG sound system and advanced driver assistance packages. Inside, the Escalade offered a luxurious cabin with options for leather upholstery and various wood trims, although some interior materials fell short of expectations given the price.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover's redesign was more evolutionary, maintaining its iconic broad and rounded face. The most notable change was at the rear, with new thin LED taillights. The interior was simplified, featuring a larger touchscreen and fewer buttons, enhancing its modern appeal. The Range Rover's cabin was adorned with premium materials, offering a luxurious experience comparable to high-end brands like Maybach or Bentley. The vehicle's solid build quality and quiet ride further emphasized its luxury status, making it a standout in the premium SUV segment.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and an optional 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 Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension and advanced adaptive dampers, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience. The V8's fuel economy was rated at 16 mpg combined, while the diesel engine promised better efficiency. The Escalade excelled on highways, offering a quiet and comfortable ride, with the upcoming Super Cruise technology enhancing its long-distance cruising capabilities.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and a P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 horsepower. The P400 provided impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the P530 offered even more power. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm driving experience. Standard rear-wheel steering improved maneuverability, and the Terrain Response system ensured off-road capability. The Range Rover's ride quality was smooth and quiet, making it a comfortable luxury SUV.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's interior was significantly improved, offering more passenger room and cargo capacity due to its new independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. Front seats were comfortable and adjustable, with options for massaging functions. The second-row seats provided ample leg support, and the third-row seats were now suitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 109.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were comfortable, with available massage functions, and there was plenty of storage space for personal items. The second row offered generous legroom and power adjustments, while the optional third row was suitable for smaller passengers. Cargo space was limited with all seats in use, but folding the third row expanded capacity to 43.1 cubic feet, with a maximum of 93 cubic feet available. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension made loading cargo easier.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a 38-inch curved OLED display with high pixel density, offering impressive visuals. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although some user experience improvements were needed. The AR navigation system and AKG sound system were highlights, with the latter offering a 36-speaker upgrade. Voice recognition technology had limitations, and physical controls were often preferred over the touchscreen.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover introduced a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality. The system's design required more touchscreen interaction, but some basic controls were intuitive. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Premium Luxury trim added blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Escalade's safety systems generally performed well, though there were occasional false alarms. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised enhanced autonomous driving capabilities.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features such as frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed reliably, with no false alarms during testing. While the Range Rover's safety equipment was adequate, some competitors offered additional advanced features.