2022 Lexus NX vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased design cues influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, the Escalade retained familiar styling elements, including crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. It sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time and offered various trims, from the base model at $76,195 to the luxurious Platinum trim at $99,995. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim with four-wheel drive, featured Shadow Metallic paint, a 36-speaker AKG sound system, and other high-end options, totaling $102,310. Inside, the Escalade impressed with its leather and wood trim options, though some plastic elements were less forgivable given the price.

The redesigned 2022 Lexus NX, available in four model series, offered a range of trims from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, reviewed in F Sport and Luxury trims, featured a distinctive spindle grille and new block lettering on the tailgate. The NX grew in size, providing more passenger and cargo space, and introduced NuLuxe simulated leather and real leather in Luxury trim. The F Sport trim stood out with unique styling elements and sport-bolstered seats. The interior adopted a minimalist design, with most functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and a no-cost 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. The V8 featured direct fuel injection, an automatic stop/start system, and Dynamic Fuel Management, achieving an EPA-estimated 16 mpg combined. The turbo-diesel, with 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, promised better fuel economy. The Escalade's ride and handling improved significantly with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled experience. However, the brake pedal could have offered better modulation.

The 2022 Lexus NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350h hybrid offered 239 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 39 mpg combined, while the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower and 36 miles of electric range. The NX 350 F Sport, with its adaptive variable sports suspension and 20-inch wheels, provided a taut and lean driving experience, while the NX 350 Luxury offered a softer ride. The NX 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with observed fuel economy of 22.2 mpg for the F Sport and 25.5 mpg for the Luxury. The turbocharged engine, while powerful, lacked the refinement of German rivals.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's new independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase resulted in a more spacious and comfortable cabin. Front seats offered 12-way or 16-way power adjustments, with heated and ventilated options. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and slid for better leg support, while the third-row seat provided ample space for adults. Cargo capacity increased to 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 63 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 109.1 cubic feet with both rows down. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more cargo space, with up to 126.6 cubic feet.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room, though it felt cozy from the driver's seat. Front seats were comfortable, with better bolstering in the F Sport trim. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space, with rear air vents, heated cushions, and USB ports. The panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, enhancing the sense of space. Cargo capacity increased to 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a 38-inch curved OLED display with greater pixel density than a 4K TV. The 14.2-inch instrumentation screen offered Gauge, AR Camera, and Map displays, though switching between them required navigating through menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but voice recognition had limitations. The AR navigation system and 19-speaker AKG sound system were impressive, with a 36-speaker AKG Reference system available. A full-color head-up display was standard on most trims.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant, and cloud-based services. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The Voice Assistant responded to natural commands, and a three-year trial of Drive Connect service was included. Additional features included a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and User Profiles for personalized settings.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade came with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and a Safety Alert Seat. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The optional Driver Assist Tech Package included higher-speed emergency braking, rear emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Escalade's size provided inherent safety, but there were occasional false alarms with the ADAS.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, Oncoming Pedestrian Detection, and Curve Speed Management. The Emergency Driving Stop System brought the NX to a safe stop if the driver was unresponsive. Standard features included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Premium trim added rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, semi-autonomous parking assist, and rear cross-traffic braking. The Vision Package offered a panoramic view monitor, front cross-traffic alert, and lane-change assistance.