2021 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban's design a 5 out of 10 and the 2021 Cadillac Escalade a 9 out of 10. The Suburban's design, while modern and potentially polarizing, leverages a bold, aggressive styling that borrows from the Chevrolet Camaro. Despite its massive frame and challenging front-end design, the Suburban offers a familiar and functional interior, albeit with some quality and material concerns at its High Country trim level. Conversely, the Cadillac Escalade embraces its heritage and futuristic design cues inspired by the Escala concept vehicle. With its crisp creases, standard 22-inch wheels, and striking OLED taillights, the Escalade presents a more refined and luxurious exterior and interior. It justifies its premium over the Suburban with higher-quality materials, though some plastic components remain at lower touch points.

Performance ratings from CarGurus experts reveal a 6 out of 10 for the Suburban and a 9 out of 10 for the Escalade. The Suburban offers a range of engines, including a base 5.3-liter V8 and an optional 6.2-liter V8 or Duramax diesel, providing ample power but revealing its truck-based heritage in ride and handling. The addition of an independent rear suspension improves its ride quality, but body roll and susceptibility to crosswinds remain. The Escalade also offers a choice between a standard 6.2-liter V8 and an optional turbo-diesel, with both engines paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. It benefits significantly from an independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and an optional air ride suspension, delivering a smoother ride, improved handling, and reduced body motions, making it superior in performance dynamics to the Suburban.

Both vehicles score a 10 out of 10 in form and function from CarGurus experts. The Suburban shines with its massive cargo space, offering up to 144.7 cubic feet with seats folded, and provides ample passenger space and comfort. However, its practicality is marred by some design choices, such as the button shifter and power-sliding center console. The Escalade's redesign significantly enhances its cabin and cargo space for the 2021 model year, thanks to a new independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. It offers improved third-row comfort and up to 109.1 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a more versatile and comfortable option for passengers and cargo alike.

Technology ratings are 9 out of 10 for the Suburban and 8 out of 10 for the Escalade. The Suburban is well-equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, providing a user-friendly interface. However, the Escalade sets a new standard with its 38-inch curved OLED display, offering unmatched clarity and an immersive experience, despite some usability issues and the need for user experience improvements.

Safety scores for both vehicles are 8 out of 10. The Suburban is equipped with essential safety features and offers additional options like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera. The Escalade includes advanced standard safety features across all trims, but experienced a few false alarms during testing. Both vehicles offer robust safety packages, but the Escalade's technology gives it a slight edge.