2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a strong first impression with its massive size and bold design. The grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights were scaled to match its imposing presence, and the front end looked reminiscent of a diesel locomotive. The tall hood and vertical running lights added to its robust character. The Escalade differentiated itself from other GM full-size SUVs with distinct styling elements, though all emphasized its bulk. It rode on the same body-on-frame architecture as its GM siblings like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban and GMC Yukon. Internally, the Escalade aimed for luxury with leather upholstery, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof, but it lacked a cohesive design theme and included some cheap-looking plastic bits. Different trim levels offered varied exterior finishes, adding either bright or darkened trim to distinguish between sport and luxury models.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and grace with quad-lamp headlights and a bold grille. The midsize SUV measured just over 16 feet and featured 19-inch standard wheels, with our Prestige trim riding on 22-inch alloys. The quad-lamp design extended to the rear taillamps, complementing the elegant, boxy profile. Our tester’s matte Brunswick Green paint added an extra touch of sophistication. Inside, the dark green color theme continued on the quilted leather seats, surrounded by metal and matte wood trim. The center console's three large dials controlled the infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, and the unconventional two-spoke steering wheel stood out among competitors. Though the 14.5-inch infotainment screen awkwardly perched atop the dash, the interior remained spacious and luxurious, making it a pleasant space for any journey.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain options, both shared with other GM SUVs and trucks. The standard 6.2-liter gasoline V8 produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while the optional $100 Duramax 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engine generated 277 horsepower and the same 460 pound-feet of torque, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. We tested the diesel variant, which, despite less horsepower than the V8, provided smooth power delivery and excellent torque at low RPMs. However, the braking system’s hard pedal response was less reassuring. The gasoline engine offered a slight towing advantage with a maximum capacity of 8,200 pounds compared to the diesel's 8,100 pounds. Despite its independent rear suspension and available air suspension, the Escalade’s ride felt unsettled, especially on imperfect roads. It lacked off-road capabilities compared to GM cousins like the Tahoe Z71 or Yukon AT4.

The 2023 Genesis GV80, available only with all-wheel drive, offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Our tester’s V6, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was slightly slower to 60 mph compared to some competitors, taking around five and a half seconds. While not the most athletic SUV, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery, refined shifts, and an electronically controlled suspension that pre-adjusted for road conditions. The active noise cancellation further enhanced the commuting experience, making it remarkably quiet and smooth on highways.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade shared its body shell and chassis with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, while the longer Escalade ESV mirrored the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. The standard model measured 211.9 inches in length, while the ESV stretched to 227 inches. This platform sharing resulted in a cavernous cabin with the most first- and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. Although the Lincoln Navigator offered more second-row headroom, the Escalade provided ample cargo space: 25.5 cubic feet with all seats in place, 63 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 109.1 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Despite its spacious interior, the center console lacked convenient storage, and the seats felt similar to those in lower GM models, though they were power adjustable and offered massage features.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 boasted a plethora of luxury features, from heated front seats and a heated steering wheel to ventilated front and rear seats. The Ergo Motion driver’s seat helped reduce fatigue with its inflatable pockets, and the Nappa leather upholstery added to the opulence. A third-row option was available but offered limited legroom, suitable mainly for children. With the Genesis proximity key and a digital key, along with tri-zone climate control and an optional 21-speaker stereo system, the luxury offered extended to every passenger. Cargo space was substantial, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. Towing capacity was a respectable 6,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured an intricate 38-inch curved OLED display composed of three screens: a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 16.9-inch touchscreen, and a 7.2-inch trip-computer screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were standard. Cadillac carefully integrated the display into the dashboard, with diagonally arranged icons enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. Physical toggles for climate control were a thoughtful inclusion. However, features like the radio station carousel and rotary controller were less intuitive. The Escalade's OLED screens provided high-resolution views for the 360-degree camera system, with camera views available in both the instrument cluster and central touchscreen. The rearview camera mirror offered a clear view without blind spots. Additional tech included a head-up display, night vision, and augmented-reality navigation. The 19-speaker AKG Studio sound system, while extensive, was challenging to tune properly.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The head-up display projected essential information into the driver’s view. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, it could be controlled by a dial with a “clicky” feel, capable of detecting handwriting for easier navigation and radio searches. The menu structure required some learning, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, albeit not wirelessly. Wireless charging, along with multiple USB, 12-volt, and 110-volt outlets, ensured devices stayed powered. The GV80’s remote smart parking assist allowed the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside, enhancing convenience in tight spaces.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured standard driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with trailer blind-spot monitoring on Premium Luxury Platinum trims. For $2,500, Super Cruise offered advanced hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways, using a driver-facing camera to ensure attention. While Super Cruise occasionally disengaged unexpectedly, it generally provided smooth and natural responses. The Escalade lacked official safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for that model year.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was well-equipped with advanced driver aids such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Unique to Genesis, a blind-spot video feed displayed in the digital gauge cluster, and Highway Drive Assist offered hands-on/eyes-up driving on approved highways. The GV80 received a full five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with high marks in side crashes and slightly lower marks in frontal and rollover tests. IIHS rated the GV80 as Good in crashworthiness and Superior in front crash prevention, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.