2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Genesis GV70 showcased a distinctive design, borrowing some styling cues from other Genesis models but maintaining its unique identity. It featured quad LED strips for headlights and taillights, a prominent shield-shaped grille, and a sloping roofline that added a fastback flair. The ribbed detailing enhanced its muscular profile, blending SUV bulk with sleek, car-like elements. The Sport Prestige variant added character with unique styling, including 21-inch wheels and dark chrome trim, while the interior boasted an elliptical theme inspired by an airplane wing, offering a minimalistic yet luxurious feel with options like Nappa leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade stood as a towering presence, nearly six-and-a-half feet tall and up to 19 feet long. It was designed for show, with a massive body shared with the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL. Despite its size, the Escalade appeared athletic, thanks to thin LED lights and darkened chrome on the Sport Platinum trim. The interior was rich, featuring a 38-inch curved screen array and high-quality wood inlays. However, some elements borrowed from cheaper GM vehicles detracted from its luxury feel, especially in the rear rows.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 included features like a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing a sporty character. However, the chassis felt heavy, lacking the sharpness of competitors like the BMW X3. The ride was firm, even in Comfort mode, and the exhaust sound was not particularly pleasant.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, suitable for towing up to 8,200 pounds. The 10-speed automatic transmission was responsive, but the Escalade felt heavy during acceleration. The Escalade-V variant offered a supercharged V8 with 682 horsepower, providing impressive acceleration. An optional 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 delivered better fuel economy and smooth torque delivery. The Escalade's magnetic dampers and air suspension improved maneuverability, though wind noise was noticeable at highway speeds.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 provided mid-pack interior space, with adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. Cargo space was 28.9 cubic feet with seats up and 56.9 cubic feet with seats down. The interior design compromised storage space, but included features like a covered storage cubby and climate controls for rear passengers. The front seats offered heating, ventilation, and massage functions, though some controls were buried in menus.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade excelled in interior space, offering 25 cubic feet behind the third row, 73 cubic feet behind the second, and 121 cubic feet with both rows down. The independent rear suspension allowed for generous headroom and legroom in all rows. The controls were user-friendly, with a smart infotainment system and optional features like a front console refrigerator. Power-retractable side steps and an air suspension facilitated access and loading.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-inch head-up display. The digital key and fingerprint scanner added convenience, while the rear-seat monitor used radar to detect a baby's breathing. Genesis Connected Services offered remote camera activation and other features for three years.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted OLED screens across the dash, providing sharp visuals. The Super Cruise system offered hands-free highway driving with eye-tracking cameras. Night vision with pedestrian detection and a 36-speaker AKG audio system enhanced the tech experience. The rear-seat entertainment system could stream apps, and the front seats offered multiple massage options.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with standard safety features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It included eight airbags, with optional features like Highway Driving Assist 2 for lane-change functionality.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade received four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with standard features like forward automatic emergency braking and a Safety Alert seat. Optional features included reverse emergency braking and Super Cruise, though some systems had limitations.