2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, notably in the Black Line Special Edition, aimed to capture the affection of those who adore black-on-black aesthetics. The Black Line trim effectively eradicated chrome from the SUV's exterior, transforming it into a dark, brooding vehicle, especially in the Black Onyx paint option. However, despite its dramatic appearance, the GX 460 quickly showed signs of age, both in exterior design and interior layout. Lexus attempted to modernize the GX with features like the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, yet the SUV's overall form remained reminiscent of its earlier models from two decades ago. Inside, the cabin quality stood out for its craftsmanship and serene environment but retained a somewhat dated aesthetic.

Conversely, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement right from the start. As a massive SUV, its imposing front end with a tall hood, vertical running lights, and horizontal headlights, along with a large grille, ensured the vehicle stood out. The scale of the Escalade's features, from the LED lights to the vast expanse of sheet metal adorned with 22-inch wheels, emphasized its size. Unlike previous models, the Escalade of 2022 successfully differentiated itself from other GM full-size SUVs. Cadillac offered both "sport" and "luxury" trims with corresponding exterior finishes, ensuring a tailored look for different preferences. The interior, though absolutely luxurious with leather upholstery, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof, didn’t present a cohesive design theme as seen in some competitors.

The performance of the 2022 Lexus GX 460 centered around its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. Despite a respectable torque figure, the GX struggled to establish itself as a powerhouse, managing a 7.8-second run to 60 mph. This engine, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and an always-on full-time 4WD system, worked diligently but wasn’t particularly fuel-efficient with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. However, the GX excelled off-road, aided by the Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) and various off-road packages that enhanced its rugged capabilities. Yet, the heavy steering and sensitive brake pedal detracted from its overall handling in day-to-day driving.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade, with its standard 6.2-liter V8 engine or an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engine, delivered a more robust performance tailored to various driving needs. The V8 churned out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, while the diesel offered 277 horsepower but matched the torque of the V8. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered a choice between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. Impressively, the Escalade diesel handled smoothly despite its lower horsepower, leveraging its torque advantage at lower RPMs for robust performance. When towing, the gasoline engine showed a slight advantage with an 8,200-pound maximum capacity. However, a firm brake pedal and less settled ride quality on typical road conditions detracted slightly from its driving comfort.

Stepping into the 2022 Lexus GX offered drivers a high vantage point from a 10-way power-adjustable seat. The GX's dimensions made it adaptable for different environments, yet the slow steering posed a challenge in maneuverability. The cabin prioritized comfort with ample padding and straightforward, albeit somewhat outdated, controls. Unfortunately, the layout sometimes caused confusion, such as mistaking knobs for stereo adjustments. Interior space was limited, especially the third-row seat suitable mainly for children, and accessing it was cumbersome. Storage capacity was another issue; with the third-row seat in use, cargo space was meager, and the side-opening tailgate complicated loading in tight spaces.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade excelled in providing a cavernous interior owing to its shared platform with other GM full-size SUVs. Offering the most legroom in its class, the Escalade catered to comfort across all rows, featuring power-adjustable seats in both the second and third rows. Cargo space was abundant, boasting 25.5 cubic feet with all seats occupied, expanding to 109.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded, although minor practical issues like limited storage space on the raised center console persisted. The adjustable front seats featured massage functions but borrowed heavily from other GM models, affecting perceived exclusivity.

For 2022, the Lexus GX 460 introduced a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an overdue improvement that significantly enhanced usability. The system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. Although equipped with physical controls for ease, the arrangement was somewhat illogical, placing stereo controls below lesser-used off-roading settings. The voice recognition system, however, functioned effectively, and additional features like a CD player and a high-quality audio system (optional) catered to both modern and nostalgic preferences.

Cadillac's technological prowess in the Escalade was unmistakable, prominently featuring a 38-inch curved OLED display that seamlessly integrated three screens. This setup provided unparalleled resolution and user experience with customizable display icons and physical toggles for essential functions. The Escalade also included advanced tech options like night vision and augmented-reality navigation. The 360-degree camera system was particularly notable for its clarity and practical placement within the instrument cluster. Despite some difficulties with tuning the audio system, the technological offerings in the Escalade significantly surpassed those in the Lexus GX.

In terms of safety, the Lexus GX, an older design, lacked modern crash-test ratings. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it did miss several advanced driver-assistance systems available in newer models. It relied on conventional safety technologies but was devoid of more sophisticated aids found in competitors, such as advanced lane-keeping systems or evasive steering assist.

In contrast, the Cadillac Escalade was packed with advanced safety features. Standard driver aids encompassed adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trim levels included advanced options like Super Cruise, a highly sophisticated semi-autonomous driving system that facilitated hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways with an impressive level of smoothness and responsiveness. However, no crash-test ratings were available, somewhat clouding the overall safety assessment.