2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the brand underwent a transformation, developing new platforms like the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for its flagship SUV, the XC90. The 2022 model showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches that emphasized its dynamic stance. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, featuring natural wood and metal trim, and offered a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery, reflecting Volvo's commitment to sustainability.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a behemoth of an SUV, towering nearly six-and-a-half feet above the ground and offering an expansive interior space. The Escalade's design cleverly masked its bulk with thin LED lights and darkened chrome accents, giving it a more athletic appearance. Inside, the Escalade boasted a luxurious first-row experience with a 38-inch curved screen dashboard and a variety of leather options. However, the quality diminished in the second and third rows, where parts from cheaper GM vehicles were evident. Despite its shortcomings, the Escalade's spaciousness and advanced technology, like the Super Cruise hands-free driving system, made it a compelling choice for those seeking a large, luxurious SUV.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the T5 model's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 model enhanced this with a supercharged and turbocharged version, delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, achieving a robust 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. The XC90's driving experience was notable for its minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model, which provided spirited acceleration and a fun driving experience.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade, on the other hand, featured a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, suitable for towing up to 8,200 pounds. However, its performance felt heavy, and competitors offered more agility. The Escalade-V addressed this with a supercharged V8 producing 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque, but it seemed excessive for most needs. An optional 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 provided a smoother and more efficient alternative, with 277 hp and a combined 22 mpg. The Escalade's magnetic dampers and air suspension contributed to a nimble and maneuverable ride, though wind noise at highway speeds detracted from its luxury feel.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was best suited for children, the XC90 excelled in cargo capacity, offering up to 85.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was thoughtfully designed with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof, providing a comfortable and airy cabin environment.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted an exceptionally spacious interior, with 25 cubic feet behind the third row, 73 cubic feet behind the second row, and a massive 121 cubic feet with both rows down. The Escalade ESV variant offered even more space, making it a leader in passenger and cargo capacity. The interior featured user-friendly controls, a front console refrigerator, and power-retractable side steps for easy access. The air suspension facilitated loading and unloading, while the tailgate's separate glass window was a practical touch for pet owners.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which offered tablet-like functionality with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While intuitive, the system could be glitchy and slow, but Apple CarPlay improved its performance. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The XC90 came with a standard Harman Kardon sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade for audiophiles. USB ports and a WiFi hotspot added convenience, while the Volvo Care app provided remote vehicle controls.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade stood out with its OLED screens, providing sharp and clear visuals across the dashboard. The front camera's high-res feed and Super Cruise hands-free driving system were industry-leading features. Super Cruise offered hands-free highway driving with infrared eye-tracking for safety. The Escalade also included night vision with pedestrian detection and a 36-speaker AKG audio system. The front seats offered massage functions, and the rear-seat entertainment system could stream apps, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade earned four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with lower ratings for front-passenger protection and rollover resistance. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking and a Safety Alert seat. Optional features like reverse emergency braking and Super Cruise enhanced safety, though some systems were prone to false activations.