Acura MDX vs Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for that model year. It was notably longer, measuring 226.9 inches compared to the Escalade's 211.9 inches, and slightly lower at 76.4 inches. This additional length was primarily at the rear, enhancing cargo space. The wheelbase was also extended to 134.1 inches, improving stability and design proportions, giving it a more balanced appearance. The Escalade ESV boasted a luxurious exterior with chrome styling on certain trims and blacked-out accents on others, all riding on 22-inch wheels. The grille design varied across trim levels, adding to its upscale look. Standard features included LED headlights, roof rails, and power-extending assist steps, with options for a panoramic moonroof and other premium features. However, the interior, while spacious, was criticized for its use of hard plastics and lack of unique design elements, which detracted from its luxury appeal.

The 2022 Acura MDX, on the other hand, was built on a new dedicated platform, offering a sportier and more modern design. It featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The MDX was equipped with Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to its assertive look. Inside, the MDX was modernized with a layered dashboard, authentic materials like natural wood and genuine aluminum, and a unique gear selection system. The infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety, and the cabin offered a spacious feel with comfortable seating. The MDX's exterior was available in a variety of colors, and the interior offered multiple themes, adding to its customizable luxury experience.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine choices: a standard 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six with 277 horsepower and the same torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). The Escalade ESV was a heavy vehicle, weighing between 5,785 and 6,182 pounds, which affected its performance, especially when towing. The V8 engine provided sufficient power but lacked low-end torque for high-speed passing. Fuel economy was estimated at 17 to 23 mpg combined, with RWD versions being more efficient.

The 2022 Acura MDX came with a single engine option at launch, a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 delivering 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). The SH-AWD system offered torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded with a double-wishbone setup in the front and revised rear multi-link suspension, improving ride quality and sporty handling. The MDX's overall stiffness and rigidity were improved, providing a solid ride feel. The 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the engine, offering smooth performance across five drive modes.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed for comfort and cargo capacity, offering leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated seats, tri-zone climate control, and a hands-free power liftgate. The ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, with a spacious third row. Cargo space was generous, with 126.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third. However, the hands-free power liftgate was inconsistent, and the third-row folding mechanism could be cumbersome.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered versatile seating with dual bucket sport seats in the front and a second row with a removable center section. The second row could slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers. Cargo space ranged from 16.3 to 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 95 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured "Grab ‘N Go" and hands-free access, enhancing convenience. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, adding to the cabin's ambiance.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with a 19-speaker AKG sound system, upgradeable to a 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference system. It featured a 38-inch OLED screen with three displays for driver information and infotainment. The system supported wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Cadillac's Super Cruise offered advanced driving assistance, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. However, it occasionally struggled with lane changes and required driver intervention in certain conditions.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification in higher trims. The infotainment system featured a 12.3-inch screen and the Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel. Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, along with a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air updates. The MDX also included a head-up display, CabinTalk feature, and a surround-view camera system in higher trims.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came with standard safety features like front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional options included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and advanced adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA gave the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating in the rollover test.

The 2022 Acura MDX had not yet been rated by safety organizations, but it was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and advanced safety structures. The front end was redesigned for pedestrian safety, and the low-speed braking control system enhanced safety in urban environments. The AcuraWatch suite included collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.