Cadillac Escalade ESV vs Kia Telluride

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 extension primarily enhanced cargo space, with a wheelbase stretched to 134.1 inches, improving stability and design proportions. The Escalade ESV boasted a luxurious appearance with chrome styling on various trim levels, while Sport models featured blacked-out accents. All versions rode on 22-inch wheels, with finishes varying by trim. The vehicle's exterior was equipped with features like LED headlights, roof rails, and power-extending assist steps, contributing to its luxurious look. However, the interior, despite its high price, was criticized for its use of hard plastics and lack of unique design elements.

The 2022 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, was praised for its muscular design and balanced proportions, maintaining its handsome appearance with minor updates like a new grille pattern and Kia's new badges. Available in LX, S, EX, and SX trims, the Telluride offered a range of prices from $32,790 to $44,590, with AWD available for an additional cost. The interior was well-organized and appealing, though the glossy plastic in the lower cabin was noted as a drawback. The SX Prestige trim featured Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner, enhancing the upscale feel. The Telluride's interior was equipped with numerous standard features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and advanced driving aids, making it a well-rounded and attractive option for consumers.

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's V8 engine provided sufficient power, though it lacked low-end torque for high-speed passing. The vehicle's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, affecting its performance when towing. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but the RWD version averaged around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Kia Telluride was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While it lacked alternative engine options, the Telluride's performance was satisfying, with AWD offering a Lock mode for power distribution. The SUV's ride quality was smooth, with a brake-based Torque Vectoring Cornering Control system enhancing handling. The Telluride's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined for AWD models, with the SX AWD returning 21.1 mpg during testing. The vehicle's towing capacity was capped at 5,000 pounds.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed for comfort and cargo capacity, featuring leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. The ESV offered 126.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third row. However, the power-adjustable third row could be cumbersome to fold, and the hands-free liftgate was inconsistent in operation. The vehicle also featured an adaptive air suspension and an optional center console cooler.

The 2022 Kia Telluride balanced form and function with an upscale interior design and practical features like grab handles and overhead air vents. The SX Prestige trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a simulated suede headliner, creating a premium feel. The Telluride's interior was equipped with heated and ventilated seats, dual sunroof panels, and a Smart Power Liftgate. All three rows were comfortable for adults, though the third row was less desirable. The Telluride provided 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with it folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet. The SUV's folding seats and flat load floor facilitated easy cargo loading.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with advanced technology, including a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. The vehicle featured a curved 38-inch OLED screen housing three displays for driver information and infotainment. The system was praised for its crisp graphics and responsive touchscreen. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. However, it occasionally struggled with lane changes and required driver intervention in certain conditions.

The 2022 Kia Telluride came standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including navigation and voice recognition. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wire, the system offered Kia Connect, a connected services platform with features like 911 Connect, remote engine start, and smart speaker integration. The Telluride also included Quiet Mode and Driver Talk functions for managing audio and communication within the vehicle. The SX trim featured a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, and a surround-view monitoring system.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with safety features like front automatic braking, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional technologies were available, including adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and night vision. The NHTSA gave the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rollover test result.

The 2022 Kia Telluride included standard safety features under the Kia Drive Wise umbrella, such as forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Telluride also featured Highway Driving Assist and Safe Exit Assist. The NHTSA awarded the Telluride a five-star overall rating, while the IIHS named it a "Top Safety Pick."