Cadillac Escalade ESV vs Mazda CX-50

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, with a slightly lower height. 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 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 further enhanced by features like LED headlights, roof rails, and a power panoramic moonroof, contributing to its luxurious appeal.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 was considered an attractive option in the compact SUV class, borrowing styling elements from the CX-5 but with more pronounced fender flares and a wider grille for a sportier stance. Its interior featured a traditional layout with classier materials than many rivals, including soft-touch surfaces and distinct stitching. The hybrid model offered exclusive red leather upholstery, adding vibrancy to the cabin. While the decorative stripe on the seats added visual interest, its placement was sometimes awkward. Despite this, the CX-50 positioned itself above other compact SUVs, leaning toward entry-level luxury in design and interior quality.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered a choice between a 6.2-liter V8 engine delivering 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine with 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of 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 V8 engine provided sufficient power, though it could have benefited from more low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The Escalade ESV's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, depending on the trim level. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but the RWD version averaged around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, producing 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, with all-wheel drive (AWD). This powertrain was shared with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offering a familiar and reliable setup. Acceleration was expected to be similar to the RAV4 Hybrid, reaching 60 mph in 7.5 to 8 seconds. The CX-50 featured a sportier suspension tuning, providing engaging handling and minimal body roll. While the ride quality was firmer, it remained smooth enough for most passengers, and the cabin was quiet on the highway.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable and plush people and cargo hauler. It featured leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Buyers could upgrade to 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functionality and a panoramic sunroof. The Escalade ESV offered ample legroom in the first two rows, with the third row being suitable for occasional adult use. Cargo space was generous, with 126.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third row. The hands-free power liftgate and adaptive air suspension added convenience, while the rear window could open for additional storage options.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50, while enjoyable to drive, fell short in terms of practicality and space compared to competitors. The front seats offered ample room, but the rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers. Personal storage was adequate, but rivals provided more options. Cargo space was limited to 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, less than the non-hybrid CX-50 and significantly below the class average. However, the space was still usable for day-to-day needs, aided by a standard power liftgate and a large storage bin under the cargo floor.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was a technological standout, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. It included wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's 38-inch OLED screen housed three displays for driver information and infotainment, offering unparalleled graphics quality. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise generally worked well, it occasionally struggled with lane changes and construction zones, requiring driver intervention.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50's technology was more understated, featuring a 10.25-inch horizontal infotainment system controlled by a dial on the center console. While touchscreen functionality was limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the dial controller offered a distraction-free experience. All models came with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The base audio system featured eight speakers, while the Premium trim included a 12-speaker Bose system.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, safety seat alert, lane-keep assist, and forward-collision assist. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, rear camera mirror, lane-departure warning, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, night vision, and adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA awarded the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating for rollover protection.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests, except for rollover protection, where it received four stars. The non-hybrid 2024 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Secondary features included a rear passenger reminder, driver attention monitor, and safe exit alerts.