Cadillac Escalade ESV vs Mercedes-Benz GLE

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 regular Escalade's 211.9 inches, and slightly lower in height. This additional length was primarily at the rear, enhancing cargo space and providing a more stable ride due to its extended wheelbase of 134.1 inches. 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 further enhanced by features like LED headlights, a power panoramic moonroof, and heated mirrors, contributing to its upscale look.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe presented a sleek and athletic design, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker from certain angles. The test vehicle's Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels added to its appeal. Despite Mercedes shelving many V8 models, the AMG GLE 53 Coupe remained, offering a base price of $77,800. Inside, the GLE Coupe was sumptuous, featuring high-end materials like Nappa leather and a dual-screen infotainment system. The cabin's ambient lighting and brushed aluminum trim added to its allure. However, the interior design's simplicity masked its complexity, requiring time for users to acclimate to its technology.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: 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) or four-wheel drive (4WD). The Escalade ESV's V8 engine provided sufficient power, though it could have benefited from more low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The vehicle's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, depending on the trim level. Fuel economy was estimated at 17 to 23 mpg combined, with RWD versions being more efficient.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, enhanced by an EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup provided robust acceleration and a fuel economy of 18.5 mpg during testing. The GLE Coupe's performance was further enhanced by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, and AMG Dynamic Select driving modes. The vehicle's suspension and braking systems contributed to its nimble and composed handling, though the brake pedal could be challenging to modulate in traffic. The GLE Coupe excelled in Sport+ mode, offering impressive grip and braking performance on challenging roads.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable people and cargo hauler, 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, while the third row was less accommodating for adults. 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 power-adjustable third row could be folded using a switch in the cargo area, though it occasionally required manual adjustment. The hands-free power liftgate was convenient but sometimes unreliable.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, while the back seat provided ample legroom. The cargo hold measured 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The GLE Coupe's interior featured comfort upgrades like a four-zone climate control system and a Warmth and Comfort Package. Despite its coupe-like design, the GLE Coupe offered a surprising amount of space for passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV stood out for its technology, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with an optional 36-speaker upgrade. The vehicle included wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. A curved 38-inch OLED screen housed three displays for driver information and infotainment, offering unparalleled graphics quality. Cadillac's Super Cruise advanced driving assist system was available, allowing hands-free driving on select highways. While Super Cruise generally performed well, it occasionally struggled in certain conditions and required driver intervention.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant, augmented video for navigation, and a head-up display. The system's intuitive design and advanced features made it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-change alert, and night vision. The NHTSA awarded the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating in the rollover test due to its top-heavy design.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound feature emitted a tone to protect hearing during a collision. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, though crash-test results were unavailable.