Cadillac Escalade ESV vs Subaru Ascent

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 was available in various trims, each with distinct styling elements, such as chrome accents on Luxury trims and blacked-out features on Sport trims. All versions rode on 22-inch wheels, with variations in finishes and spoke designs. The vehicle boasted luxury features like LED lighting, power-extending assist steps, and a panoramic moonroof, though the interior was criticized for its use of hard plastics and lack of unique design elements, especially given its high price point.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced a new Onyx Edition trim, featuring a blacked-out exterior, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, and unique interior trim. This trim level was positioned in the middle of the Ascent lineup, offering a sporty appearance. The Onyx Edition included water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats, which were available in a gray two-tone scheme. While the interior was generally well-received, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making it uncomfortable in hot weather. The Ascent's interior featured metallic trim on the dashboard and door panels, contributing to a modern aesthetic. The vehicle was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, providing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The Ascent was praised for its responsive acceleration and off-road capabilities, though its lane-keeping and lane-centering technologies were noted to be less refined.

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 460 pound-feet 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 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 not officially rated by the EPA for the ESV, but the traditional Escalade achieved an estimated 17 to 23 mpg combined. During testing, the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The Ascent's engine, with its horizontally-opposed layout, provided a lower center of gravity for improved handling. The CVT was praised for its performance, offering eight programmed ratios and manual shift control. The Ascent could tow up to 5,000 pounds and achieved an EPA fuel-economy rating of 22 mpg combined, though testing showed an average of 20.5 mpg. The vehicle's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance contributed to its off-road capabilities. The Ascent was noted for its responsive acceleration and nimble handling, though its lane-keeping and lane-centering technologies were less refined.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a luxurious people and cargo hauler, offering leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. The ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, though the third row was less comfortable 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 was prone to getting stuck on the second-row seats. The hands-free power liftgate was only partially reliable, and the rear window could be opened for additional storage options.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent Onyx Edition featured water-resistant seat material, triple-zone climate control, heated front seats, and heated side mirrors. The second-row seats were easily accessible, with wide rear doors that opened to nearly a 90-degree angle. Captain's chairs were available, and the panoramic sunroof extended over the second-row seats. The Ascent offered ample storage, with a useful shelf running the width of the dashboard and large cupholders in the second row. Cargo capacity was 17.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 86.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The power liftgate provided easy access to the cargo area.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. It featured wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's standout feature was its 38-inch curved OLED screen, which housed three screens displaying driver information and infotainment. The screen's OLED technology provided deep blacks and crisp graphics. Cadillac's Super Cruise advanced driving assist system was available, allowing for hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise generally performed well, it struggled in certain conditions, such as bright sunlight or recent road construction. The lane-change technology was effective but sometimes slow to respond.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. Premium trim added an 8-inch display with available Starlink connected services, including a WiFi hotspot and remote engine starting. The system included volume and tuning knobs, as well as buttons for shortcuts. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, its voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, which lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features, such as a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree-view front camera, were reserved for the Touring trim level.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-keep assist, and night vision. The NHTSA gave the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating for rollover resistance. The Ascent featured Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance technology, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. While EyeSight was generally effective, it struggled in direct sunlight and lacked refinement in its adaptive cruise control and lane-centering functions.