Cadillac Escalade ESV vs Volvo XC90

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 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 variations in finishes and spoke designs depending on the trim. The vehicle's exterior was further enhanced by features like LED headlights, a power panoramic moonroof, and optional packages that added to its luxury appeal.

Inside, the Escalade ESV's interior was less impressive, particularly in lighter color schemes where the use of General Motors' standard switches and knobs detracted from its luxury status. Hard plastics were prevalent, lacking the refinement seen in competitors like Mercedes-Benz. Despite its high price point, the dashboard area lacked distinctive features. The Escalade ESV aimed to deliver a first-class experience but fell short in some interior aspects, especially considering its price range.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while moving into the luxury class. The XC90, launched as a 2016 model, was Volvo's flagship SUV, built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform. It featured a sleek and athletic design with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, exuding quality with superior fit and finish. The LED headlights, known as "Thor's Hammer," added a touch of Swedish heritage to its appearance.

Inside, the XC90's interior was described as "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim creating an authentic feel. Exquisite details like the sliding wood tambour cover and crystal gear selector handle emphasized its luxury status. Volvo's commitment to going leather-free by 2030 was evident, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery. The XC90's interior was designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable experience, with attention to detail and quality materials.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: a standard 6.2-liter V8 delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine producing 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) 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, ranging from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, posed challenges for the engine when towing. The EPA estimated fuel economy for the traditional Escalade ranged from 17 to 23 mpg combined, with RWD versions being more efficient. During testing, the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options. T5 models featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. T6 models had a supercharged and turbocharged version of the engine, delivering 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The T8 plug-in hybrid combined the supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. T5 models were available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while T6 and T8 models were AWD only. All XC90 models used an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T8 model offered an EV range of up to 36 miles and a combined rating of 66 MPGe. The XC90's driving experience was superb, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the T8 Inscription extended range model.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable and plush people and cargo hauler. It featured standard leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery, along with a range of comfort features such as 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, and tri-zone climate control. 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, while the third row was 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 power-adjustable third row could be folded using a switch in the cargo area. The hands-free power liftgate worked inconsistently, and the rear window could be opened for additional storage options. An adaptive air suspension made entry and exit easier and assisted in avoiding obstacles.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row through a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. The third row was suitable for children but lacked legroom and thigh support for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior featured ample storage space, comfortable seating, and a spacious cabin with a standard laminated panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well during testing in high temperatures and humidity, providing a comfortable environment.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with advanced technology, including a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with an optional upgrade to a 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 curved 38-inch OLED screen, which housed three screens displaying driver information and infotainment. The OLED technology provided deep blacks and crisp graphics. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise worked well in most situations, it struggled with recent road construction and occasionally required driver intervention.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen interface. While intuitive, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow to respond. Apple CarPlay functionality improved performance, and the XC90 also supported Android Auto. The digital instrument panel was 12.3 inches and offered easy customization. The Advanced package included a head-up display, a 360-degree surround view camera system, and an advanced air cleaner. The XC90 came with a standard Harman Kardon Premium Sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade for audiophiles. It included USB ports for convenience and a WiFi hotspot with a complimentary trial subscription.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with a range of safety features, including front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional technologies were available, such as adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-change alert, night vision, and advanced adaptive cruise control. The Escalade ESV received a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with a three-star rating in the rollover test.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for highway driving with minimal driver intervention. The XC90 received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.