2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design evolution influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, the Escalade maintained a familiar aesthetic, featuring standard 22-inch wheels, sharp creases along its sides, and tall OLED taillights. The base model was priced at $76,195, with higher trims like the Premium Luxury and Sport offering more features and luxury, reaching up to $99,995 for the Platinum trim. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury model, included numerous upgrades, bringing its price to $102,310. Despite some criticisms regarding interior materials, the Escalade was praised for its luxurious cabin, especially in higher trims with premium leather and wood options.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second generation into its 14th year, maintaining a mature design. Its exterior was characterized by a modest grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia's dimensions included a height of 77 inches, a width of 79.9 inches, and a length of 205.1 inches, with a 122-inch wheelbase. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition added modern touches with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its appeal. However, the interior design felt dated compared to newer SUVs, with smaller infotainment screens and a more traditional dashboard layout.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine and an optional 3.0-liter turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine. The V8 delivered 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing robust acceleration. The V8 featured technologies like direct fuel injection and Dynamic Fuel Management, allowing it to operate on fewer cylinders to improve fuel economy. The test vehicle averaged 15.9 mpg on a 140-mile loop, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 16 mpg combined. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 adaptive dampers, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, offering a smooth and controlled driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck-based construction contributed to a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. However, its weight and older powertrain resulted in lower fuel economy ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway/15 mpg combined for RWD models. Despite its heft, the Sequoia provided a stable and smooth ride, with competent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and independent suspension.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade benefited from a new independent rear suspension, allowing for a lower floor and increased interior space. Front-seat occupants enjoyed standard heated seats, with ventilated and massaging options available in higher trims. The second-row offered heated captain's chairs or a bench seat, with improved leg support. The third-row seat was more accommodating for adults, thanks to the lower floor and longer wheelbase. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 109.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more space, with up to 126.6 cubic feet of cargo volume.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows. Three-zone climate control and a standard power moonroof enhanced the cabin experience. The Sequoia's cargo area featured an auxiliary 12-volt outlet and offered 18.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row. Folding the third row expanded cargo capacity to 66.6 cubic feet, while folding both the second and third rows provided 120.1 cubic feet of space. The Sequoia's interior included ample storage options, with a large center console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with advanced technology, including a 38-inch curved OLED display for instrumentation and infotainment. The system offered high pixel density and a wide color range, though some user experience improvements were needed. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but voice recognition had limitations. The Escalade featured AR navigation, a 19-speaker AKG sound system, and an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system. A head-up display was standard on most trims, providing essential information to the driver.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was less advanced, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Limited trim added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, with an optional premium audio package. While the Sequoia's technology lagged behind competitors, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Safety Alert Seat provided haptic feedback to the driver, while Teen Driver technology and a surround-view camera system enhanced safety. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The optional Driver Assist Tech Package included advanced features like adaptive cruise control and rear emergency braking. However, the test vehicle experienced a couple of false alarms during testing.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert. The STAR safety system provided stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia featured a full complement of airbags, LATCH connectors, and crumple zones for enhanced safety. While crash-test ratings were not available, the Sequoia's safety features aimed to prevent accidents and protect occupants.