2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade stood as a towering presence, nearly six-and-a-half feet above the ground, with a length that demanded between 18 and 19 feet of parking space. It was a motorized cargo container, equipped with three rows of leather seats and an array of computers. The Escalade ESV extended this length by an additional 15 inches, primarily stretching the wheelbase. Despite its massive size, the Escalade managed to appear athletic and trim, thanks to design elements like thin LED lights and darkened chrome bits on the Sport Platinum trim. The interior boasted a rich first-row experience with a 38-inch curved screen and luxurious wood trim, though the allure faded in the second and third rows, where cheaper GM parts were evident.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a geometric styling, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor. The spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's design was more aggressive, with a flat hood and minimal character lines, giving it a carved-from-metal appearance. The interior was a blend of luxury and utility, with a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road features. The GX offered six trim levels, with the Overtrail models focusing on off-roading capabilities. The interior space was comfortable for adults in the first two rows, though the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, especially in the Overtrail models.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade offered a standard 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, suitable for towing up to 8,200 pounds in the RWD model. However, its acceleration felt heavy, and the 10-speed automatic transmission was adequate but not thrilling. The Escalade-V variant addressed acceleration with a supercharged Corvette V8, delivering 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. An optional 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 provided 277 hp and better fuel economy at 22 mpg combined with 4WD. The Escalade's magnetic dampers and air suspension improved maneuverability, though wind noise was noticeable at highway speeds.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque was available low in the rev range, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a 10-speed automatic transmission that operated smoothly. Standard full-time 4WD and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential were included, with the Overtrail trims adding a locking rear differential. The E-KDSS suspension system improved wheel articulation and stability. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes and minimal body roll.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade excelled in interior space, offering 25 cubic feet behind the third row, 73 cubic feet behind the second row, and 121 cubic feet with both rows down. The Escalade ESV provided even more space, with 143 cubic feet total. The interior featured simple controls, a front console refrigerator, and power-retractable side steps. However, the second-row seats were not powered like the third row.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with rotary knobs for climate control and physical buttons for off-road features. The first and second rows offered ample space for adults, but the third row was tight for anyone but children. Cargo space was impressive, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet total.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a span of OLED screens across the dash, providing sharp and clear displays. A front camera offered a high-res feed with navigation overlays. Super Cruise, a $2,500 option, was the best hands-free highway driving system available, with infrared eye-tracking cameras for safety. The Escalade also included night vision with pedestrian detection and a 36-speaker AKG audio system.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect subscription service offered an intelligent voice assistant, and Remote Connect provided remote locking and diagnostics. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. The Lexus Interface was user-friendly, though some features required subscription plans after a three-year trial.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade earned four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with lower ratings for front-passenger protection and rollover resistance. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, a Safety Alert seat, and rear parking sensors. Optional features included reverse emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Super Cruise.

The 2024 Lexus GX received a significant upgrade in safety features with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. A new proactive driving assist feature was also included. While crash tests were pending, the modern GA-F architecture and advanced safety systems inspired confidence.