2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban had a long-standing reputation as an automotive institution, seamlessly blending into traffic despite its massive size. With a length of 18 feet 10 inches and a height over six feet, it was not for everyone, especially in urban areas. However, for those needing ample cargo and passenger space, it was a top choice. Available in six trims, from LS to High Country, the Suburban offered features like automatic windshield wipers and LED headlights. Higher trims boasted 22-inch alloy wheels, though some features like power running-board steps and a panoramic moonroof were optional. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious cabin with leather upholstery in most trims, but even the top-spec felt somewhat pedestrian.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, on the other hand, embodied old-school Cadillac luxury with its updated design. The new front end aligned it with Cadillac's EVs, featuring vertical headlights and taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillacs. Available in standard and long-wheelbase ESV models, the Escalade offered trims like Luxury and Sport Platinum, with the Escalade-V as a performance model. Inside, Cadillac focused on differentiating the Escalade from its GM siblings with a screen-centric design, now featuring a 55-inch display. The interior boasted real leather and curated motifs, with our test car's Whisper Beige upholstery impressively finished. Despite its shared platform, the Escalade felt distinct and luxurious.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel with 277 horsepower. The diesel engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided excellent fuel economy and towing capabilities, making it a preferred choice for many. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available on most trims. The Suburban's steering and brakes were well-suited for its size, and the air suspension handled rough roads effectively.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped the diesel option, offering only a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and the Escalade-V's supercharged V8 with 682 horsepower. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth shifts, and rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive optional. The Escalade-V featured a performance-oriented all-wheel drive system. Magnetic Ride Control and optional air suspension provided a comfortable ride, though the Escalade's handling couldn't match some luxury competitors. The brakes, while adequate, could be upgraded with a performance package for better stopping power.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 144.7 cubic feet with seats folded. This made it ideal for families needing ample storage. The 28-gallon fuel tank allowed for long road trips, especially with the diesel engine's efficiency.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, available in standard and ESV models, provided generous interior space. The ESV offered 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 142.8 cubic feet. Seating for up to eight was available, with the ESV offering more third-row legroom. Towing capacity reached 8,100 pounds, though it lacked some advanced towing features found in competitors.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering seamless access to apps like Google Maps. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, and a rear-seat entertainment system was optional. However, the 10-speaker Bose audio system lacked depth compared to competitors.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade boasted a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, with a 19-speaker AKG audio system standard and a 36-speaker version available. The interface included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with additional features like an augmented-reality head-up display. The Executive Second Row Package added luxury touches for rear passengers, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with advanced driver assistance systems standard across trims. Features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Super Cruise was available on higher trims, offering semi-autonomous driving on mapped roads.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade included standard driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Super Cruise was also available, providing hands-free driving on mapped roads. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Escalade's safety features were comprehensive, with GM's Safety Alert Seat providing additional feedback.