2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was offered in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with prices ranging from $21,275 to $24,525, including destination charges. The SEL trim, priced at $23,275, was recommended for its enhanced exterior and added safety features. The Limited trim test vehicle, painted in Ecotronic Gray, had an MSRP of $24,735. Despite limited options, the Venue's design was appealing, with a mature look in gray. Inside, the Venue featured hard plastics but maintained a stylish appearance with striped seats and white dashboard trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen were highlights, showcasing Hyundai's attention to quality and detail.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, a symbol of Cadillac luxury, featured a new front end aligning it with Cadillac EVs. The vertical headlights and 24-inch wheels added to its imposing presence. Available in standard and long-wheelbase ESV models, the Escalade offered trims like Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport, with the Escalade-V as a performance model. Inside, Cadillac focused on differentiating the Escalade from other GM SUVs, introducing a 55-inch OLED display across the dashboard. The interior offered various leather options and curated motifs, with the Premium Luxury Platinum trim showcasing Whisper Beige upholstery and wood trim, emphasizing its luxury status.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 2,612 pounds, it featured a CVT that maximized power for city and suburban driving. The Venue excelled in maneuverability and visibility but struggled on rough roads due to its suspension setup. On highways, it maintained speed but sounded strained under pressure. Lacking AWD, it relied on front-wheel drive, with 6.7 inches of ground clearance. The Venue achieved an EPA rating of 31 mpg combined, averaging 30.3 mpg in testing.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped the diesel option, retaining a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade-V boasted a supercharged V8 with 682 hp. A 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts, with RWD standard and 4WD optional. The Escalade-V featured a performance AWD system. Magnetic Ride Control was standard on most trims, but the Escalade's handling couldn't match luxury rivals. V8 power ensured quick acceleration, but braking lacked confidence without the optional Brembo package.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue's higher ground clearance facilitated easy entry and exit. Front seats offered manual adjustments and heated cushions, while the back seat was cramped for three. Rear passengers had USB ports but limited storage and no air vents. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet, expanding to 31.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, available in two lengths, offered ample space. The ESV model increased cargo and third-row legroom. Seating for up to eight was available, with first-row legroom best in class. Cargo capacity was 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 121 cubic feet. ESV models offered even more space. Towing capacity was 8,100 pounds, slightly less than some competitors.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue featured an 8-inch touchscreen with modern graphics and logical menus. Standard tech included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim added navigation and a wireless charger, though wired connections were required for smartphone integration. The infotainment system was sophisticated, with impressive voice recognition.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade combined traditional engineering with a futuristic interface. A 55-inch display spanned the dashboard, with a 19-speaker audio system standard. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were retained. The Escalade offered extensive tech, including a head-up display and night vision. The Executive Second Row Package added luxury features like massage seats and additional screens.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue included Hyundai SmartSense with features like forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist. The Venue SEL added blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS rated it Good in three crash tests, while the NHTSA gave it four stars overall.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade featured adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and Super Cruise for hands-free driving. The Safety Alert Seat provided warnings. Current crash-test ratings were unavailable.