2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a rugged alternative to the CX-5, boasting a design that was both wider and longer. It featured square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a robust appearance. The CX-50 came in eight trim levels, with the Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its all-terrain tires and distinctive styling. Despite its upscale aspirations, the CX-50's interior, while well-designed, still reflected Mazda's traditional market position with standard half-leatherette seats and manually-adjustable front seats on base models.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade embodied luxury with its updated design, distinguishing itself from its GM siblings. The new front end and vertical headlights aligned it with Cadillac's EVs, while 24-inch wheels added to its imposing presence. Inside, the Escalade featured a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, enhancing its high-tech appeal. The Premium Luxury Platinum trim offered Whisper Beige upholstery and wood trim, showcasing Cadillac's commitment to luxury, despite sharing a platform with other GM SUVs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharged versions delivering up to 256 horsepower on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, providing a decent driving experience. However, the CX-50's handling was less sporty than the CX-5, and the Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise without enhancing off-road capability.

For the 2025 Cadillac Escalade, the engine lineup was simplified to a 6.2-liter V8, producing 420 horsepower, with the Escalade-V offering a supercharged version at 682 horsepower. A 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth power delivery. While rear-wheel drive was standard, four-wheel drive was optional, and the Escalade-V featured a performance-oriented all-wheel drive system. Despite its power, the Escalade's handling couldn't match luxury rivals, though its ride quality was commendable for a body-on-frame SUV.

The Mazda CX-50 provided similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly more legroom but less headroom. Cargo space was competitive, though not class-leading, with 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The available power liftgate improved access, but the cargo area lacked features to complement the Meridian Edition's rugged look.

The Cadillac Escalade, available in standard and extended ESV versions, offered ample space, especially in the ESV's third row. Cargo capacity was impressive, with the ESV providing up to 142.8 cubic feet. The Escalade's towing capacity reached 8,100 pounds, though it lacked some advanced towing features found in competitors.

The Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial, with wireless Apple CarPlay but wired Android Auto. Higher trims added features like wireless charging and a Bose audio system. The interface was straightforward but felt dated compared to rivals.

The Cadillac Escalade's tech was cutting-edge, with a 55-inch display integrating multiple functions. A 19-speaker AKG audio system was standard, with a 36-speaker upgrade available. The Escalade retained physical controls for key functions, balancing high-tech features with usability. Second-row passengers enjoyed luxury amenities, including optional screens and massage seats.

The Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with strong crash-test scores and standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included a 360-degree camera system.

The Cadillac Escalade offered comprehensive safety features, including adaptive cruise control and GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system. While crash-test ratings weren't available, the Escalade's safety tech was robust, with unique features like a vibrating Safety Alert Seat.