2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for the model year. It was notably longer, measuring 226.9 inches compared to the Escalade's 211.9 inches, and slightly lower in height. This additional length was primarily at the rear, enhancing cargo space. The wheelbase was also extended to 134.1 inches, improving road stability and design proportions, giving it a more balanced appearance. The Escalade ESV boasted a luxurious exterior with chrome styling on various trim levels, while Sport models featured blacked-out accents. All versions rode on 22-inch wheels, with variations in finishes and spokes depending on the trim. The vehicle's grille design varied across trim levels, adding to its distinct look. Standard features included roof rails, LED headlights, and a host of other luxury touches, with additional packages available for further customization. However, the interior, while spacious, was criticized for its use of hard plastics and lack of unique design elements, especially given its high price point.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid combined design elements from other Kia models into a unique package that stood out in the lineup. It was unmistakably a crossover, with two trim levels: S and EX. The Sorento Hybrid featured LED headlights, body-color mirrors, and Satin Chrome accents, with the EX trim adding fog lamps and a panoramic sunroof. It rode on 17-inch alloy wheels and was praised for its attractive design. Inside, the Sorento Hybrid offered a well-executed interior with leatherette seat trim, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The steering wheel and gear shift knob were leather-wrapped, and dual-zone climate controls were standard. The interior was noted for its balance of hard and soft-touch surfaces, with a unique aesthetic that was both functional and appealing. However, the third-row seating was less comfortable, and cargo space was limited compared to larger SUVs.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: a 6.2-liter V8 delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six with 277 horsepower and the same torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). The V8 engine provided sufficient power but lacked low-end torque for high-speed passing. The Escalade ESV's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, affecting its performance when towing. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but the RWD version averaged around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency with its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and electric motor. It produced 177 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, suitable for light loads and family driving. The Sorento Hybrid was only available with front-wheel drive (FWD) and offered Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart drive modes. Eco mode was the default, providing seamless engine and transmission operation at lower speeds. However, the powertrain was noisy under harder acceleration. The Sorento Hybrid excelled in fuel economy, achieving 39 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 37 mpg combined, outperforming some competitors like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed for comfort and cargo capacity, offering leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Buyers could upgrade to 16-way power-adjustable seats with massage functionality. The Escalade ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, with decent space in the third row. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 126.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third row. However, the hands-free power liftgate was inconsistent, and the third-row folding mechanism could be cumbersome.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid featured a well-thought-out interior with split-level dashboard vents for precise climate control. The infotainment system and climate controls were user-friendly, with easily accessible buttons and levers. The rotary shifter required deliberate effort to engage gears, but the drive mode dial was straightforward. The Sorento's seats were comfortable, though the passenger seat lacked power adjustments. Third-row seating was less spacious, with limited legroom compared to competitors. Cargo space was adequate for everyday needs, but larger loads required folding the rear seats. A power liftgate was available on the EX trim.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with advanced technology, including a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker upgrade. It featured wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The highlight was a curved 38-inch OLED screen, providing crisp graphics and intuitive menu navigation. Cadillac's Super Cruise system offered hands-free driving on select highways, with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control. However, it occasionally struggled in certain conditions, requiring driver intervention.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering a user-friendly interface with responsive controls. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and satellite radio. USB ports were available throughout the cabin, and buyers could opt for a wireless phone charger. The infotainment system was functional and reliable, though not cutting-edge.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and advanced adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA gave the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rollover score due to its top-heavy design.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including rear occupant alert, blind-spot collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control. The EX trim added reverse park distance warning and enhanced collision avoidance. The Sorento Hybrid had not been crash-tested by the IIHS, but the similar Sorento model received a Top Safety Pick designation.