2022 Buick Encore GX vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for that 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 and providing a more stable ride due to its extended wheelbase of 134.1 inches. The Escalade ESV boasted a luxurious appearance 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 spoke designs depending on the trim. The vehicle's exterior was further enhanced by features like LED headlights, a power panoramic moonroof, and optional packages that added to its luxury appeal. However, the interior, despite its spaciousness, was criticized for its use of hard plastics and lack of unique design elements, which detracted from its overall poshness.

In contrast, the 2022 Buick Encore GX was a compact SUV that shared a strong family resemblance with the standard Encore. It featured a slightly longer wheelbase and additional length, giving it a more balanced look. The Encore GX was particularly appealing when equipped with the optional ST appearance package, which added sporty elements like custom grilles and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The interior was attractive, with soft-touch materials and leather seats available on higher trims. The cabin was user-friendly, with controls that were easy to operate and a comfortable driving position. While rear-seat space was limited, the cargo area was versatile, offering up to 50.2 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. The Encore GX was designed to be practical and easy to live with, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a compact yet functional SUV.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: a standard 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine delivering 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 Escalade ESV's V8 engine provided ample power, though it could have benefited from more low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The vehicle's weight, ranging from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, contributed to its performance challenges, especially when towing. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA for the ESV, but it averaged around 18 mpg during testing, which was better than expected.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX was equipped with two turbocharged three-cylinder engine options: a 1.2-liter engine producing 137 horsepower and a 1.3-liter engine delivering 155 horsepower. The smaller engine was standard on the Preferred and Select trims, while the larger engine was standard on the top Essence trim. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option. FWD models used a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while AWD models featured a nine-speed automatic. The 1.3-liter turbo engine and CVT combination provided adequate power, though it was somewhat noisy. The Encore GX's ride was less refined than expected, with noticeable noise, vibration, and harshness levels. Despite these drawbacks, the Encore GX's powertrain was capable, and the vehicle handled everyday driving tasks with ease.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed to be a luxurious people and cargo hauler, offering leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated seats in the first and second rows, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. The ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, while the third row was suitable for occasional adult use. Cargo space was generous, 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. The power-adjustable third row could be folded using a switch in the cargo area, though it sometimes required manual adjustment. The hands-free power liftgate was a convenient feature, though it worked inconsistently. The Escalade ESV also offered upscale features like a center console cooler and adaptive air suspension for easier entry and exit.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX, despite its compact size, provided a comfortable and user-friendly experience. Ingress and egress were easy, with seat hip points positioned for convenience. The controls were clearly marked and easy to operate, and the elevated ride height improved visibility. Front-seat headroom and legroom were adequate, though rear-seat knee room was limited. The cargo area offered 23.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 50.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Encore GX featured a two-level cargo floor for added versatility, and the optional hands-free power liftgate was adjustable for height. Overall, the Encore GX was designed to be practical and easy to live with, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a compact yet functional SUV.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with advanced technology, including a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional upgrade to a 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. The vehicle featured a curved 38-inch OLED screen, housing three displays for driver information and infotainment. The OLED technology provided deep blacks and crisp graphics, enhancing the cabin's ambiance. The Escalade ESV also offered wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. Cadillac's Super Cruise advanced driving assist system was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise generally worked well, it occasionally struggled in certain conditions, such as construction zones or sudden changes in lighting. Despite these challenges, Super Cruise was a valuable feature for highway driving.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX offered a decent array of technology features for its price. It came with a standard eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The Encore GX also offered a navigation system on higher trims, along with built-in Amazon Alexa capability. The vehicle's driver-assistance features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Advanced Technology package added features like HD surround vision, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. The Encore GX's infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive app layouts and efficient voice recognition. Overall, the Encore GX provided a good balance of technology and convenience features for its segment.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with a range of safety features, including front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Additional technologies were available, such as adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and advanced adaptive cruise control. The Escalade ESV received a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), with a three-star rating for rollover resistance due to its top-heavy design.

The 2022 Buick Encore GX also offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Teen Driver technology and a tire-fill alert system. The Encore GX performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning five stars for overall crash protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Encore GX "Good" ratings in all crash tests, with "Superior" ratings for front crash prevention. However, the vehicle's headlights received mixed ratings, with the top Essence trim's LED headlights rated as "Acceptable" and the lower trims' halogen headlights rated as "Marginal."