2022 Hyundai Palisade 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 at 226.9 inches compared to the regular Escalade's 211.9 inches, with a slightly lower height of 76.4 inches. This additional length was primarily at the rear, enhancing cargo space. The wheelbase was also extended to 134.1 inches, improving stability and design proportions, giving it a more balanced appearance. The Escalade ESV boasted a luxurious exterior with chrome styling on certain trims and blacked-out accents on others, all riding on 22-inch wheels. The vehicle came with standard features like LED headlights, roof rails, and power-extending assist steps, while offering optional upgrades such as a panoramic moonroof and heated mirrors. However, the interior, despite its high price, was criticized for its use of hard plastics and lack of unique design elements.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, introduced as Hyundai's flagship SUV, replaced the Santa Fe XL and stood out with its elegant and striking design. It featured distinctive lines, a prominent grille, and sculpted wheel arches, creating a visually appealing profile. The Palisade's design included a continuous strip of glass surfaces, giving the impression of a floating rear roof. LED headlights and taillights added to its modern look. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and elegant cabin with high-quality materials and finishes. The horizontally arrayed screen and beefy center console were highlights of the interior design. The Palisade provided ample space with options for a second-row bench or captain's chairs, and a spacious third row. The fit and finish were near-luxury levels, making it a worthy flagship for Hyundai.

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 460 pound-feet of 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 sufficient power but lacked low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The vehicle's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, depending on the trim level. Fuel economy was estimated at 17 to 23 mpg combined for the traditional Escalade, with the RWD Escalade ESV averaging around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade featured a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, equipped with gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing, offered a balance of power and efficiency. The Palisade's V6 engine provided a baritone rumble and quick acceleration without turbo lag. The vehicle's weight ranged from 4,127 to 4,387 pounds, contributing to its nimble handling. The Palisade's fuel economy was estimated at 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway/22 mpg combined for FWD models and 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway/21 mpg combined for AWD models. The Palisade could tow up to 5,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

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 first- and second-row seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. The Escalade ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, while the third row was suitable for short rides. 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. The hands-free power liftgate worked inconsistently, and the rear window could be opened for additional storage options.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and versatile interior, with comfortable seating in all three rows. The third row provided easy access and cupholders, while the second-row captain's chairs were notably comfortable. The front row featured ample storage, including compartments in the center console and door panel bottle holders. Luggage space measured 18.0 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 86.4 cubic feet with both rows folded. An underfloor storage compartment added extra space. The Palisade's gear selector used a compact shift-by-wire setup, and the dual-panel sunroof improved the ambiance in the upper trim levels. The Limited and Calligraphy trims offered luxury features like rain-sensing wipers and premium Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with advanced technology, including a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. The vehicle featured wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's standout feature was its curved 38-inch OLED screen, providing crisp graphics and intuitive menu layers. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. However, Super Cruise occasionally struggled with lane changes and construction zones, requiring driver intervention.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess, with a standard display audio system on S and SEL models and a premium system on Limited and Calligraphy models. The infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Palisade offered multiple USB ports, a Qi wireless charging pad, and a 115-volt power outlet. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a head-up display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system provided remote engine start and vehicle monitoring. The digital cluster integrated with turn signals and blind-spot monitor cameras for enhanced safety.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-keep assist, and night vision. The Escalade ESV received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rating in the rollover test, indicating a higher risk of rollover collisions.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive list of safety features, including seven airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, and blind-spot collision avoidance assist. Advanced driver assistance features included forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for both FWD and AWD models.