2022 Lexus 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, with a slightly lower height. This extension primarily enhanced cargo space, while the increased wheelbase of 134.1 inches improved 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. Despite its upscale look, the interior fell short of expectations, with hard plastics and a lack of unique dashboard features, which was disappointing for a vehicle priced near or above $90,000.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, on the other hand, presented a bold, blacked-out exterior with minimal chrome, transforming it into a striking presence on the road. However, its design appeared dated, reminiscent of earlier models, despite updates like the signature spindle grille and LED headlights. Inside, the GX offered a high-quality cabin with smooth, refined materials, maintaining Lexus's reputation for craftsmanship. The interior was quiet, with the V8 engine's faint roar being the only notable sound. The GX was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with the Black Line Special Edition based on the Premium trim, offering a unique aesthetic but retaining the overall dated design theme.

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 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 Escalade ESV's V8 engine provided sufficient power but lacked low-end torque for high-speed passing. The vehicle's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, affecting its performance, especially when towing. Fuel economy was estimated at 17 to 23 mpg combined, with RWD versions being more efficient. During testing, the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. The GX's powertrain, while not particularly potent, offered a satisfying engine note and ample torque, contributing to a 7.8-second 0-60 mph time and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's design, with a drag coefficient of 0.35, combined with its weight and always-on 4WD, resulted in an EPA fuel economy estimate of 16 mpg combined. During testing, the GX achieved 16.8 mpg, slightly better than expected. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability, though the steering and brake pedal were less refined.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a spacious and comfortable people and cargo hauler, offering leatherette seating surfaces with available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. The ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, with the third row being less accommodating for adults. 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 inconsistent, and the rear window could open for additional storage options.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear visibility. Its design, suitable for global markets, made it easy to maneuver in various environments. The interior featured comfortable seats with NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The GX provided triple-zone automatic climate control, though rear seat access was challenging due to narrow door openings. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with a higher load floor when stowed. The GX's tailgate swung open to the side, complicating loading in tight spaces. Cargo capacity was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV stood out for its technology, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with an optional 36-speaker upgrade. It included wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's 38-inch OLED screen housed three displays for driver information and infotainment, offering unparalleled graphics quality. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise generally worked well, it occasionally struggled in specific conditions, requiring driver intervention. Despite its quirks, Super Cruise was highly valued for highway driving.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, with a CD player for nostalgia. The Lexus app and Enform connected services, including a WiFi hotspot, provided modern connectivity. The GX's stereo controls were awkwardly placed, with shallow knobs that were difficult to use. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and voice recognition technology was impressive. For 2022, Lexus made Intuitive Parking Assist standard, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras, though the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, 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 in the rollover test, indicating a higher risk of rollover collisions.

The 2022 Lexus GX, despite its age, offered standard Lexus Safety System+ features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some modern safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems. The absence of these features contributed to a more straightforward driving experience, free from intrusive interventions.