2022 Jeep Wrangler 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 at 76.4 inches. This additional length was primarily at the rear, enhancing cargo space and providing a more stable ride with a 134.1-inch wheelbase. The Escalade ESV's design was sleek and luxurious, with chrome styling on Luxury trims and blacked-out accents on Sport models. All versions rode on 22-inch wheels, with variations in finishes and spokes depending on the trim. The vehicle boasted standard features like LED headlights, roof rails, and power-extending assist steps, while optional packages added further luxury touches.

Inside, the Escalade ESV's interior was less impressive, particularly in lighter color schemes where the use of hard plastics was evident. The dashboard lacked the special trimmings expected in a vehicle priced near or above $90,000. Despite this, the Escalade ESV offered a range of packages to enhance both exterior and interior features, such as the Illumination and Onyx Packages. Overall, while the exterior exuded luxury, the interior left room for improvement in terms of materials and design.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a rugged and adventurous look, with options for both two-door and four-door models. Buyers could choose from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, or plug-in hybrid. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions available. The High Tide special edition, based on the Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, featured LED exterior lighting, a body-color hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop, and a Gorilla Glass windshield upgrade. The standout feature was the Xtreme Recon package, which included a 1.5-inch suspension lift, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, and 35-inch BF Goodrich T/A KO2 tires.

The Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a gasoline V6 engine with eTorque mild hybrid electrification, providing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was included. Despite its rugged capabilities, the Wrangler's interior was basic, with durable cloth upholstery and a focus on functionality. The driving experience was unique, offering an immersive and adventurous feel, but it came with compromises in terms of comfort and refinement. The Wrangler's appeal lay in its ability to provide a sense of freedom and exploration, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.

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 V8 engine provided sufficient power, though it could have benefited from more low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The Escalade ESV's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, depending on the trim level, which could impact performance when towing. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory option, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was included. The Wrangler's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg in combined driving by the EPA, but the Xtreme Recon Package modifications affected this, resulting in an average of 16.8 mpg during testing. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, with a focus on off-road capabilities and a rugged feel. However, it came with compromises in terms of comfort, noise, and handling, making it a vehicle best suited for those seeking adventure and exploration.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable and plush people and cargo hauler, offering leatherette seating surfaces as standard and leather upholstery as an option. The interior featured 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. Buyers could upgrade to 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functionality and a panoramic sunroof. The Escalade 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 hands-free power liftgate and adaptive air suspension added convenience, though the liftgate's functionality was inconsistent.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured comfortable seats with durable cloth upholstery, and the driving position was close to the steering wheel and dashboard. Visibility varied, with some areas offering excellent views while others were compromised. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry and exit difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was limited, with 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. The tailgate's heavy 35-inch wheel added weight, requiring caution when opening on hills or when parallel parked.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was equipped with advanced technology, including a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system and an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. The vehicle featured a curved 38-inch OLED screen, housing three screens for driver information and infotainment. The system was responsive, with intuitive menu layers and crisp graphics. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise worked well in most conditions, it struggled with recent road construction and occasionally required driver intervention.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Uconnect 8.4 infotainment system offered upgrades like satellite radio and a navigation system. The Wrangler High Tide included remote engine starting, satellite radio, and single-zone automatic climate control with a new air filtration system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing comfort during open-air driving.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Buyers could add features like 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 rating for rollover resistance.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, adding features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Wrangler received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating in IIHS testing. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler's ratings suggested the need for extra caution when driving.