2022 Acura RDX 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 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 finishes varying by trim. The vehicle's exterior was further enhanced by features like LED headlights, a power panoramic moonroof, and illuminating door handles, contributing to its upscale look.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX underwent subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille surround and bumper styling. The RDX also introduced new wheel designs and paint colors, including the exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl for the PMC Edition. The RDX lineup included various packages, with starting prices ranging from $42,300 to $53,300. The A-Spec Advance package, tested at $53,645, offered high-quality interior materials and a quieter cabin. Despite some design quirks, such as the vertical air inlets, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors, emphasizing a sporty driving position and a dramatic dashboard layout.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine options: a 6.2-liter V8 producing 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 fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA, but it averaged around 18 mpg during testing.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The RDX offered front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, with the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system available on higher trims. The SH-AWD system provided excellent torque-vectoring capabilities, enhancing the RDX's driving dynamics. The RDX's fuel economy was rated at 23 mpg, but during testing, it averaged 20.6 mpg. The RDX's revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) and adaptive-damping suspension contributed to a smoother and more responsive ride.

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 ESV provided ample legroom in the first two rows, while the third row was 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 Escalade ESV also featured an adaptive air suspension for easier entry and exit.

The 2022 Acura RDX, though a compact SUV, offered ample room for four adults and their luggage. The interior featured a sporty driving position and a unique control layout, including the True Touchpad Interface infotainment system. The RDX's front seats were comfortable and supportive, while the back seat was less so, prioritizing a flat cargo load floor. The RDX provided 29.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A standard power liftgate with available hands-free operation added convenience.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV stood out with its advanced technology, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system and an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. The Escalade ESV boasted a curved 38-inch OLED screen, providing crisp graphics and intuitive menu navigation. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on select highways. While Super Cruise generally performed well, it occasionally struggled in certain conditions, requiring driver intervention.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which paired a 10.2-inch display screen with a touchpad controller. While the TTI required some acclimation, the RDX also offered Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX's premium sound systems included a nine-speaker setup, a 12-speaker ELS Studio system, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system. The RDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display on higher trims.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came equipped with standard safety features such as front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, and lane-keep assist. Additional technologies included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and advanced adaptive cruise control. The Escalade ESV received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rating in the rollover test.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety and included a rear seatbelt reminder system. The standard AcuraWatch suite added pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with four-star frontal-impact and rollover resistance ratings.