2022 Mazda CX-5 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 regular Escalade's 211.9 inches, and slightly lower in 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. The vehicle's design was complemented by features like LED headlights, a panoramic moonroof, and various exterior packages, although the interior fell short of expectations with its use of hard plastics and lack of unique dashboard trimmings.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The top Signature trim featured body-color lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its upscale feel with Nappa leather upholstery and real wood trim, while new seats improved comfort and driving position. The model lineup was restructured, offering choices between the 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo variants, with the latter providing a turbocharged engine for those seeking more power. The CX-5's interior remained stylish, though the control layout and infotainment system were less intuitive, requiring some acclimation.

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 producing 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 estimated at around 18 mpg in combined driving, with RWD versions being more efficient.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The EPA rated this powertrain at 26 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo variant offered a turbocharged engine with 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, or 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet on regular gas. The Turbo model also had standard AWD and achieved 24 mpg in combined driving. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved with increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, providing a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll and enhanced grip.

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 seats, tri-zone climate control, 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 power-adjustable third row could be folded using a switch in the cargo area, though it occasionally required manual adjustment. The hands-free power liftgate worked inconsistently, and the rear window could be opened for additional storage options.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating with new furnishings that offered improved comfort and support. The driving position was sportier, and most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat. The test vehicle featured leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents enhanced passenger comfort. The control layout was less intuitive, with the Mazda Connect infotainment system lacking a touchscreen display and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was adequate, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the back seat folded.

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 vehicle was equipped with a curved 38-inch OLED screen, housing three displays for driver information and infotainment. The screen's crisp graphics and responsive touchscreen made it user-friendly. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise generally performed well, it occasionally struggled in specific conditions, requiring driver intervention.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, though it lacked touch-sensing capability and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on center console and steering wheel controls, which required acclimation. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services were standard, with a complimentary three-year trial subscription. Starting with the 2.5 S Premium trim, the CX-5 included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, which provided satisfactory audio quality. SiriusXM satellite radio was also standard from this trim level.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, and forward-collision assist. Additional technologies were available, such as adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-departure warning, blind-spot alert, and night vision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating in the rollover test.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured the i-Activsense package, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), highlighting its strong safety performance.