2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for the 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. 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 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 optional packages that added to its luxury appeal. However, the interior was less impressive, with hard plastics and a lack of unique design elements, especially in lighter color schemes.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, available in three variants, presented a luxurious appearance with lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal and design elements like a short front overhang and long hood contributed to a sleek, athletic look. Inside, the CX-90 offered an upscale feel with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear. However, some materials reflected its competitive pricing. The interior design had ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row SUVs, offering a compelling blend of style and luxury.

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 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 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. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA for the ESV, but the traditional Escalade achieved an estimated 17 to 23 mpg combined. During testing, the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in the 3.3 Turbo models. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an increase to 340 hp using premium gas. Power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The EPA rated both the 3.3 Turbo and 3.3 Turbo S at 25 mpg combined, though testing showed 21.3 mpg in mountainous conditions. The plug-in hybrid variant offered 25 miles of electric range and the same 25 mpg combined after that. While the CX-90 excelled in ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. Noise and impact harshness were also issues, detracting from the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed as a comfortable and plush people and cargo hauler. It featured standard leatherette seating surfaces, with leather upholstery available. The interior included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone climate control. Buyers could upgrade to 16-way power-adjustable front seats with massage functionality and a panoramic sunroof. The Escalade ESV offered ample legroom in the first two rows, with the third row 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 2025 Mazda CX-90, in 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the interior quickly, and front-seat ventilation was less effective. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with height-adjustable armrests. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults on longer trips. The CX-90's interior storage was limited, with a smartphone charging tray, a shallow bin, and a sizable glove compartment. Cargo space measured 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 40 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 74.2 cubic feet with the second row flattened, which was small for the segment.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV stood out for its technology, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. It included wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's 38-inch curved OLED screen housed three displays for driver information and infotainment. The screen's crisp graphics and responsive touchscreen were highlights. Cadillac's Super Cruise advanced driving assist system was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. While Super Cruise generally worked well, it struggled in certain conditions, such as construction zones and heavy traffic. Despite occasional failures, Super Cruise was a valuable feature for highway driving.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a knob and buttons for operation. Mazda's voice recognition system was inconsistent, and the automaker planned to introduce a new Google Built-in infotainment system in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and Mazda's Active Driving Display, a head-up display with helpful data. The CX-90's blind-spot monitoring system provided visual alerts, enhancing safety.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, lane-departure warning, 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, indicating a higher risk of rollover collisions.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and five-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests, with a four-star rollover resistance rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though some features, like speed reduction, were less refined.