2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design evolution influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, the Escalade maintained its traditional styling, featuring standard 22-inch wheels, sharp creases along its body, and vertical OLED taillights. The Escalade was available in various trims, starting from the Luxury model priced just over $90,000 CAD, with options for more luxurious trims like the Premium Luxury and Sport, both priced at $99,898 CAD. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, came equipped with numerous features, including a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Driver Assist Tech Package, bringing its total cost to $119,988 CAD. Despite its high price, the Escalade was praised for its superior interior quality compared to its platform-sharing siblings, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon.

In contrast, the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was designed as an electric vehicle from the ground up, offering a distinct look compared to Volkswagen's gasoline models. It featured a streamlined profile with wheels pushed to the corners, differentiating it from the Tiguan and Atlas. The ID.4 was based on VW's MEB platform and was introduced to the North American market as a crossover, a strategic move given the region's preference for such vehicles. While its styling didn't scream SUV, it was in line with other EV crossovers like the Chevy Bolt EUV and Hyundai Kona Electric. Inside, the ID.4 combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a tech-focused aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. The base ID.4 Pro came with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and cloth seats, with leatherette available in the Statement Package.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine and an optional 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine. The V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering robust acceleration. It featured technologies like Dynamic Fuel Management and an automatic stop/start system to enhance fuel efficiency, achieving a combined consumption of 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The turbo-diesel, while less powerful at 277 horsepower, matched the V8's torque and offered better fuel economy at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The Escalade's ride quality was significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience. However, the brake pedal could have offered better modulation.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 was available in two powertrain configurations. The base RWD version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An AWD version added a second motor for a total of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The RWD setup provided balanced handling, while the AWD offered more power. The ID.4 prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a smooth ride and noticeable body roll in corners. Unlike many EVs, the ID.4 did not offer aggressive regenerative braking for one-pedal driving, instead relying on friction brakes to mimic a traditional driving experience. This decision aimed to ease the transition for drivers accustomed to gasoline vehicles.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more functional cabin, thanks to its new independent rear suspension and extended wheelbase. This design allowed for a lower floor, enhancing passenger comfort and cargo capacity. Front-seat occupants enjoyed standard heated seats, with ventilated and massaging options available in higher trims. The second-row offered heated captain's chairs or a bench seat, with improved leg support. The third-row saw significant improvements, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 722 litres behind the third row, expandable to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more room, with up to 4,044 litres of cargo volume.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, while feeling more like a crossover compared to other EVs, offered competitive interior space. It provided more front and rear headroom than many EV rivals, though legroom was average. Cargo space was ample, with 858 litres available with the rear seats up and 1,818 litres with them folded. Unlike some EVs, the ID.4 did not have a front trunk, prioritizing cabin space instead. The interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility, though rear visibility was hindered by thick pillars. The ID.4 featured a unique gear selector and a narrow centre console, offering limited storage space. Standard heated seats and a steering wheel helped maintain cabin warmth efficiently.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with a cutting-edge 38-inch curved OLED display, offering high pixel density and vibrant colours. The system included a 14.2-inch instrumentation screen with multiple display options, though switching between them required navigating through menus. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but some connectivity issues were noted. The Escalade's voice recognition system struggled with certain commands, and climate control adjustments couldn't be made via voice. Despite these challenges, the technology was impressive, with features like AR navigation and a 19-speaker AKG sound system. An optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system provided exceptional audio quality.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 featured a standard 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an optional 12-inch screen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 5.3-inch display served as the instrument cluster. Haptic touchpads replaced traditional controls, but they lacked tactile feedback, making them challenging to use while driving. The ID.4's voice-control system allowed for natural language commands, though it was slow to respond. The ID.Light feature added a futuristic touch, communicating information through light signals. Despite some gimmicky features, the infotainment system was well-designed, with intuitive menus and smart graphics.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. A Safety Alert Seat provided tactile feedback for potential hazards. Additional safety systems included Teen Driver technology, parking assist sensors, and a surround-view camera. Premium trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The optional Driver Assist Tech Package enhanced safety with adaptive cruise control and emergency braking. However, the system experienced a couple of false alarms during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA for RWD models. It offered a range of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. New features like Travel Assist and Emergency Assist provided automated lane centring and emergency stopping capabilities. Travel Assist performed well, smoothly following curves and adjusting speed. The ID.4's safety features were comparable to other systems, offering a reassuring level of protection.