2022 GMC Terrain vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design heavily influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front styling. However, from the side and rear, it retained a familiar look with crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time, offering a commanding presence. Pricing started at just over $90,000 Canadian for the base Luxury trim, with higher trims like the Premium Luxury and Sport priced at $99,898. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, came with numerous features, including a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Performance Upgrade Package, bringing its price to $119,988. Despite its high price, the Escalade justified its premium with superior interior quality and luxury features compared to its platform mates, the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain received updates to its front styling, wheel designs, and interior trim. The new AT4 trim added a bolder grille, black alloy wheels, and a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test vehicle, equipped with the AT4 package, featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint and a black leather interior. It included the Tech Package, Infotainment Package II, and GMC Pro Safety Plus Package, bringing its MSRP to $44,757. While the Terrain offered more affordable SLE and SLT trims, the AT4 trim aimed to provide a rugged look and feel. However, the Terrain's entry-level status was evident in its material quality and execution, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine and a 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 strong acceleration and a satisfying sound. It featured Dynamic Fuel Management technology for improved efficiency, achieving 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The turbo-diesel, with 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, offered better fuel economy at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled ride.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The engine's power delivery required learning to ride the torque band for satisfaction, with a nine-speed automatic transmission keeping it in the optimal range. The Terrain's towing capacity was limited to 680 kilograms, a reduction from the previous 2.0-litre engine's capability. The AT4 trim offered FWD and AWD modes, with an Off-Road mode and Hill Descent Control. The Terrain's ride was smooth on highways and city streets, but its off-road capabilities were limited, with the front end scraping on uneven terrain. The sport-terrain tires provided limited grip, and the overall driving experience was less engaging.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more useful cabin, thanks to its independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. Front-seat occupants enjoyed standard heated seats, with ventilated and massaging seats available in higher trims. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and offered improved leg support, while the third-row seat provided ample legroom and comfort for adults. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row, expandable to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more cargo space.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The AT4 trim featured perforated leather upholstery with caramel-colour contrast stitching. The back seat offered generous legroom and support, with a rear USB charging port. Cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row, expandable to 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain also included a large storage bin under the trunk floor and the ability to fold the front passenger seat for longer items.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a cutting-edge OLED display spanning 38 inches, offering high pixel density and vibrant colours. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some user experience improvements were needed. The AR navigation system provided turn-by-turn directions with superimposed arrows, and a 19-speaker AKG sound system was standard. The optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system delivered exceptional audio quality. A full-colour head-up display was standard on most trims, providing essential information.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was highly effective, accurately responding to various prompts. The Tech Package included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The Terrain also featured a Tire Fill Alert system and remote engine start.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Safety Alert Seat provided tactile feedback for potential hazards. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The optional Driver Assist Tech Package included adaptive cruise control and rear emergency braking. The Escalade's size and weight contributed to its safety, but some false alarms occurred during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came with the GMC Pro Safety Package, featuring forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the 2022 Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.