2022 GMC Yukon vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design heavily influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, the Escalade maintained a familiar look, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. It sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time, offering a commanding presence. The Escalade was available in various trims, starting from the Luxury model priced just over $90,000 CAD, with the Premium Luxury and Sport trims priced at $99,898 CAD. The top-tier Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims were priced at $118,398 CAD. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, came with numerous features, including a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Driver Assist Tech Package, bringing its total to $119,988 CAD.

The 2022 GMC Yukon, particularly in the Denali trim, was characterized by its extensive use of chrome, giving it a premium and commanding look. The Denali's front was dominated by a large chrome grille, flanked by C-shaped headlights. The test vehicle featured 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious cabin with standard seating for eight, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. The Denali trim boasted unique interior designs, with the test vehicle featuring a Teak/Light Shale colour combo. The AT4 trim, focused on off-road capabilities, had a distinct look with a dark grille and skid plate.

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 produced 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing robust acceleration. It featured Dynamic Fuel Management technology for improved efficiency, with a combined fuel consumption of 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The turbo-diesel engine, producing 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, offered a combined average of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The Escalade's ride quality was enhanced by 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 Yukon offered three engine options: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Denali trim came standard with the 6.2-litre V8, providing ample power and a tow rating of 3,629 kilograms. The Yukon featured an independent rear suspension for improved handling and ride comfort, with an optional air ride adaptive suspension enhancing the ride quality further. The AT4 trim offered off-road capabilities with a two-speed transfer case and a front skid plate.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade benefited from a new independent rear suspension, allowing for a lower floor and increased interior space. The cabin offered significant gains in passenger comfort and cargo capacity, with heated and ventilated front seats and a spacious third row. The standard-length Escalade provided 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more cargo volume, with up to 4,044 litres available.

The 2022 GMC Yukon, with its redesign, improved third-row legroom by over 25 centimetres, providing 886 mm of space. The increased wheelbase and length, along with an independent rear suspension, contributed to more passenger and cargo space. The Yukon offered 722 litres of cargo capacity behind the third row, with power-folding second and third-row seats available. The Denali trim featured a power-sliding centre console with additional storage space, and power-retractable assist steps for easier access.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a 38-inch curved OLED display, 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 Escalade's AR navigation system and 19-speaker AKG sound system were highlights, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system available. A full-colour head-up display was standard on most trims.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information centre and a 15-inch head-up display on higher trims. The infotainment system included Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. The Denali trim featured a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens, compatible with various media formats.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assistance. The Escalade's safety systems generally worked well, though there were a couple of false alarms during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured the Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The Yukon received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high marks for side crash protection.