2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

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 a familiar aesthetic, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. It was the first time the Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels, adding to its imposing presence. The interior of the Escalade was a blend of luxury and practicality, with various trims offering different levels of opulence. The Premium Luxury trim, for instance, boasted features like a 36-speaker AKG sound system and power-retractable side steps, though some interior materials, like the plastic lower dashboard, were less impressive given the vehicle's price point.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, emphasized functionality over form. Its rugged exterior, with protective cladding and a matte-black hood decal, gave it a distinctive look, though not universally appealing. Inside, the Forester focused on practicality, with water-repellant StarTex upholstery and a straightforward cabin layout. The interior combined hard plastics and soft surfaces, prioritizing durability and ease of use. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens could be cumbersome. Overall, the Forester's design was more about utility, appealing to those who valued substance over style.

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, with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was the preferred choice for its performance and sound. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and technologies like Dynamic Fuel Management to enhance efficiency, achieving 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. 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, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful, it was adequate for most driving situations. The Forester's CVT and AWD system, particularly in the Wilderness trim, enhanced its off-road capabilities, doubling its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. Fuel consumption was efficient at 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres. The Forester's suspension was re-tuned for better ride and handling, with the Wilderness trim offering increased ground clearance and improved off-road performance. Despite its lack of power, the Forester excelled in various driving environments, from city streets to rugged trails.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's interior was significantly enhanced by its new independent rear suspension, which allowed for a lower floor and increased interior space. 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 seat was now more accommodating for adults, thanks to increased legroom. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more space, making it ideal for those needing maximum cargo capacity.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to its tall seating position. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it suitable for outdoor adventures. The Forester's roof rails were upgraded to support a three-person roof tent, enhancing its versatility. Interior comfort was high, with ample space for passengers and practical storage solutions. Cargo space was generous, with 818 litres available, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded. The Forester's design catered to those seeking a practical and versatile SUV for everyday use and outdoor activities.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with a cutting-edge 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 AR navigation system was a standout feature, providing real-time directional guidance. A 19-speaker AKG sound system was standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system available. The Escalade also featured a full-colour head-up display and a range of advanced technology options, making it a leader in automotive tech.

The 2022 Subaru Forester offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with available navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. While the voice recognition system had room for improvement, the Forester's technology package was comprehensive and user-friendly, catering to tech-savvy drivers.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Safety Alert Seat provided tactile feedback to the driver, while Teen Driver technology and a rear-seat reminder added extra layers of safety. Premium trims offered additional features like blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. However, there were instances of false alarms during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways, enhancing the Escalade's safety credentials.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also offered a rear-seat reminder, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The DriverFocus system, available on higher trims, monitored for drowsiness and distraction. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with a strong safety record expected to continue.