2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

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, it retained a familiar aesthetic, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels, a first for the model, and offered a range of trims starting from the Luxury model priced just over $90,000 CAD. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims were priced at $99,898 CAD, with the top-tier Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims reaching $118,398 CAD. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, included features like a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Driver Assist Tech Package, culminating in a price of $119,988 CAD. The interior, while luxurious, had some hard plastic elements that seemed out of place given the price point.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its second generation into its 14th year, maintaining a mature design. Its exterior was characterized by a modest grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia measured 1,956 mm in height, 2,030 mm in width, and 5,210 mm in length, with a wheelbase of 3,099 mm. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and tight seams. The Nightshade Special Edition, based on the Limited model, demonstrated Toyota's efforts to keep the Sequoia relevant. However, the interior design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen.

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 robust acceleration. It featured Dynamic Fuel Management technology, allowing it to operate on as few as two cylinders to improve fuel efficiency. The turbo-diesel engine, while producing 277 horsepower, matched the V8's torque and offered better fuel economy at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined. 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 driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. It was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck-based construction contributed to a payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight of approximately 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a stable and smooth ride, with a 12.5-metre turning circle and excellent sightlines for daily driving. Its off-road capabilities were enhanced by a four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension and, in the TRD Pro model, Fox shocks.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's redesigned interior offered significant improvements in passenger comfort and cargo capacity. The new independent rear suspension allowed for a lower floor, increasing interior volume. Front seats featured standard heated and available ventilated and massaging options. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and slid for better leg support, while the third-row seat provided ample legroom and comfort. 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, with up to 4,044 litres of cargo volume.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows. It featured three-zone climate control and a standard power moonroof. Heated front seats were standard, with heated second-row seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia's cargo area included a 12-volt outlet and offered 535 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 3,401 litres with all seats folded. The centre console and door pockets provided ample storage for personal items.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a cutting-edge 38-inch curved OLED display for instrumentation and infotainment, offering high pixel density and vibrant colours. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some user experience improvements were needed. The AR navigation system and 19-speaker AKG sound system were standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system available. A full-colour head-up display was standard on most trims, providing essential driving information.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology lagged behind competitors, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims added navigation and a JBL premium audio system. While the Sequoia's exterior lighting was fully LED, its powertrain technology remained outdated compared to modern standards.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It also offered Teen Driver technology, a surround-view camera system, and a rear-seat reminder. Premium trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The optional Driver Assist Tech Package included adaptive cruise control and higher-speed emergency braking. However, there were instances of false alarms during testing.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. It also featured a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and Toyota's STAR safety system, which included stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia's safety features were comprehensive, though crash-test ratings were not available.