2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Volvo XC40

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 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 offered a luxurious experience, especially in the Premium Luxury trim, with features like a 36-speaker AKG sound system and leather upholstery. Despite its high price tag, the Escalade justified its premium with a refined cabin and a range of luxury options, although some interior materials, like the plastic lower dashboard, were less impressive.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge retained the classic shape of its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid grille panel and unique 19-inch alloy wheels. The absence of tailpipes and the "Recharge" badging were telltale signs of its electric nature. The XC40 was a well-crafted vehicle, with its Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and floating roof illusion adding to its appeal. Inside, the XC40 embraced Scandinavian design, offering a spacious and airy cabin despite its compact size. The harmonious dash design and quality materials positioned the XC40 Recharge as a genuine luxury SUV, reflecting Volvo's steady climb into the premium automotive segment.

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 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, with 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, promised a more efficient drive with a combined average of 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, offering a smooth and controlled experience. However, the brake pedal could have offered better modulation.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two electric motors for a total of 402 horsepower and 486 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The gasoline XC40 models, with turbo four-cylinder engines, were slower, with the T4 reaching 0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and the T5 in 6.4 seconds. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive mode, enhancing energy efficiency and driving enjoyment. Its lower centre of gravity improved handling, and the suspension setup provided a stable ride. The XC40 Recharge achieved a combined efficiency rating of 2.8 Le/100 km, with a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, and supported fast charging up to 150 kW.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more functional cabin, thanks to its new independent rear suspension and extended wheelbase. 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 adult-friendly, with significant 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 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions like a front trunk for the charging cable. The cabin featured ample storage cubbies, door pockets, and USB ports for modern conveniences. The front seats provided excellent comfort, while the rear seats were suitable for two passengers, with limited space for a third. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with 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 connectivity issues were noted. The AR navigation system was a standout feature, providing directional arrows on the camera view. A 19-speaker AKG sound system was standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system. The Escalade also featured a head-up display and a surround-view camera system, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. It included Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store, with Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth for connectivity. The system supported over-the-air updates for both infotainment and vehicle software. However, the range display showed a percentage of charge rather than remaining kilometres, which could cause range anxiety. The XC40 Recharge also offered Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane centring.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It also had a Safety Alert Seat, Teen Driver technology, and a surround-view camera system. Premium trims added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, some false alarms were noted during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. It featured collision warning and avoidance, blind-spot information, lane keep assist, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. The XC40 Recharge's top speed was electronically limited to 180 km/h. It also introduced a new sensor platform for enhanced safety features and Volvo’s Connected Safety system, sharing road condition data with other Volvo vehicles.