2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2021 GMC Yukon

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's commitment to offering a premium-grade vehicle that balanced ruggedness with refinement. Positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac, the Yukon provided a truck-based full-size SUV experience with a variety of trims, including the SLE, SLT, AT4, and Denali. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and unique interior stitching, offering a sophisticated and upscale cabin. The Yukon Denali Ultimate, with its Midnight Blue paint and 22-inch wheels, exuded a more upscale appearance compared to its Chevrolet counterpart, the Tahoe High Country.

In contrast, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade drew inspiration from the Escala concept, showcasing a bold design with standard 22-inch wheels and OLED taillights. The Escalade's interior was a significant upgrade, offering a luxurious experience with options like semi-aniline premium leather and a simulated suede headliner. The Premium Luxury trim, with its Shadow Metallic paint and 36-speaker AKG Reference sound system, provided an opulent driving experience. The Escalade's cabin was not only about luxury but also about practicality, with improved passenger room and cargo capacity thanks to its independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivered robust acceleration and a distinctive V8 burble, though it was not particularly fuel-efficient. The Yukon Denali's fuel consumption averaged 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop, with a slightly better 14.5 L/100 km on a shorter loop. The Yukon also featured an independent rear suspension and optional Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling. However, the 22-inch wheels and tires could make the ride less smooth over rough pavement.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine and a no-cost 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine. The V8, with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, provided impressive acceleration, while the turbo-diesel offered 277 horsepower and the same torque, with better fuel efficiency at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with its independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension. These features provided a smooth and controlled ride, making the Escalade a comfortable and capable cruiser.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from an independent rear suspension, resulting in increased passenger and cargo space. The front seats offered leather upholstery and were heated and ventilated, though they lacked a massage function. The second-row seats were heated and could slide and fold flat, while the third-row seat provided improved comfort and thigh support. The Yukon Denali offered substantial cargo capacity, with up to 3,480 litres of space in the standard model and 4,097 litres in the Denali XL.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's cabin was larger and more comfortable, thanks to its independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. Front-seat occupants enjoyed heated and ventilated seats, with massaging seats available in Platinum trim. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and offered improved leg support, while the third-row seat provided ample legroom and comfort. The Escalade's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 3,426 litres of space in the standard model and 4,044 litres in the extended-length Escalade ESV.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 14-speaker Bose audio system. The Rear Seat Media system included dual 12.6-inch touchscreen displays, though it required some effort to stream content. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch colour head-up display, a rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera angles.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a 38-inch curved OLED display with high pixel density, offering a futuristic and immersive experience. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though there were some usability issues. The Escalade's AR navigation system and 19-speaker AKG sound system were standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system providing exceptional audio quality. The Escalade also featured a full-colour head-up display and a range of advanced technology features.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came equipped with a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The Yukon's safety systems operated smoothly and effectively, providing a reassuring driving experience.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The Premium Luxury trim added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Escalade's safety systems generally worked well, though there were occasional false alarms. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised to enhance the Escalade's safety and convenience further.