2021 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's "professional grade" ethos, offering a blend of ruggedness and refinement that positioned it between Chevrolet and Cadillac in the General Motors lineup. The redesigned Yukon, available in various trims including the off-road-oriented AT4 and the upscale Denali, was a truck-based full-size SUV that appealed to buyers seeking substance over image. The Denali trim, in particular, stood out with its exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and a panoramic sunroof, creating an upscale cabin experience. Despite its premium features, the Yukon Denali maintained a rugged aesthetic, with a bold grille and chrome accents that set it apart from its Chevrolet counterparts.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its unapologetically large size and distinctive styling elements, such as its massive grille and vertical running lights. The Escalade's design emphasized its bulk, with 22-inch wheels that seemed small against its vast sheet metal. The SUV offered different trim pieces for "sport" and "luxury" models, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences. Inside, the Escalade boasted a luxurious interior with leather upholstery, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof, although it lacked a cohesive design theme. Despite its luxury aspirations, the Escalade's ride quality was less refined than expected, with a body-on-frame construction that couldn't match the comfort of unibody SUVs.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivered robust acceleration and a satisfying V8 burble, though it was not particularly fuel-efficient. The Yukon Denali's Active Response 4WD system, with its electronic limited-slip differential and Autotrac two-speed transfer case, enhanced cornering performance and traction. However, the ride quality was affected by the 22-inch wheels, which transmitted pavement irregularities despite the advanced suspension system. The Yukon Denali's towing capacity was 3,629 kilograms, slightly less than its predecessor and competitors like the Ford Expedition.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain choices: a standard 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 and an optional 277-horsepower 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine. Both engines were mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The diesel engine, despite its lower horsepower, provided smooth power delivery and a low torque peak, making it effective for everyday driving. The Escalade's towing capacity was slightly higher with the gasoline engine, at 3,629 kilograms, but still fell short of the Lincoln Navigator. The Escalade's ride quality was less composed than expected, with its body-on-frame construction and 22-inch wheels contributing to an unsettled ride.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly improving passenger and cargo space. The front seats, while equipped with leather upholstery and heating/ventilation, lacked a massage function and could feel hard over long drives. The second-row seats offered improved comfort and cargo room, with a power release function for easier access to the third row. The third-row seat provided adequate thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres available with all seats folded, rivaling minivan capacities.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade shared its platform with other GM full-size SUVs, resulting in a spacious cabin with the most first-row and third-row legroom among luxury SUVs. The second-row offered captain's chairs or a power-folding bench seat option. The Escalade excelled in cargo space, with up to 3,426 litres available with all rear seats folded. However, the interior had some functionality issues, such as limited storage space in the centre console. The front seats, while offering massage and lumbar support, felt similar to those in other GM SUVs.

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, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers, though it required some setup for streaming content. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch head-up display, a rear camera mirror, and multiple surround-view camera angles, enhancing maneuverability and safety.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade boasted a 38-inch curved OLED display, comprising three screens for a comprehensive infotainment experience. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a well-integrated design that blended with the dashboard. The Escalade's 360-degree camera system provided excellent resolution, and the vehicle offered advanced features like night vision and augmented-reality navigation. However, the infotainment system's radio station carousel and rotary controller were less intuitive, and the AKG Studio sound system was challenging to tune.

The 2021 GMC Yukon came equipped with a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims added features like blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Yukon's ADAS operated smoothly, enhancing safety without being intrusive. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial curb weight provided a sense of security.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered standard driver-assistance features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims included blind-spot monitoring and Super Cruise, a sophisticated hands-free driving system. Super Cruise impressed with its smooth operation, though it required pre-mapped highways and driver attention. Safety ratings for the Escalade were not published, leaving its crash protection capabilities uncertain.