2021 Cadillac Escalade vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a sleek two-box design with a long hood and short front overhang, complemented by a massive trapezoidal grille and distinctive "Quad Lamp" LED headlights. The GV80's exterior was marked by its elegant lines and high-quality paint and trim, while the interior boasted a luxurious and uncluttered dashboard, real wood and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display. The GV80's design was a testament to Genesis's ability to innovate without the constraints of a long legacy.

In contrast, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade drew inspiration from its concept vehicles, particularly the Escala, while maintaining its iconic styling. The redesigned Escalade featured standard 22-inch wheels, crisp creases, and tall OLED taillights. It offered a range of trims, from the base Luxury to the opulent Premium Luxury Platinum, with prices reflecting the level of luxury and features. The Escalade's interior was a blend of high-quality materials and advanced technology, including a 36-speaker AKG Reference sound system and a 38-inch curved OLED display. The Escalade's design was a blend of tradition and modernity, appealing to those seeking a luxurious and technologically advanced SUV.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's suspension system, particularly in the 3.5T models, featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview, enhancing ride comfort. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and more powerful experience, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the GV80 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade came with a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. A 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine was also available, offering 277 hp and the same torque as the V8. The Escalade's V8 featured Dynamic Fuel Management and an automatic stop/start system for improved efficiency, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 14.8 L/100 km. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved with a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension, providing a smooth and controlled driving experience. The Escalade excelled on highways, offering a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, with a focus on ergonomics and design. The centre console featured a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row offered ample space for two adults, with power-adjustable seats and climate control. The third row, available only on 3.5T models, increased passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats for added convenience.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's cabin was significantly larger and more comfortable, thanks to a new independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. Front-seat occupants enjoyed standard heated seats, with ventilated and massaging options available. The second row featured heated captain's chairs or a bench seat, with improved leg support. The third row offered ample space for adults, a notable improvement over previous models. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row and up to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV provided even more cargo space.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable displays. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services provided a range of remote and safety features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a 38-inch curved OLED display with high pixel density and vibrant colours. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some users experienced connectivity issues. The Escalade's voice recognition and navigation systems offered advanced features, such as augmented reality navigation and directional audio cues. A 19-speaker AKG sound system was standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system. The Escalade's technology was impressive, though some user experience improvements were needed.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with 10 airbags, electronic stability control, and a suite of driver assistance features, such as blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade's safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It also offered Teen Driver technology, parking assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system. Higher trims added blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Escalade's safety systems generally performed well, though some false alarms were noted during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised hands-free driving on select highways.