2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX presented a refined and modern exterior, with a design that was both sporty and assertive. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase and wider body, enhancing its elegant proportions. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its contemporary look. Inside, the MDX offered a spacious cabin with a layered dashboard that emphasized width and used authentic materials like natural wood and genuine leather. The unique gear selection and touchpad controls added a touch of sophistication, while the 12.3-inch infotainment screen was strategically placed for safety and convenience.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a commanding presence on the road, with its towering height and substantial length. Despite its size, the Escalade managed to look athletic, thanks to design elements like thin LED lights and darkened chrome accents. The interior was luxurious, with a 38-inch curved screen array and high-quality wood trim. However, some components, like the heated seat controls and shifter, were shared with less expensive GM models, detracting from the overall luxury feel. The Escalade's spaciousness was unmatched, comfortably accommodating six adults with ample headroom and legroom.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided excellent cornering and control, with torque vectoring enhancing the driving experience. The MDX's suspension upgrades, including a double-wishbone front setup, improved ride quality and handling. The vehicle's increased stiffness and rigidity contributed to a solid ride feel, while the Integrated Dynamics System offered five drive modes for tailored performance.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, suitable for towing but less impressive in acceleration. The 10-speed automatic transmission was responsive, though the powertrain felt heavy in Sport mode. The Escalade-V variant offered a supercharged V8 with 682 hp, providing a significant performance boost. The optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 was praised for its smooth torque delivery and improved fuel economy. The Escalade's 4WD system was basic, but its magnetic ride control dampers and air suspension enhanced maneuverability and ride comfort.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled as a versatile three-row SUV, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the sliding seats allowed for adjustable legroom. The MDX provided ample cargo space, with up to 2,690 litres available with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate featured convenient functions like Hands-Free Access and customizable opening height, while the interior lighting offered 27 themes for a personalized cabin atmosphere.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted an exceptionally spacious interior, with 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row and up to 3,426 litres with both rows down. The independent rear suspension allowed for generous passenger space, even in the third row. The Escalade's controls were intuitive, with a smart touchscreen interface and easy-to-use climate controls. Optional features like a front console refrigerator and power-retractable side steps added convenience, while the air suspension facilitated loading and unloading. However, the second-row seats lacked power adjustment, unlike the third row.

The 2022 Acura MDX offered a range of tech features, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, with built-in Amazon Alexa and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The MDX also featured a head-up display, CabinTalk interior PA system, and a WiFi hotspot, with over-the-air software updates available.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade impressed with its OLED screen array, providing sharp visuals and augmented reality navigation. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving system, was a standout feature, offering advanced driver assistance with eye-tracking cameras. The Escalade also included a 36-speaker AKG audio system, night vision with pedestrian detection, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Wireless smartphone connectivity and a head-up display were standard, enhancing the vehicle's tech offerings.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in all categories. Its advanced safety structure and high-strength steel construction contributed to collision protection. The MDX featured a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade earned four stars from the NHTSA, with lower ratings for front-passenger protection and rollover resistance. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera. Optional features like reverse emergency braking and Night Vision added to the Escalade's safety offerings, though some systems were prone to false activations.