2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its imposing presence. It wasn't just another large SUV; it embraced its size with a massive grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillac tailfins. The front end, with its tall hood and locomotive-like vertical running lights, set it apart from other GM full-size SUVs. Despite its 22-inch wheels, they appeared small against the vast sheet metal. The Escalade offered distinct trim options for "sport" and "luxury" models, with the former featuring darkened trim and a mesh grille. Built on a body-on-frame architecture shared with other GM SUVs and trucks, the Escalade's interior boasted luxury features like leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, though it lacked a cohesive design theme. While the materials were generally upscale, some cheap-looking plastic bits detracted from the overall luxury feel.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, its design introduced some softness with a character line that swooped over the rear wheel arch, adding unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride and Jeep Grand Cherokee. Inside, the Highlander's asymmetrical dash featured a metallic styling element that broke up monotony and provided storage space. The infotainment touchscreen was positioned high for easy visibility. The Bronze Edition test vehicle had light grey fabric seat upholstery with an odd triangle motif, which seemed more suited for a paper towel. The Softex synthetic leather substitute felt more like vinyl, and genuine leather was only available on higher trims. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was particularly uncomfortable with unyielding armrests.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain choices, both shared with other GM SUVs and trucks. The standard 6.2-liter gasoline V8 produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engine delivered 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or optional four-wheel-drive (4WD) drivetrains. The diesel engine, despite its lower horsepower, provided smooth power delivery and a lower torque peak, making it effective for initial acceleration. However, the Escalade's ride was unsettled, with vibrations from pavement imperfections affecting cabin comfort. The gasoline engine had a maximum towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, slightly less than the Lincoln Navigator's 8,700 pounds. The Escalade lacked off-road capability compared to its GM cousins, making it less suitable for rugged adventures.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It featured standard front-wheel drive (FWD) with an optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system using a supplemental electric motor for the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in an uninspired engine drone, especially when climbing hills. Braking was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride, with the suspension effectively smoothing over road imperfections. While not sporty, it provided adequate handling for a family vehicle, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade shared its body shell and chassis with other GM full-size SUVs, offering a cavernous cabin. The standard Escalade measured 211.9 inches long, while the extended ESV version was 227 inches. It provided the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs, though the Lincoln Navigator offered more second-row headroom. The Escalade featured standard second-row captain’s chairs and a power split-folding third-row bench seat, with an optional power-folding second-row bench seat. It excelled in cargo space, offering 25.5 cubic feet with all seats in place, 63.0 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded, and 109.1 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. However, the raised center console limited storage space, and the front seats, while adjustable, felt similar to those in other GM SUVs. Cadillac included dedicated buttons for seat heating and ventilation, enhancing comfort.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned and adjustable for various driver heights, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. It offered ample storage, including a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a small shelf in front of the passenger, and a large center armrest bin. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs for added versatility. A second-row bench was available as a no-cost option, increasing passenger capacity to eight. The third row was less accommodating, with limited headroom and legroom, making it suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 16 cubic feet, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded and 84.3 cubic feet with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured an elaborate 38-inch curved OLED display, comprising three screens: a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 16.9-inch touchscreen, and a 7.2-inch screen for trip-computer functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity were standard. The display seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, with icons arranged for functionality. Physical toggles for climate control and other functions were retained. However, the carousel format for changing radio stations was awkward, and the rotary controller felt like an afterthought. The Escalade's OLED screens provided exceptional resolution for the 360-degree camera system, and the rearview camera mirror eliminated blind spots. Additional tech features included a head-up display, night vision, and augmented-reality navigation. The standard 19-speaker AKG Studio sound system was challenging to tune, with front headrest speakers distorting sound.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. The larger display's glossy surface could reflect the front passenger seat, affecting visibility in bright conditions. The infotainment system was responsive, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons for common features. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration were standard, with wireless charging available on XLE trims and above. Limited trial periods for satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote vehicle monitoring were included. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system were standard on the Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade came equipped with standard driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims, with trailer blind-spot monitoring available on Premium Luxury Platinum trims. Super Cruise, a sophisticated driver-assist system, was a $2,500 option on most trims, offering hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. It used a driver-facing camera to ensure attention and provided smooth, natural responses. However, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available for this model year.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for frontal collision and rollover protection. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, with "Good" scores across the board. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, traffic-sign recognition, and automatic high beams. A surround-view camera system and adaptive headlights were available on the top Platinum trim. While the safety systems generally worked as intended, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required some fine-tuning for smoother operation.