2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its imposing size and distinctive design elements. Its massive grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights were scaled to match its size, reminiscent of classic Cadillac tailfins. The front end, with its tall hood and vertical running lights, gave the impression of a diesel locomotive. The Escalade's styling set it apart from other GM full-size SUVs, emphasizing its bulk. The 22-inch wheels appeared small against the vast sheet metal. Different trim pieces for "sport" and "luxury" models offered varied exterior aesthetics. Despite sharing its body-on-frame architecture with other GM SUVs and trucks, the Escalade maintained its luxury appeal. Inside, it offered leather upholstery, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof, but lacked a cohesive design theme, with some cheap-looking plastic bits detracting from its luxury feel.

The 2023 Lexus RX, built in Canada, presented a modern and sophisticated design. It was shorter in height, broader in width, and had a longer wheelbase than its predecessor, yet maintained the same overall length. The reduction in rear overhang and softer design lines gave it a smaller appearance. The spindle-style grille integrated seamlessly into the design, complemented by a dramatically elevated hood and upswept body sides. The rear featured a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. The RX's styling was familiar yet fresh, distinguishing it from the previous generation. Inside, the RX offered a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a touchscreen display. The quality was high, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX was available in various trims, including hybrid options, with Canadian pricing starting at $58,650.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain choices. The standard 6.2-litre gasoline V8 produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Alternatively, the Duramax 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six diesel engine delivered 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel-drive in Canada. The Escalade-V performance model boasted a 682-horsepower 6.2-litre supercharged V8. The diesel engine, despite its lower horsepower, provided smooth power delivery and a lower torque peak, aiding in acceleration. The gasoline engine had a slight towing advantage, with a maximum capacity of 3,629 kilograms. However, the Escalade's ride was unsettled, with its body-on-frame construction and 22-inch wheels contributing to a less luxurious feel compared to unibody SUVs.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo-four offered better performance at higher altitudes and improved fuel economy compared to the outgoing V6. On a test loop, the RX 350 Executive displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport 3 trim felt more secure with its adaptive damping suspension. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 7.3 seconds, with fuel economy estimated at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres. The F Sport 3's adaptive suspension improved ride quality, and both models offered superior pedal feel and modulation.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade shared its body shell and chassis with other GM full-size SUVs, offering a cavernous cabin. It provided the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs, with second-row captain’s chairs and a power split-folding third-row bench seat. Cargo space was generous, with 722 litres with all seats in place, 2,064 litres with the third-row seats folded, and 3,426 litres with all rear seats folded. However, the raised centre console offered limited storage space, and the front seats lacked distinctiveness. Cadillac included dedicated buttons for seat heating and ventilation, enhancing functionality.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 models offered comfort and modern sophistication. The RX 350 Executive featured semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, exclusive luxury seat designs, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel. The RX 350 F Sport 3 had sport-oriented features, including black NuLuxe simulated leather seats and a thick-rimmed heated steering wheel. Both models provided exceptional comfort, with roomy back seats and improved cargo space. The cargo area measured 838 litres with the second row in position and 1,308 litres with the rear seat folded down, though still not generous for the segment.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured a 38-inch curved OLED display, comprising three screens. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. The display blended seamlessly into the dashboard, with functional touchscreen icons. However, the carousel format for changing radio stations was awkward, and the rotary controller seemed like an afterthought. The Escalade's OLED screens provided excellent 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 an augmented-reality navigation system.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface multimedia infotainment system, with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and connected services plans. The Drive Connect plan offered Intelligent Assistant natural voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles allowed for personalized settings, and streaming services were available. The Mark Levinson premium sound system required tone adjustments for optimal performance. Digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and a digital rearview mirror were standard, with a colour head-up display available.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade came with standard driver-assistance technology, including 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. Super Cruise, a sophisticated driver-assist system, was available on most trims, offering hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. However, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available for this model year.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Semi-autonomous driving technologies, such as Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist, were available. Advanced Park Assist offered automated parking, though it was slow. LSS+ 3.0 was impressive but had some flaws, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls in models with a HUD.