2022 Kia Sportage vs 2023 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Kia Sportage presented a mixed bag in terms of design. While Kia's signature tiger-nose grille was a hit on models like the Stinger and Sorento, it seemed out of place on the Sportage, resembling a Halloween party fake mustache. Despite this, the Sportage excelled in other design aspects, featuring a stylish four-dot running light signature reminiscent of the Porsche Macan and a Volkswagen-like symmetry in its rear design. The SX trim's 19-inch alloy wheels added to its well-proportioned and planted stance. Inside, the Sportage boasted a Germanic-inspired design with a black dashboard, polished metallic accents, and straightforward instrumentation. The use of buttons and knobs for controls made it user-friendly, and the solid operation of the transmission shifter added a touch of quality.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a towering presence, nearly two metres tall and requiring ample space for parking. It was a motorized cargo container with three rows of leather seats and advanced technology. The Escalade's design was athletic and trim, with thin LED lights that visually narrowed its girth. The Sport Platinum trim darkened chrome elements, enhancing its sleek appearance. The interior was rich, featuring a 38-inch curved screen array, luxurious wood trim, and leather combinations. However, some components, like the heated seat controls and shifter, were shared with cheaper GM vehicles, detracting from its luxury status. The Escalade's interior was most impressive in the driver's space, leaving the rear rows less luxurious.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered a choice between a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and a more robust 237 hp engine in the SX trim. The latter provided 260 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for those living at higher elevations. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Dynamax all-wheel-drive system was standard on most trims. The Sportage SX delivered quick acceleration, with maximum torque available from 1,450 to 3,500 rpm. The ride was smooth and compliant, with a hint of body roll, and the suspension tuning gave it a sophisticated driving character. However, the steering could have been sharper, and the tires had a lower threshold before howling.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, suitable for towing up to 3,629 kilograms. The 10-speed automatic transmission performed adequately, but the Escalade felt heavy in passing situations. The Escalade-V addressed acceleration issues with a supercharged Corvette V8, producing 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. The optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 offered better fuel economy and smooth torque delivery. The Escalade's 4WD system was rudimentary, with a centre differential that locked torque 50:50 front to rear. The magnetic ride control dampers and optional air suspension improved maneuverability, but wind noise was noticeable at highway speeds.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, though compact, offered a surprisingly roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. The Sportage's cargo space was limited, with 1,703 litres available with the rear seats folded down. The smart liftgate technology was a convenient feature, allowing hands-free access to the cargo area.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted an exceptionally spacious interior, with 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row and 3,426 litres with both rows down. The Escalade ESV offered even more room, making it a packaging marvel. The interior featured simple controls, a front console refrigerator, and power-retractable side steps for easy access. The air suspension lowered the vehicle for loading and unloading, and the tailgate had a separate glass window for added convenience. However, the second-row seats were not powered like the third row.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The SX trim added UVO Intelligence connected services, satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the UVO Intelligence system lagged in technological sophistication, lacking features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a vast array of OLED screens, providing sharp and clear displays. The front camera displayed a high-resolution feed of the road, and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity were standard. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving system, was a standout feature, offering advanced capabilities and safety measures. The Escalade also included night vision, a 36-speaker AKG audio system, and massaging front seats, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The SX trim included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Sportage received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the SX earning an Acceptable headlight rating.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade earned four out of five 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 Super Cruise added to its safety credentials.