2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Land Rover Defender

The 2022 Land Rover Defender retained its distinctive design, echoing its heritage with a boxy profile, tailgate-mounted spare wheel, and flat hood reminiscent of the original version and classic Series Land Rovers. Despite these nostalgic elements, the Defender was a thoroughly modern vehicle. Its rounded corners improved aerodynamics, while recessed LED headlights added a unique personality. The modern Defender was significantly larger than its predecessor, offering improved interior space and ergonomics. The interior design emphasized ruggedness without appearing gimmicky, featuring a mix of leather and suede upholstery, exposed metal, and screws, which suggested durability and practicality for off-road adventures.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a behemoth, towering nearly two metres above the ground and stretching up to six metres in length. It was designed for show, with its massive size and bold presence making it a favourite among pop musicians and large families. Despite its size, the Escalade managed to look athletic, thanks to thin LED lights and darkened chrome elements that visually narrowed its girth. The interior was luxurious, with a 38-inch curved screen array and high-quality wood trim. However, some components, like the seats and controls, were shared with cheaper GM vehicles, which detracted from the overall luxury experience.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A mid-level 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain delivered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. The highlight was the new V8 engine, generating 518 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Defender 90 from zero to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. All models featured a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. The Defender excelled in off-road conditions, with features like Terrain Response 2 and All-Terrain Progress Control, while maintaining impressive on-road comfort and handling.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade came standard with a 6.2-litre gasoline V8 engine, producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, suitable for towing up to 3,629 kilograms. However, it felt heavy during acceleration. The Escalade-V variant addressed this with a supercharged Corvette V8, delivering 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. An optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 offered better fuel economy and smooth torque delivery. The Escalade's 4WD system was more basic compared to conventional SUVs, but its magnetic ride control dampers and air suspension provided a comfortable and nimble driving experience.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender offered versatile interior configurations, with the two-door Defender 90 featuring 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats. The four-door Defender 110 provided more space, with up to 1,875 litres of cargo capacity in two-row versions. The interior design emphasized functionality, with easy-to-reach controls and ample storage options, including a large centre-console storage bin that could be equipped with refrigeration.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted an exceptionally spacious interior, with 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 3,426 litres with both rows down. The Escalade ESV offered even more room, maxing out at 4,044 litres. The independent rear suspension allowed for generous headroom and legroom in all rows. The controls were intuitive, with a smart infotainment system and multiple USB ports. Optional features included a front console refrigerator and power-retractable side steps for easy access.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender featured the Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 10-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster was standard on most trims, with an optional 11.4-inch touchscreen available. The system's graphics and menu layouts were user-friendly, though the screen required a firm touch. A surround-view camera system was standard, with optional features like a 14-speaker Meridian audio system and head-up display.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with a vast array of tech features, including OLED screens across the dash, providing sharp and clear displays. The navigation system offered augmented reality overlays in the driver's field of view. Standard features included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The optional Super Cruise system provided hands-free highway driving, using infrared eye-tracking cameras for safety. The Escalade also offered night vision with pedestrian detection and a 36-speaker AKG audio system.

The 2022 Land Rover Defender came with standard driver-assist features like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, traffic-sign recognition, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control was optional. The Defender had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, which was common for luxury vehicles.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade received a four-star rating from the NHTSA, with lower scores 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 included reverse emergency braking, night vision, and Super Cruise.