2022 Lexus RX vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in the base 350 trim and the hybrid 450h, both offered in standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX catered to different seating needs with options for five or seven passengers. The exterior was marked by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained look. The F Sport models added a touch of athleticism with 20-inch wheels and unique styling elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious appeal, with F Sport models enhancing the sporty vibe through specific badging and trim. However, the interior design felt somewhat dated, and the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was less than ideal, with limited lumbar support and challenging driving position adjustments.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its unapologetically massive size and distinct styling elements. Its front end, reminiscent of a diesel locomotive, featured a tall hood and vertical running lights, setting it apart from other GM full-size SUVs. The Escalade offered different trim pieces for sport and luxury models, with the Sport variant featuring darkened trim. Built on a body-on-frame architecture shared with other GM SUVs and trucks, the Escalade provided a spacious interior with leather upholstery and wood trim. However, the design lacked a cohesive theme, and some materials appeared cheap. Despite its size, the Escalade's ride was unsettled, and it lacked the off-road capability of its GM cousins.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with two electric motors for a total output of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics and a disappointing engine note. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal changes in handling. The RX excelled in driving comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections effectively. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain options: a standard 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six diesel engine producing 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The diesel engine impressed with smooth power delivery and a low torque peak, although the brake pedal felt hard. The gasoline engine had a slight towing advantage, with a maximum capacity of 3,629 kilograms. Despite its size, the Escalade's ride was unsettled, and it lacked off-road capability. The body-on-frame construction and 22-inch wheels contributed to a less comfortable ride compared to unibody SUVs.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered a passenger volume of 2,826 litres in its standard two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration, provided limited space for anything beyond groceries. Cargo space varied, with 453 litres behind the second row in the standard RX and up to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the cargo area had a high load-in height.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade, sharing its platform with other GM full-size SUVs, boasted a cavernous cabin with the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. The standard version measured 5,382 mm, while the extended ESV was 384 mm longer. Cargo space was impressive, with 722 litres with all seats in place and up to 3,426 litres with all rear seats folded. However, the raised centre console offered limited storage space, and the seats, despite being power-adjustable, felt similar to those in GM's other SUVs. Cadillac included dedicated buttons for seat heating and ventilation, enhancing functionality.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available for the 450h L and as an option for other trims. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the touchscreens were ergonomically unfriendly, with access issues due to the design structure. The alternatives, voice commands and a touchpad, were frustrating to use. However, the RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, a WiFi hotspot, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App allowed for remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade boasted a 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. The display blended seamlessly with the dashboard, and the touchscreen's icons were arranged for functionality. However, the carousel format for changing radio stations was awkward, and the rotary controller felt 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 2022 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered standard driver-assistance technology, including cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. 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, providing hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. The Escalade's safety ratings were not published by the IIHS or NHTSA.