2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trims, offering a sporty appearance that was new to the model. This edition featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching, which was a refreshing change from the typical black interiors. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a behemoth of a vehicle, towering nearly two metres above the ground and requiring significant space to park. Despite its size, the Escalade managed to look athletic and trim, thanks to design elements like thin LED lights and darkened chrome bits on the Sport Platinum trim. The interior was rich, with a 38-inch curved array of screens and luxurious wood trim options. However, some interior elements borrowed from cheaper GM vehicles detracted from the overall luxury feel, especially in the second and third rows. The Escalade's design was a testament to its ability to wear its plus-size dimensions with pride, appealing to those who valued space and presence.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive as standard, offering a fuel consumption rate of 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined. The Ascent's flat-four engine layout contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT was praised for its smooth operation, and the Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms. The vehicle's X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance provided commendable off-road capabilities. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies could feel unstable, detracting from highway driving satisfaction.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade offered a standard 6.2-litre gasoline V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 15.0 litres per 100 kilometres. While the V8 was suitable for towing up to 3,629 kilograms, it felt heavy during passing situations. The Escalade-V variant addressed acceleration issues with a supercharged Corvette V8, delivering 682 horsepower and 653 pound-feet of torque. The optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 provided better fuel economy and smooth torque delivery. The Escalade's 4WD system was more rudimentary compared to conventional SUVs, but its magnetic ride control dampers and optional air suspension enhanced maneuverability and ride comfort.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The interior offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The Ascent provided ample storage, with a useful dashboard shelf and large cupholders. Cargo space was generous, with 458 litres behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted an exceptionally spacious interior, with 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 2,064 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 3,426 litres with both rows down. The Escalade ESV variant offered even more space. The interior was designed for comfort, with simple controls and an optional front console refrigerator. Power-retractable side steps and an air suspension facilitated access and loading. The tailgate's separate glass window was a practical feature, though the second-row seats were not powered like the third row.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. While the system was user-friendly, the voice recognition technology needed improvement. The Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality, and the Harman Kardon premium sound system was not available for this trim.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade was equipped with a vast array of OLED screens, providing sharp and clear displays. The navigation system's augmented reality was displayed in the driver's field of view, enhancing usability. Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving system, was a standout feature, offering advanced capabilities and safety measures. The Escalade also included a 36-speaker AKG audio system, night vision with pedestrian detection, and a rear-seat entertainment system with streaming capabilities.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating for rollover resistance. The Ascent's EyeSight driver-assist technology included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring, though it had limitations in certain conditions. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and optional blind-spot monitoring.

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, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features like reverse emergency braking and Super Cruise enhanced safety, though the reverse braking system occasionally activated erroneously.