2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, evolved significantly from its initial launch in 1996. Originally introduced as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 quickly gained popularity among young buyers, leading to the emergence of similar models from competitors. Over five generations, the RAV4 expanded in size and sophistication, shedding its "cute ute" label to become a leading crossover SUV. The 2022 model, a continuation of the 2019 redesign, consistently topped SUV sales charts in Canada. Its exterior design, while blending with current crossover trends, featured distinctive angular wheel arches and expressive headlights, giving it a playful yet aggressive appearance. Inside, the RAV4 boasted a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, complemented by unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade stood as a symbol of luxury and size, towering nearly two metres above the ground and stretching up to six metres in length. Known for its showy presence, the Escalade catered to a diverse audience, from pop musicians to large families. Despite its massive size, the Escalade's design cleverly masked its bulk with thin LED lights and darkened chrome accents. The Sport Platinum trim further enhanced its athletic appearance. Inside, the Escalade offered a rich first-row experience with a 38-inch curved screen and premium wood trim. However, the luxury diminished in the second and third rows, where components borrowed from cheaper GM vehicles were evident. Cadillac's attempt to blend luxury with functionality was evident, but the need for a more cohesive design was apparent, especially when compared to newer models like the Lyriq.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a versatile range of powertrains, starting with a gasoline-only model featuring a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided a smooth driving experience with fuel economy ratings of 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 on the highway for FWD models. The RAV4 Hybrid, with a similar engine and an electric motor, delivered 217 combined horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency of 5.8 L/100 km city and 6.3 highway. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, boasted 302 horsepower and could run up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone, with a combined efficiency rating of 2.5 Le/100 km. The RAV4's handling was enhanced by its four-wheel independent suspension and AWD models featured Multi-Terrain Select for improved performance on various surfaces.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade, while offering a luxurious driving experience, was powered by a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Despite its muscle-car sound, the engine was more suited for cruising, achieving a combined fuel economy of 15.0 L/100 km. The Escalade-V variant, with a supercharged Corvette V8, delivered a staggering 682 horsepower, addressing the acceleration shortcomings of the standard model. An optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 provided a smoother ride with 277 horsepower and better fuel economy at 10.5 L/100 km combined. The Escalade's 4WD system, while rudimentary, was complemented by magnetic ride control dampers and an optional air suspension, enhancing its manoeuvrability and ride comfort.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, despite being classified as a small SUV, offered impressive cargo space with 1,059 litres behind the second row and 1,977 litres with the seats folded. It had a payload capacity of up to 511 kilograms and could tow between 680 and 1,588 kilograms, depending on the model. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with comfortable front seats and a well-designed cabin featuring numerous storage options. The XLE grade added conveniences like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat, enhancing the overall comfort and functionality.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade excelled in interior space, offering 722 litres behind the third row, 2,064 litres behind the second row, and a massive 3,426 litres with both rows down. The Escalade ESV variant further expanded this capacity. The interior was designed for comfort, with generous headroom and legroom across all rows. The controls were intuitive, with a smart touchscreen interface and multiple gauge layouts. Optional features like a front console refrigerator and power-retractable side steps added to the convenience, while the air suspension facilitated easier loading and unloading.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and advanced features like a bird’s-eye view camera system and a digital rear-view mirror. The RAV4 Prime showcased additional tech, including multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a head-up display, enhancing its appeal to tech-savvy consumers.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade was a pioneer in automotive technology, featuring a vast array of OLED screens across the dashboard, providing sharp and clear visuals. The front camera offered a high-resolution feed with augmented reality navigation, enhancing the driving experience. 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 a 36-speaker AKG audio system, night vision with pedestrian detection, and massaging front seats, setting a high standard for in-car technology.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, featuring enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a suite of driver-assist systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-departure alert. The RAV4 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade received 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 added to its safety profile, though some systems, like reverse emergency braking, showed room for improvement.