2023 Cadillac Escalade vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major update in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a classic and tasteful exterior with modestly sized grilles and elegant wheel arches, avoiding the oversized trends seen in other SUVs. Its dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. The interior, however, felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in a market dominated by larger digital displays. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability, making it suitable for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac Escalade presented a more modern and luxurious appearance. Its imposing size, nearly two metres tall and requiring significant space to park, was complemented by athletic design elements like thin LED lights and darkened chrome accents in the Sport Platinum trim. The Escalade's interior was a showcase of luxury, featuring a 38-inch curved screen across the dashboard, multiple wood trim options, and leather upholstery with intricate details. However, some components, like the heated seat controls and shifter, were shared with less expensive GM vehicles, detracting from the overall luxury experience. Despite these shortcomings, the Escalade's driver-focused space was rich and well-appointed, though the rear seats lacked the same level of opulence.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, providing a reliable and durable powertrain. The Sequoia's truck-based roots contributed to its impressive payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. However, its weight of approximately 2,721.5 kilograms resulted in less-than-ideal fuel consumption ratings of 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 13.9 on the highway. Despite its heft, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities enhanced by its four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension and optional Fox shocks in the TRD Pro model.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade featured a standard 6.2-litre gasoline V8 engine, delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. While adequate for towing up to 3,629 kilograms, the Escalade felt heavy during acceleration. The 10-speed automatic transmission performed well, but the powertrain seemed more suited for gentle cruising. The Escalade-V variant addressed acceleration concerns with a supercharged Corvette V8, producing 682 horsepower and 653 pound-feet of torque, though this felt excessive. An optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 offered better fuel economy at 10.5 L/100 km. The Escalade's 4WD system was basic, with a centre differential that required manual engagement for low-traction surfaces. However, its magnetic ride control dampers and optional air suspension provided a nimble and comfortable driving experience, despite some wind noise at highway speeds.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia's cargo space was versatile, with 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both rear rows down. The interior provided ample storage options, including a large centre console and door pockets, making it practical for families.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade excelled in interior space, offering 722 litres behind the third row, 2,064 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 3,426 litres with both rows folded. The Escalade ESV variant provided even more room, with up to 4,044 litres of cargo space. The interior was designed for comfort, with generous headroom and legroom in all rows, thanks to an independent rear suspension. The controls were intuitive, with a smart touchscreen interface and multiple gauge layouts. Optional features included a front console refrigerator and power-retractable side steps for easy access. The air suspension could lower the vehicle for easier loading, and the tailgate featured a separate glass window for added convenience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that felt inadequate compared to competitors. However, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims included a 14-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. The Sequoia lacked modern powertrain advancements like turbocharging or electrification, but it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted cutting-edge technology, including a vast OLED screen array across the dashboard, providing sharp and clear displays. The front camera offered a high-resolution feed with navigation overlays, enhancing the driver's 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 night vision with pedestrian detection and a 36-speaker AKG audio system for an immersive sound experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) included pre-collision systems with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert enhanced safety in a large SUV. The STAR safety system provided stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more, while a full complement of airbags and child safety features ensured passenger protection.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade received four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with lower ratings for front-passenger protection and rollover resistance. It had not been rated by the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, 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, though the reverse braking system occasionally activated erroneously.