2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vs 2023 Cadillac Escalade

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade stood as a towering presence, nearly two metres high, with a length demanding between five and a half to six metres for parking. It was a motorized cargo container, boasting three rows of leather seats and an array of computers. The Escalade ESV extended 38 centimetres longer, primarily in the wheelbase. This SUV was designed for show, appealing to pop musicians, overzealous parents, wannabe federal agents, or large families. Its athletic and trim appearance was achieved through clever design elements like thin LED lights and darkened chrome bits on the Sport Platinum trim. The interior featured a luxurious first row with a 38-inch curved screen and fine wood inlays, though some components borrowed from cheaper GM vehicles detracted from its luxury status.

In contrast, the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, available in Touring L, Limited, and Pinnacle trims, offered a more practical design. The mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package added stylish black accents and 18-inch wheels. The split grille and LED headlamps provided a modern touch. Inside, the Limited trim featured a dark interior with Nappa leather seats and a sophisticated dash. The controls were user-friendly, though the proximity of the HVAC and transmission selector dials could cause confusion. The Pacifica Hybrid prioritized practicality with sliding doors and ample cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade offered a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, suitable for towing up to 3,629 kilograms. However, its acceleration felt heavy, and the 10-speed automatic transmission was less responsive in Sport mode. The Escalade-V variant addressed this with a supercharged V8 delivering 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. An optional 3.0-litre Duramax turbodiesel V6 provided better fuel economy at 10.5 L/100 km. The Escalade's 4WD system was rudimentary, but its magnetic ride control dampers and optional air suspension improved maneuverability.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-litre V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, offering 260 horsepower. It provided 51 kilometres of all-electric range and a total range of 885 km. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but less so on highways. The hybrid model was FWD only and lacked a towing package. Despite these limitations, the Pacifica Hybrid delivered a smooth ride with a CVT and handled well due to its low centre of gravity.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade excelled in interior space, offering 722 litres behind the third row, 2,064 litres behind the second row, and 3,426 litres with both rows down. The Escalade ESV provided even more room. Its controls were intuitive, and features like a front console refrigerator and power-retractable side steps added convenience. However, the second-row seats were not powered.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid featured the FamCam interior camera, heated and cooled front seats, and a spacious third row. The second-row seats were comfortable but low, and the hybrid model lacked Stow 'n Go seats due to the battery placement. Cargo space was 914 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,978 litres with seats folded. However, it lacked features like a built-in vacuum cleaner and heated second-row seats.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade boasted OLED screens, a high-res front camera, and Super Cruise, a hands-free highway driving system. It offered wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, and a 36-speaker AKG audio system. Night Vision and a rear-seat entertainment system were optional.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens with streaming capabilities. Multiple USB ports and charging outlets ensured devices stayed powered.

The 2023 Cadillac Escalade earned four out of five stars from NHTSA, with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Reverse emergency braking was optional but occasionally triggered false alarms.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid included standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The 2022 model received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, with Good marks from IIHS except for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use.