2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Genesis GV80

The 2024 Genesis GV80 was a testament to luxury, offering a choice between the 2.5T turbocharged four-cylinder and the 3.5T twin-turbocharged V6 engines. In Canada, the Advanced trim was available for both engines, while the Prestige trim was exclusive to the V6. Prices ranged from $76,000 to $92,500, with all-inclusive pricing that covered five years of scheduled maintenance and at-home concierge service. The GV80 3.5T test vehicle arrived in the U.S. Prestige Signature trim, which was not available in Canada, suggesting that the Canadian market might not miss much by sticking with the regular Prestige trim. The GV80's exterior offered six colours and stylish 22-inch wheels, while the interior boasted diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents. Ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display further emphasized its luxury status.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, meanwhile, continued to embody old-school Cadillac luxury with its updated design. The new front end brought the gasoline Escalade closer in style to the Escalade IQ and other Cadillac EVs, featuring large vertical headlights and tall, vertical taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillacs. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase ESV body styles, the Escalade offered a range of trims, including the performance-focused Escalade-V. Inside, Cadillac worked to differentiate the Escalade from its GM siblings, introducing a 55-inch display that spanned the dashboard. The interior offered a mix of synthetic and real leather, with curated motifs for a personalized touch. The Premium Luxury Platinum trim impressed with its Whisper Beige upholstery and wood trim, showcasing Cadillac's commitment to luxury.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with five driving modes available. The GV80 3.5T delivered a rewarding driving experience, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its P265/40R22 all-season tires. However, the steering was unremarkable, and seat comfort was an issue on long trips.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped its diesel option, leaving only the 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade-V featured a supercharged version of the V8, producing 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. All models came with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and most had standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Escalade's Magnetic Ride Control damping and optional air suspension couldn't fully mask its weight, and while V8 power provided quick acceleration, the brakes lacked confidence. The Performance Upgrade Package offered Brembo brakes and other enhancements for those seeking improved performance.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige was the only model offering a third-row seat. It featured real or Nappa leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. However, seat comfort was lacking, with the driver’s cushion becoming uncomfortable on long trips. Cargo space was commendable, with 988 litres behind the second row and up to 2,378 litres with the seats folded.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered both standard and long-wheelbase configurations, with the ESV providing additional cargo space and third-row legroom. Seating for up to eight was available, with ample space in the first two rows. The standard-length model offered 722 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 3,412 litres with the seats folded. ESV models offered even more space, making the Escalade a leader in cargo capacity. Towing capacity was competitive, though Cadillac lacked some of the towing features offered by rivals.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial on the centre console for ease of use. The standard package included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Prestige trim added a Lexicon premium sound system and a head-up display. The digital key system allowed smartphone access, and the voice-recognition system was user-friendly.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade introduced a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, with a separate touchscreen for climate controls. A 19-speaker AKG audio system was standard, with a 36-speaker version available. The Escalade retained standalone wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the optional Executive Second Row Package added screens and controls for rear passengers. Cadillac's voice recognition was less sophisticated than some rivals, but the overall tech package was impressive.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came equipped with numerous advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact ratings were slightly lower.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered standard driver assist features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. Super Cruise, Cadillac's hands-free driving system, was available, though it required driver attention. Current crash test ratings were not available at the time of writing.