2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2024 Lexus GX presented a bold departure from its predecessor, the GX 460, with a more geometric and aggressive design. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front fascia stood more vertically, giving the SUV a robust appearance. The hood featured raised humps above the front wheels, aiding off-road visibility. The side profile was sleek, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for enhanced visibility. The GX was offered in a single trim with five packages, each catering to different needs, from luxury to off-roading. The interior combined luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road functions.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade embraced its status as a luxury icon with a design update that aligned it with Cadillac's EV lineup. The front end featured large vertical headlights and horizontal daytime running lights, while the rear retained tall vertical taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillacs. The Escalade offered both standard and long-wheelbase versions, with various trim levels, including the performance-oriented Escalade-V. Inside, Cadillac focused on differentiating the Escalade from its GM siblings with a screen-centric interior, highlighted by a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard. The interior offered a range of luxurious materials and curated motifs, with the Premium Luxury Platinum model showcasing Whisper Beige upholstery and wood trim.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided ample low-end torque, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time 4WD, and a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and the E-KDSS suspension system, enhancing off-road performance. The GX demonstrated impressive acceleration and braking, with a composed on-road demeanor despite its size.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade retained its naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade-V offered a supercharged version with 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. All models featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD standard in Canada. The Escalade-V had a performance-oriented AWD system. Magnetic Ride Control damping was standard on most trims, but the Escalade's body-on-frame construction limited its on-road handling compared to unibody rivals. The V8 provided strong acceleration, but the brakes lacked confidence without the optional Brembo upgrade.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with essential physical controls retained. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot adults in the first two rows, but the third row was cramped. Cargo space was a highlight, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded. Overtrail models offered even more cargo capacity, with 1,291 litres in total.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, available in standard and long-wheelbase versions, provided ample interior space. The ESV model offered increased cargo space and third-row legroom. The Escalade boasted best-in-segment cargo capacity, with 722 litres behind the rear seats in the standard model, expanding to 3,412 litres with seats folded. The ESV model offered even more space. Towing capacity was competitive, but Cadillac lacked some towing features offered by rivals.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a voice assistant and subscription-based services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. A 10-speaker audio system was standard, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available in higher trims. Subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade showcased a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, incorporating multiple touchscreens for various functions. A 19-speaker AKG audio system was standard, with a 36-speaker version available. The Escalade retained standalone wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a traditional steering wheel and power-operated doors adding to its high-tech appeal. The optional Executive Second Row Package enhanced rear-seat luxury with additional screens and controls.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. While crash test ratings were not yet available, the new architecture and ADAS features inspired confidence in its safety.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered a comprehensive suite of driver assist features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and Super Cruise, GM's hands-free driving system. Super Cruise had improved, but the handoff to manual control remained abrupt. Crash test ratings were not available at the time of writing.