2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its classic design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The U.S. version of the new-for-2024 Suna trim featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, adding a touch of elegance. Mazda enhanced the CX-5 by improving fuel economy for the base engine, removing a previous wheel design, and adding wireless charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto to several trims. The lineup included models with a 187-horsepower base engine and a 256-horsepower Turbo engine, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. In Canada, the CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $35,476 to $48,276, offering an upscale experience at a mainstream price.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, the epitome of old-school Cadillac luxury, showcased a refreshed design that distinguished it from its Chevrolet and GMC counterparts. The updated front end brought the gasoline Escalade closer to the Escalade IQ and other Cadillac EVs, featuring large vertical headlights and 24-inch wheels. Cadillac offered standard and long-wheelbase Escalade ESV body styles with various trims, including the performance-oriented Escalade-V. Inside, Cadillac replaced the 38-inch OLED display with a 55-inch screen spanning the dashboard, enhancing the high-tech feel. The Escalade's interior boasted luxurious materials, with options like Renaissance Red leather and carbon-fibre trim, elevating its status as a premium SUV.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 horsepower on regular gas, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine to shine. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km, and observed figures of 10.3 L/100 km. The CX-5's suspension improvements and standard AWD contributed to a sophisticated driving experience, with excellent visibility and confident handling. It offered a quiet ride on highways and lively handling in the city, with the ability to tackle off-road trails thanks to its 20 cm ground clearance.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped the Duramax turbodiesel option, leaving the 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. The Escalade-V featured a supercharged V8 with 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque. All models had a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and efficient highway cruising. In Canada, most models came with standard 4WD, while the Escalade-V had a performance-oriented AWD system. Despite its size, the Escalade's ride quality was impressive, though it lacked the handling finesse of some luxury competitors. The V8 engine offered quick acceleration, but the brakes could be more confidence-inspiring, with an optional Performance Upgrade Package available for enhanced braking performance.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with comfortable and supportive seating. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the Signature trim. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with good rear seat support and thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded, though it was smaller than some competitors.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade provided ample space with its three-row configuration, available in standard and long-wheelbase ESV models. The ESV offered increased cargo space and third-row legroom. The Escalade boasted best-in-segment cargo capacity, with power liftgate and power-folding seats for convenience. It could tow up to 3,675 kilograms, meeting segment expectations. The interior featured luxurious materials and extensive creature comforts, with options like the Executive Second Row Package for enhanced passenger experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated via a console knob, with Mazda Connected Services offering remote features and emergency assistance. A 10-speaker Bose sound system was standard in the Suna trim, enhancing the premium feel.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade featured a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard, with a separate touchscreen for climate controls. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 19-speaker AKG audio system standard and a 36-speaker version available. The Escalade included advanced features like an augmented-reality head-up display and night vision, with an optional Executive Second Row Package for rear passengers.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it didn't earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered standard driver assist features like adaptive cruise control, blind-zone steering assist, and a 360-degree camera system. It included GM-specific features like the Safety Alert Seat and Super Cruise, a hands-free driving system. Current crash test ratings were unavailable at the time of writing.