2025 Cadillac Escalade vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with significant design changes that set it apart. It was lower, wider, and longer than its sibling, with a stretched wheelbase that emphasized its broad-shouldered proportions. The CX-50 featured square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a robust appearance. The Meridian Edition, in particular, enhanced its active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. Despite its rugged looks, the CX-50 didn't offer enhanced off-road capabilities beyond other trim levels. The interior was well-designed, with a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, meanwhile, embodied old-school Cadillac luxury with its updated design. It featured a new front end that aligned it stylistically with Cadillac's EVs, including large vertical headlights and tall taillights reminiscent of classic Cadillacs. The Escalade offered both standard and long-wheelbase configurations, with various trim levels and a performance model. Inside, Cadillac worked to differentiate the Escalade from its GM siblings, introducing a 55-inch display that spanned the dashboard. The interior was luxurious, with options for real leather and curated motifs. The Premium Luxury Platinum model impressed with its Whisper Beige upholstery and wood trim, showcasing Cadillac's commitment to luxury.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged version delivered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, offering Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. Turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. The CX-50 shared powertrains with the CX-5 but offered a different driving experience, focusing more on comfort than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, making it less ideal for everyday driving.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped the diesel engine option, leaving the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 as the sole engine choice, producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade-V featured a supercharged V8 with 682 hp and 653 lb-ft. All models used a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and efficient highway cruising. In Canada, four-wheel drive was standard, with the Escalade-V offering a performance-oriented AWD system. Magnetic Ride Control damping was standard on most trims, but the Escalade's body-on-frame construction limited its handling compared to unibody rivals. The V8 provided strong acceleration, but the brakes lacked confidence, with Brembo calipers available as an upgrade.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded, trailing some competitors. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the cargo area wasn't ideal for bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a rotary infotainment controller that didn't compromise console space.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, available in standard and long-wheelbase versions, offered ample interior space. The ESV model extended cargo space and third-row legroom, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Escalade boasted best-in-class first-row headroom and legroom, though it lagged in third-row headroom. Cargo space was generous, with power-folding seats and a power liftgate for convenience. The Escalade's towing capacity met segment expectations, though it lacked some towing features offered by competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Higher trims added wireless charging and a Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment but offered physical feedback for easier use. While the system felt dated, it suited buyers seeking simplicity.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade combined traditional engineering with advanced technology, featuring a 55-inch display spanning the dashboard. It included a digital instrument cluster, infotainment touchscreen, and front-passenger screen. A 19-speaker AKG audio system was standard, with a 36-speaker option available. Cadillac retained standalone wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with user-friendly icons and haptic feedback. The optional Executive Second Row Package added luxury features for rear passengers, enhancing the Escalade's appeal.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It offered standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, with additional options available. NHTSA ratings were incomplete at the time of publication.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade included standard driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. GM's Safety Alert Seat provided warnings, and Super Cruise allowed for hands-free driving on mapped roads. While crash test ratings were unavailable, Cadillac's safety features were comprehensive.