2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Cadillac Escalade

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued to build on its previous redesign, which had shifted the midsize SUV from a front-wheel-drive to a rear-wheel-drive platform. This change had already given the Explorer a more balanced and sleek appearance, and the 2025 refresh further enhanced its aesthetic appeal. The front end was restyled to appear wider and more ruggedly handsome, while new LED taillights and a strip of trim connecting them added a modern touch. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements in materials and design, making it more competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the available trim levels in Canada to four, with prices ranging from $52,830 to $71,430, including the destination charge.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade, meanwhile, maintained its status as the epitome of Cadillac luxury, with its updated design further distinguishing it from its Chevrolet and GMC siblings. The most notable exterior change was a new front end that aligned the gasoline Escalade stylistically with Cadillac's EVs. The interior was a showcase of high-tech features, including a massive 55-inch display that spanned the dashboard. Cadillac offered a range of trim levels, including the performance-oriented Escalade-V, and the interior was available with various luxurious materials and finishes. The Escalade's design and features underscored its position as a luxury SUV, though it shared its platform with other GM full-size SUVs.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engine options. Most trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer ST and optionally the Platinum trim featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, delivering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. All Canadian models had a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with various driving modes available. Fuel economy ratings for the base engine were 11.9 L/100 km city, 8.7 highway, and 10.4 combined, while the V6 in the Platinum and ST trims had slightly higher consumption figures. The Explorer's performance was commendable, with quick acceleration and responsive handling, especially in the ST-Line with the Street Package.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade dropped its diesel option, leaving only the 6.2-litre V8 engine, which produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade-V boasted a supercharged version of the V8, generating 682 hp and 653 lb-ft of torque. All models featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, with four-wheel drive standard on most trims. The Escalade's performance was solid, though it lacked the off-road capability of some competitors. Magnetic Ride Control and optional air suspension provided a comfortable ride, but the Escalade's handling couldn't match that of more agile luxury SUVs. The V8 offered strong acceleration, but the brakes were less confidence-inspiring without the optional Brembo upgrade.

The 2025 Ford Explorer accommodated six passengers in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The interior featured comfortable front and second-row seats, though the third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 461 litres behind the third row, 1,302 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,429 litres. The Explorer's interior updates and storage solutions made it a practical choice for families.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered both short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase ESV configurations, with seating for up to eight or seven with second-row captain's chairs. The ESV provided additional 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 and up to 4,043 litres in the ESV. Towing capacity was competitive, though Cadillac lacked some of the towing features offered by rivals. The Escalade's interior was spacious and luxurious, with power-folding seats and a power liftgate enhancing functionality.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a new 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system called Ford Digital Experience. This system included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, among other features. The Explorer's infotainment was user-friendly, with Google Maps integration and a range of apps available. The B&O sound systems varied by trim, with the higher trims offering a more powerful setup.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade combined traditional engineering with cutting-edge technology, featuring a 55-inch display that spanned the dashboard. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 19-speaker AKG audio system, and an optional 36-speaker version. The Escalade also offered an augmented-reality head-up display and night vision. While the tech could be overwhelming, Cadillac made efforts to ensure usability, with easy-to-navigate screens and a traditional steering wheel.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came standard with Ford CoPilot 360 Assist+, which included adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist and other driver assistance features. Higher trims added a surround-view camera system and BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer performed well in crash tests, though some trims had less favourable headlight ratings.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade included a comprehensive suite of driver assist features, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving system was also available, offering improved performance over previous iterations. However, crash test ratings were not available at the time of writing.