Cadillac Escalade ESV vs Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered two engine choices: a standard 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six with 277 horsepower and the same torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive. The Escalade ESV's weight ranged from 5,785 to 6,182 pounds, depending on the trim, which could challenge the engine's performance at higher speeds, especially when towing. Fuel economy was not officially rated by the EPA for the ESV, but the traditional Escalade achieved between 17 and 23 mpg combined. During testing, the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg in mixed driving conditions.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, starting with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy for FWD models was 27-28 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined, while AWD models achieved slightly lower figures. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for 217 horsepower and an impressive 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway/40 mpg combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid delivered 302 horsepower, 40 mpg city/36 mpg highway/38 mpg combined, and up to 42 miles of electric-only range. The RAV4's handling was praised for its car-like feel, with independent suspension and AWD models featuring Multi-Terrain Select and dynamic torque vectoring.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed for comfort and cargo capacity, offering leatherette seating with available leather upholstery, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, and heated seats in the first two rows. The interior featured tri-zone climate control, a hands-free power liftgate, and a power second-row bench seat. Cargo space was generous, with 126.6 cubic feet behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third. However, the power-adjustable third row could be cumbersome to fold, and the hands-free liftgate was inconsistent. The Escalade ESV also offered an adaptive air suspension and a rear window that opened for additional storage options.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, while classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 69.8 cubic feet with the second row folded. It had a payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds, depending on the configuration, and towing capacities ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 pounds, depending on the model. Inside, the RAV4 was roomy and comfortable for four adults, with ample storage options and cupholders throughout the cabin. The second-row split-folding bench seat provided flexibility, though the middle seat was less desirable for long journeys.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was a technological powerhouse, featuring a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system with an optional 36-speaker upgrade. It included wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The highlight was a 38-inch curved OLED screen, offering unparalleled graphics and responsiveness. Cadillac's Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain highways. However, it occasionally struggled with lane changes and construction zones, requiring driver intervention.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, six-speaker audio, and compatibility with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system with navigation. The RAV4 Prime featured additional USB ports, auxiliary power outlets, and a wireless charging pad. Available technology included a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display, enhancing the RAV4's appeal.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, park assist, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and night vision. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star rating, with a three-star rollover test result.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota’s Star Safety System, including stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also had eight airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and road sign assist. The RAV4 was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with the RAV4 Prime earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The NHTSA gave the RAV4 a five-star rating.