2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2020 Acura MDX presented itself as a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, neither embarrassing nor overly impressing its driver. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to its front end. These headlights, with their five LED elements per side, flanked a trapezoidal grille, creating an expressive face. The MDX's sleek, low-slung profile, combined with flawless paint and chrome, contributed to its overall appeal. Inside, the MDX offered a modern and simple design, with a centre stack featuring twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that gave it a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade drew inspiration from Cadillac's impressive concept vehicles, particularly the Escala, evident in its redesigned face. While the Escalade didn't break new ground in styling, it featured standard 22-inch wheels, crisp creases, and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade's interior was a testament to luxury, with options for leather and wood trims, and even massaging seats in the Platinum trim. The cabin was spacious, thanks to the new independent rear suspension design, offering improved passenger comfort and cargo capacity. The Escalade's design and quality, combined with high-tech controls, made it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the MDX Sport Hybrid, which combined a 3.0-litre V6 engine with three electric motors for a total of 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline-only model, equipped with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), delivered impressive straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a reliable choice for long drives.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade, on the other hand, offered a choice between a 6.2-litre V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine with 277 horsepower and the same torque. The V8, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered robust acceleration and a satisfying driving experience. The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved, thanks to a new independent rear suspension, Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 adaptive dampers, and 4-Corner Air Ride suspension. These features provided a smooth and controlled ride, making the Escalade a comfortable and capable long-distance cruiser.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered a practical and versatile interior, with sliding and reclining second-row seats for easy access to the third row. It provided 447 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 1,229 litres with the third row folded, and 2,574 litres with both the second and third rows folded. The MDX featured ample storage options, including a flexible centre console and tri-zone climate control, making it a stylish alternative to a minivan for families.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more functional cabin, thanks to its independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase. It offered 722 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,064 litres with the third row folded, and 3,426 litres with both the second and third rows folded. The Escalade's interior featured heated and ventilated seats, power-adjustable front chairs, and a range of luxury options, making it a comfortable and spacious choice for passengers and cargo alike.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a range of technology features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD/MP3 player. The Technology Package added navigation, parking sensors, and an upgraded audio system. The Elite Package offered additional features like a surround-view camera and a rear entertainment screen, providing a comprehensive tech experience.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade set a new standard with its 38-inch curved OLED display, offering greater pixel density than a 4K TV. It featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 19-speaker AKG sound system, and AR navigation. The Escalade's technology was impressive, with features like a full-colour head-up display and a 36-speaker AKG Reference sound system, providing a cutting-edge infotainment experience.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assistance. The Escalade's advanced safety systems worked smoothly, though there were a few false alarms during testing. The upcoming Super Cruise technology promised to enhance the Escalade's safety and convenience further.