Can’t decide between the 2022 Cadillac Escalade and BMW X7? Both luxury SUVs offer three rows of upscale comfort and an incredibly powerful performance. But you’ve only got space for one, so it’s time to look at how each SUV stacks up against the other.
Rugged Presence: 2022 Cadillac Escalade
As a truck-based, full-size SUV, the Escalade has the more muscular stance. With its imposing grille and the perfect amount of chrome trim, this SUV can’t help but turn heads.
The X7 is a three-row, midsize crossover SUV with a car-based chassis. Instead of a rugged, imposing style, the X7 is best described as sleek and sloping. Although the X7 isn’t as conspicuous as the Escalade, you may find you prefer its subtle style.
Standard Power: 2022 Cadillac Escalade
Every Escalade comes standard with a hefty V8 engine. Not only does this 420-horsepower V8 push you up to speed in a flash, but it also helps you tow a bigger boat. Properly equipped, the Escalade tows max loads of 8,200 pounds.
The 2022 Escalade base powertrain offers:
- 6.2L V8 (420 horsepower, 460 lb-ft of torque)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Optional four-wheel drive
Although it’s not quite as powerful, the X7’s turbocharged six-cylinder engine is speedy in its own right. This BMW crossover isn’t quite as capable as the Escalade, either, with a max tow rating of 7,500 pounds. However, the X7 does come standard with sporty all-wheel drive, which offers a safer performance on icy pavement. (On the trail, however, all-wheel drive isn’t quite as capable as the Escalade’s available four-wheel-drive system).
The base BMW X7 powertrain includes:
- Turbo 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine (335 hp, 331 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic
- All-wheel drive
Maximum Power: 2022 BMW X7
On the other hand, the BMW X7’s optional engine offers a very speedy ride indeed. Boat owners should note, however, that upgrading to the bigger engine does not increase towing capabilities.
The X7 is available with an optional V8 engine:
- 4.4L V8 (523 hp, 553 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic
- All-wheel drive
Meanwhile, the Cadillac Escalade offers an optional turbo-diesel engine. Compared to the base V8, the available diesel engine maximizes EPA ratings, helping this big SUV earn up to 23 mpg combined (21 city/27 highway). The X7 is thriftiest with its base engine, but it only earns up to 21 mpg combined (19/24 mpg).
The Cadillac offers an optional turbo-diesel powertrain to maximize fuel economy:
- Turbo 3.0L six-cylinder diesel engine (277 hp, 460 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic
- Rear-wheel drive
- Optional four-wheel drive
Interior Luxury: Cadillac Escalade
Both models are undeniably luxurious, but the Escalade offers more trim models, which means more options for shoppers. Standard features include everything from remote start to a 19-speaker AKG Studio sound system. And things only get more luxurious as you move up the trim levels. The Escalade offers massaging front seats, a leather-wrapped instrument panel, 36-speaker AKG premium audio system, and much more.
Meanwhile, the 2022 BMW X7 offers two trim models. The xDrive40i is a smooth operator, with self-leveling air suspension, a panoramic sunroof, and four-zone automatic climate control. Upgrade to the M50i for the all-star treatment, with leather upholstery, a heads-up display and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Choose Your Luxury SUV
In the end, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade has a lot more to offer, whether you’re looking for the most capable SUV or just more luxury overall.