Jeep has come out with a new big three-row SUV, the Grand Wagoner. It removes dust from a plate that has not been used since the early 1990s and is the brand’s most expensive and luxurious model. Immense power, impressive technology and a premium cab are the highlights rather than the typical Jeep-breaking capabilities of trails.
Of course, there is another American SUV that goes through these same golden rooms: the Cadillac Escalade. Since its recent redesign, the Escalade has been Edmunds ’largest luxury SUV. Can the new Grand Wagoneer outperform the Cadillac Escalade? Edmunds experts compare these rivals to find out.
POWER AND FUEL ECONOMY
The Grand Wagoneer offers two engine options: the 6.4-liter V8 base engine that produces 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, and an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder that produces 510 hp and 500 lb -ft. In the Edmunds tests, the V8 was good enough to get the Grand Wagon from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds.
This is a second faster than the Escalade, which comes with a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. Cadillac does not offer a more powerful engine upgrade, although a six-cylinder turbocharged diesel that produces 277 hp and 460 lb-ft is available.
This diesel is the champion of fuel economy in the competition, earning an impressive 23 mpg estimated by the EPA in combined city and road driving. Otherwise, you’re looking at 15-17 mpg for the Grand Wagon or 16 mpg for the V8-powered Escalade.
The Escalade’s superior diesel engine fuel economy is attractive, but buyers of large SUVs often want great power.
Winner: Grand Wagoner
CHARACTERISTICS AND VALUE
The Grand Wagoner is expensive. The luxury SUV starts at $ 89,995, including the destination charge. But there is a reason for this very high starting price. In addition to packing standard four-wheel drive, the Grand Wagoneer includes standard features such as premium leather upholstery, two large center touch screens, a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system, an adaptive air suspension and a complete set of advanced driver aids. The optional features are just as impressive.
The Cadillac Escalade has a much lower starting price of $ 77,990, though it doesn’t include any of the above features as standard equipment, as well as a similar audio system. Comparable features, with the exception of dual-center touch screens, are available in higher finish levels. The starting prices for Escalade’s highest trim levels, Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum, are just a few thousand less than the highest-end Grand Wagoneer Series III that offers more features.
The value is pretty evenly matched, but there’s one feature that makes you tip the scales: Cadillac’s Super Cruise system. This is a trick-free driving system that can be used on many highways to help reduce the monotony of long journeys. Jeep does not currently offer a driver assistance system comparable to the Super Cruise.
Winner: Climbing
LOADING AND TRAILING
Large SUVs are expected to offer plenty of cargo space and the Grand Wagon does not disappoint. Behind the third row is 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space and 70.9 cubic feet with the third row folded. With the second and third rows folded, the Grand Wagon reaches a maximum of 94.2 cubic feet. Its maximum towing capacity is £ 9,850 when well equipped, enough to pull a major travel trailer or toy transport.
The Cadillac Escalade publishes similar load numbers for typical use. There are 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row and 72.9 cubic feet behind the second. But drop the back two rows and the Escalade can hold 121 cubic feet of top material. There’s also the longer Escalade ESV model, which is even more spacious. Jeep plans to offer an extended-length Grand Wagoner L, but it won’t be out until the 2023 model year.
The Cadillac does not have a maximum towing capacity (£ 8,200 in the correct configuration), but it is generally the most versatile carrier.
Winner: Climbing
PAST AND COMFORT
The latest Cadillac Escalade does an excellent job of eliminating bumps and keeping the ride comfortable on rough terrain. The Grand Wagoner is not that impressive. It handles small bumps well, but larger ones and uneven pavement can create some awkward body movements that could confuse passengers.
But Jeep is fighting for seats again. All three rows offer luxury seating, and the front seats include heating, ventilation and massage features as standard. The front seats of the Escalade are quite nice, but the rear passengers do not receive the same levels of comfort as in the Grand Wagoner.
Winner: Draw
Edmunds says: Both models are stunning luxury SUVs, and choosing one or the other is not an easy choice. But overall, we believe the Escalade is the best buy considering its more flexible pricing, increased load capacity, and unique hands-free driving system.
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This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds.
Michael Cantu is an Edmunds contributor. Follow Michael on Instagram.
Michael Cantu, The Associated Press