Jeep Grand Wagoneeer compares to Cadillac Escalade
Jeep has come out with a new three-row large SUV, the Grand Wagoneer. It dusts off a nameplate not used since the early 1990s and stands as the brand’s most expensive and luxurious model.
Of course, there’s another American SUV that plies these same gilded halls: the Cadillac Escalade. Since its recent redesign, the Escalade has been Edmunds’ top-ranked large luxury SUV. Edmunds’ experts compare these rivals to find out.
Power and fuel economy
The Grand Wagoneer offers two engine choices: the base 6.4-liter V8 engine that produces 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque and an optional turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder that pumps out 510 hp and 500 lb-ft. In Edmunds’ testing, the V8 was good enough to hustle the Grand Wagoneer from 0 to 60 mph in just
5.7 seconds.
That’s a full second quicker than the Escalade, which comes with a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft. Cadillac doesn’t offer a more powerful engine upgrade, though there is an available turbocharged six-cylinder diesel that churns out 277 hp and 460 lb-ft.
This diesel is the fuel economy champ of the contest, earning an impressive Environmental Protection Agency-estimated 23 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Otherwise, you’re looking at 15-17 mpg for the Grand Wagoneer or 16 mpg for the V8-powered Escalade.
The superior fuel economy of the Escalade’s available diesel engine is appealing, but buyers of big SUVS typically desire big-time power.
Winner: Grand Wagoneer
Features and value
The Grand Wagoneer starts at $89,995, including destination charge. Besides packing standard four-wheel drive, the Grand Wagoneer comes loaded with standard features such as premium leather upholstery, two large center touchscreens, a 19-speaker Mcintosh audio system, an adaptive air suspension and a full suite of advanced driver aids.
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 besides a similar audio system. Comparable features, with the exception of the dual center touchscreens, are available on higher trim levels.
Winner: Escalade
Cargo and towing
Large SUVS are expected to offer a lot of cargo space, and the Grand Wagoneer doesn’t disappoint. Behind the third row, you’ll find 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space and 70.9 cubic feet with the third row folded down. With the second and third rows folded, the Grand Wagoneer maxes out at 94.2 cubic feet. Its maximum towing capacity is a stout 9,850 pounds when properly equipped — enough to pull a sizable travel trailer or toy hauler.
The Cadillac Escalade posts similar cargo numbers for typical use. There are 25.5 cubes behind the third row and 72.9 cubic feet behind the second. But drop both rear rows and the Escalade can hold a superior 121 cubic feet of stuff.
Winner: Escalade
Ride and comfort
The latest Cadillac Escalade does an excellent job ironing out bumps and keeping the ride comfortable over rough pavement. The Grand Wagoneerhandles smaller bumps well, but uneven pavement can create some uncomfortable body motions that could jostle passengers.
The Escalade’s front seats are pretty nice, but rear passengers aren’t treated to the same levels of comfort as they are in the Grand Wagoneer. Winner: Tie
Edmunds Says: Both models are impressive luxury SUVS, and picking one or the other isn’t an easy choice. But overall we think the Escalade is the better buy considering its more flexible pricing, greater cargo capacity and exclusive hands-free driving system.