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For anyone considering the purchase of a new luxury SUV with serious size and capability, the 2022 Cadillac Escalade and the 2022 Lincoln Navigator are worthy contenders. However, to decide between the two beefy yet stylish SUVs, it will be helpful to see a comparison of features and capabilities.

Depending on the trim level you choose, the Cadillac Escalade and the Lincoln Navigator are more expensive than other models. You can buy an Escalade for $77,795 to $110,095. Meanwhile, the Navigator will set you back $77,635 to $109,680. The latter may be slightly cheaper, but here are four reasons you should choose the Cadillac Escalade.

1. The Cadillac Escalade has more cargo space

A white 2021 Cadillac Escalade full-size luxury SUV parked in the desert near a luxury home
2021 Cadillac Escalade | Cadillac

The most basic comparison data to consider is the space difference, cargo and dimensionally, between the Escalade and the Navigator. U.S. News lists the specifics that suggest the 2022 Cadillac Escalade to be the bigger and more spacious choice. The Escalade’s front headroom, front leg, room, and front shoulder room edge out the Navigator with measurements of 42.3, 44.5, and 65.5 cubic feet, respectively. The Navigator’s specs for these are 41.8, 43.9, and 65.2 cubic feet.

When you’re buying a large SUV, cargo space will matter. The Cadillac Escalade comes out ahead here, too. Cargo volume measurements from seats one, two, and three are 121, 72.9, and 25.5 cubic feet. The Lincoln Navigator’s comparison measurements are much smaller at 103.4, 57.5, and 20.9 cubic feet.

2. The Escalade can tow more weight

When comparing the 2022 Cadillac Escalade with the 2022 Lincoln Navigator, you’ll notice the clear victor in towing capacity. When you equip your Navigator with the heavy-duty towing package, it will tow up to 8,300 pounds, according to Consumer Reports. But without paying for the extra package, it will only pull 6,200 pounds. The Consumer Reports road test showed the Escalade could handle 7,500 pounds, with equipment potential to handle upwards of 8,000 pounds. So, you can pull more with less going with the Escalade.

3. More standard luxury features

When going with luxury, you’ll look for specific amenities and extras. If you want heated front and rear seats, a hands-free tailgate, wireless phone charging, and power driver and passenger seats, you’ll get them as standard with the 2022 Cadillac Escalade’s entry-level Luxury trim. The base model Navigator offers some of the same standard equipment. 

However, if you want 24-way power-adjustable front seats, you’ll pay extra to upgrade to a Reserve trim or add the Luxury package. Additionally, if you want more posh amenities, the Escalade offers a broader selection of add-on packages and upgrades, catering to your need for more luxury, more performance, or more trailering capacity.

4. The Cadillac Escalade has a smaller turning diameter

If you need a fourth reason to choose the 2022 Cadillac Escalade over the 2022 Lincoln Navigator, consider ease of driving. The CR team found the bigger Escalade easier to handle due to its smaller turning radius and diameter. The turn radius for the Escalade is 19.85 feet, which is much smaller than the Navigator’s, measured at 20.5 to 21.65 feet. Additionally, performance and handling shouldn’t be cumbersome when driving any large SUV. The CR team’s evaluation points to the Escalade as a much smoother and easier to operate choice.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade and the 2022 Lincoln Navigator are considered dominating contenders in the large, luxury SUV space. But the Escalade may be the best choice in this and other comparisons. Take this list with you for your test drives to help you decide.

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