If you have a large family, it’s definitely worth the upgrade from a GMC Yukon to a GMC Yukon XL. It comes with increased cargo capacity and extra legroom, so there’s plenty of space for activities in the backseat. A third row that’s suitable for adults is hard to find in an SUV, but the Yukon XL’s got this covered. Despite this, some shoppers are passing up the Yukon XL for the Cadillac Escalade ESV.

Like the Yukon XL, it also has massive interior dimensions, but it also comes with a few more luxurious elements. However, there is one big factor that may scare shoppers away from the Escalade ESV’s charms.

How expensive is the Cadillac Escalade ESV?

The Cadillac Escalade ESV starts at around $76,000. You can get the Sport trim for $10,000 more, which adds on more safety features plus a rear-seat infotainment system for the passengers. If you want your Escalade ESV to be fully loaded, it will cost around $93,000.

In comparison, the GMC Yukon XL is far cheaper. The base model starts at about $50,000 and there are plenty of middle-ground options for around $60,000. The top-of-the-line Denali trim costs $71,000, but you’ll still have to pay extra for certain packages.

Comparing cargo areas

Both vehicles are excellent if you need to carry a lot of cargo, according to CarFax. The GMC Yukon XL has almost 122 cubic feet of space, while the Escalade ESV has 121 cubic feet of luggage capacity. Both SUVs can also tow over 8,000 pounds.

If you want to wait for the newest models, both received even more cargo space for 2021. With all the seats folded down, the Escalade ESV has nearly 143 cubic feet of space. The 2021 Yukon XL offers 145 cubic feet of space.

Excellent technology offerings

The base Cadillac Escalade ESV comes with smartphone integration, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless charging pad, and a whopping 16-speaker stereo system. It also comes with a power liftgate, which will make it even easier to utilize the ESV’s expansive cargo hold. Safety features include a surround-view camera, parking sensors, LED headlights, and automatic parking.

The GMC Yukon XL comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot and you can sync your smartphone with the infotainment system. However, its touchscreen is smaller than the one inside the Cadillac ESV. It also doesn’t come with any standard safety features, so you’ll have to purchase a higher trim for those.

The cons of handling these large vehicles

The sheer size of both the Cadillac Escalade ESV and the GMC Yukon XL make them both difficult to drive or park. Edmunds reported that the ride quality of the ESV is quite stiff compared to other big SUVs. They also noted that it has a high load floor height.

The Yukon XL has a smoother ride, but its engine doesn’t always provide the best throttle response. However, if you get a Denali trim, you may experience a harsher drive. Still, it has a good suspension system and the brakes don’t require too much stopping distance.

Is the Cadillac Escalade ESV worth it?

The Cadillac Escalade ESV is a good luxury SUV that’s already pre-loaded with many useful features. The GMC Yukon XL Denali has a bunch of fun extras, but buying this trim defeats the perk of affordability. Additionally, the ESV still has features you can’t find in the Yukon XL, like a surround-view camera.

Car and Driver also pointed out that the Yukon XL’s interior as not as on par with GMC’s other upscale models. For someone who wants the most luxurious option, the Cadillac Escalade ESV is the better pick.