2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade showcased a design heavily influenced by the Escala concept, particularly evident in its front fascia. However, from the side and rear, it retained a familiar look, featuring crisp creases and tall OLED taillights. The Escalade sat on standard 22-inch wheels for the first time, offering a commanding presence. Pricing started at just over $90,000 Canadian for the base Luxury trim, with higher trims like the Premium Luxury and Sport priced at $99,898. The Premium Luxury Platinum and Sport Platinum trims were available for $118,398, with an additional $3,500 for the extended-length Escalade ESV. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, came equipped with numerous features, including a 36-speaker AKG sound system and a Driver Assist Tech Package, bringing its price to $119,988 Canadian.

Inside, the Escalade's cabin was a step above its predecessors, offering various leather and wood trim options. The Premium Luxury test vehicle featured Parchment leather with Tamo Ash wood, though the light-coloured carpets showed signs of wear. Despite the high price tag, some interior elements, like the plastic lower dashboard, were less impressive. Overall, the Escalade's interior was luxurious, with Platinum models offering semi-aniline leather and a simulated suede headliner.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5. The XT6 Sport trim featured a distinct grille with darkened accents and rode on 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The sharp lines and slim LED headlights contributed to its premium appearance. The XT6 was available in eight paint colours, with most requiring an additional surcharge. The interior, similar to the XT5, offered four colour options and could be upgraded with the Platinum Package for semi-aniline leather upholstery and a microsuede headliner.

While the XT6's seats were comfortable, they fell short compared to competitors like the Acura MDX. The third row could accommodate adults, but overall interior space was less generous than rivals. Small-item storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was inconveniently designed. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a standard power liftgate. Despite a high cargo load floor, the XT6 offered ample storage for its class.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade offered a choice between a standard 6.2-litre V8 engine and a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six-cylinder engine. The V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering impressive acceleration. It featured Dynamic Fuel Management technology for improved fuel efficiency, achieving 14.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The turbo-diesel engine, with 277 horsepower and the same torque as the V8, offered better fuel economy at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined.

The Escalade's ride and handling were significantly improved, thanks to a new independent rear suspension and Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 adaptive dampers. The 4-Corner Air Ride suspension further enhanced comfort, minimizing unwanted motions. The Escalade was agile for its size, though the brake pedal could have offered better modulation. It excelled on highways, providing a quiet and smooth ride.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The V6 provided sufficient power, and the transmission shifted smoothly. The XT6 came with standard all-wheel drive in Canada.

However, the XT6's driving dynamics were less impressive. The Sport model felt heavy, affecting its agility, especially in tight spaces and on winding roads. Competitors like the Toyota Highlander and Acura MDX offered better weight distribution. The XT6's fuel economy was competitive, with the V6 achieving 13.1 L/100 km in the city and 11.5 combined.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade boasted a larger and more functional cabin, thanks to its independent rear suspension and extended wheelbase. Front-seat occupants enjoyed comfortable, power-adjustable seats with available ventilation and massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs were heated and offered improved leg support. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, a significant improvement over previous models.

Cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row, expandable to 3,426 litres with all seats folded. The extended-length Escalade ESV offered even more space, with up to 4,044 litres of cargo volume.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 provided seating for seven, with optional captain's chairs in the second row. While adults could fit in the third row, the XT6 offered less interior space than competitors. Small-item storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was inconveniently designed. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a standard power liftgate. Despite a high cargo load floor, the XT6 offered ample storage for its class.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade featured a cutting-edge 38-inch curved OLED display, offering high pixel density and vibrant colours. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some user experience improvements were needed. The AR navigation system was impressive, and the 19-speaker AKG sound system was standard, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Reference system.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a decent array of standard tech features, including an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. Buyers could upgrade to a 14-speaker Bose audio system and additional features like navigation and wireless charging.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assistance. The Escalade's size contributed to its safety, though some false alarms occurred during testing.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a robust set of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Premium Luxury and Sport models added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS.