2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its design, sharing styling cues with its XT4 and XT5 siblings. The XT6 Sport model, in particular, showcased a traditionally styled grille with darkened accents, enhancing its premium appeal. It rode on 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, which complemented its sharp lines and slim all-LED headlights. The interior mirrored the XT5's design but offered more space, featuring four colour options and the possibility of upgrading to semi-aniline leather upholstery with the Platinum Package. While the seats were luxurious, the dashboard area was less premium, with some cheaper-looking elements.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's design was more utilitarian, blending in with other compact crossovers. It had a few distinguishing features, like its grille and chromed plastic accents, but overall, it wasn't a vehicle chosen for its exterior aesthetics. The CR-V was available in seven colours, though many were shades of grey, black, or white. Inside, it offered a modern look with angular seats and a choice of materials depending on the trim. While not as distinctive as some competitors, the CR-V's design focused on practicality and comfort.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine was also standard in the Premium Luxury trim, while the base Luxury model featured a 2.0L turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower. The V6 provided smooth acceleration, but the XT6's weight distribution affected its driving dynamics, making it feel less agile compared to competitors. Fuel economy for the V6 was 13.1 L/100 km in the city and 9.5 on the highway.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, regardless of trim, came with a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about 8 seconds, which was competitive for its class. The CR-V's continuously variable transmission (CVT) offered smooth but less engaging driving. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The CR-V's suspension and handling were decent, providing a comfortable ride without surprises.

The Cadillac XT6 offered seating for seven, with the option for captain's chairs in the second row on higher trims. Adults could fit in the third row, but the XT6 had less room compared to some competitors. Interior storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was not easily accessible. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a power liftgate, making it practical for carrying larger loads.

The Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, comfortably seating five and offering ample cargo space. It had over 100 litres more interior volume than the Toyota RAV4, with 1,065 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Depending on the trim, the CR-V featured a manual, power, or hands-free power tailgate. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional gear.

The Cadillac XT6 featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. Standard features included tri-zone climate control and an eight-speaker Bose audio system, with options for a 14-speaker system and other upgrades. While the tech was adequate, the infotainment screen was smaller than some competitors.

The Honda CR-V came with a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Audio systems varied by trim, with the Touring trim featuring a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger. Navigation was available on higher trims.

The Cadillac XT6 was equipped with numerous standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a high-definition rearview camera. Premium trims 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.

The Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It featured the Honda Sensing system, which included forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control as standard across all trims. The only feature not standard on the base trim was blind-spot monitoring.