2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Cadillac XT6

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its design, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5 crossovers. Available in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, the XT6 Sport model stood out with its darkened accent pieces on the grille and lower bumper, complemented by 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The sharp lines and slim all-LED headlights added to its premium appeal. Inside, the XT6 mirrored the XT5's interior but offered more space, with four colour options and the option for semi-aniline leather upholstery through the Platinum Package. While the seats were luxurious, the dashboard area, though attractive, had some cheaper-looking elements.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac XT6 Premium Luxury model presented a more conservative design, with polished 20-inch alloy wheels and a Jet Black semi-aniline leather interior. The exterior proportions conveyed a tailored image, though the front and rear lighting designs were less distinctive. The interior, while rich in materials, lacked the luxury feel expected at its price point, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen that felt dated. Despite its sophisticated driving assistance technology, the interior layout and controls were reminiscent of less expensive GM models, making it feel less special.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 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 ample power, but the XT6 Sport's weight distribution affected its driving dynamics, making it feel heavy and 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 2022 Cadillac XT6 continued with the same engine options, with the 3.6-litre V6 available in Premium Luxury and Sport trims. The V6 delivered 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque, but lacked the turbocharged punch found in some rivals. The test vehicle offered FWD and AWD modes, with adaptive-damping suspension enhancing its athleticism. Despite its capabilities, the XT6's driving experience leaned towards comfort rather than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 11.5 L/100 km combined, with the test vehicle achieving 12.0 L/100 km.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered seating for seven, with the option for captain’s chairs in the second row on Sport and Premium Luxury trims. While adults could fit in the third row, the XT6 had less room compared to competitors. Interior storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger design was not user-friendly. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a high cargo load floor typical of the class.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6's interior felt narrower, with comfortable front seats but limited adjustment options. The second-row captain’s chairs provided good legroom, but the third row was cramped for adults. Storage space was decent but unremarkable, with small cubbies and difficult-to-access trays. Cargo space behind the third row was limited, but power-folding seats expanded the area to 1,200 litres, with a maximum volume of 2,229 litres.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. While the tech was suitable, the screen size was smaller than competitors. Standard features included tri-zone climate control and an eight-speaker Bose audio system, with upgrades available for a 14-speaker system and additional comfort features.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered advanced features like a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision, and Super Cruise, but lacked digital gauges and had a small head-up display. The 8-inch touchscreen, though intuitive, was smaller than rivals. The infotainment system included wireless connectivity and natural voice recognition, but some controls were counterintuitive. The available Bose audio system and digital rear camera were highlights, but the head-up display was less impressive.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced braking features. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by IIHS.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 included standard safety features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist, with Super Cruise as a standout feature. While Super Cruise impressed with its capabilities, it had limitations in certain conditions. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and five-star ratings from NHTSA, ensuring strong crash protection.