2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its design, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5 crossovers. The XT6 Sport model, in particular, featured a distinctively styled grille with darkened accents, 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and slim all-LED headlights, giving it a premium and unmistakably Cadillac appearance. The interior mirrored the XT5's design but was slightly larger, offering four colour options and luxurious seating, especially with the optional Platinum Package. However, the dashboard's design was less premium, with some elements appearing cheaper, though the steering wheel and console surfaces felt pleasant to the touch.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design reminiscent of its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and LED headlights being the main distinguishing features. Inside, the cabin was crafted with care, offering a quiet and refined environment. The GX's interior was comfortable, with physical controls and a mix of old-school switchgear. However, the placement of some controls was confusing, and the third-row seat was cramped and challenging to access. The GX's design was tall and narrow, making it easy to maneuver, but the side-swinging tailgate and limited cargo space were drawbacks.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was equipped with 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 had a 2.0L turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower. The XT6's V6 engine provided sufficient power, but the SUV'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 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. Despite its power, the GX's performance was hindered by its weight and high drag coefficient, resulting in a fuel consumption estimate of 14.5 L/100 km combined. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved stability, but the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy. The GX excelled in off-road capabilities, with a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered seating for seven, with the option for captain's chairs in the second row. While adults could fit in the third row, the XT6 had less interior space compared to competitors. The SUV's cargo space was a highlight, with power-folding third-row seats and a power liftgate, though the load floor was high. Interior storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was not easily accessible.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and comfortable seating, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. The GX's cargo space was limited, with a high load floor and a side-swinging tailgate that made loading challenging. The Black Line Special Edition offered NuLuxe upholstery and additional comfort features, but the narrow rear door openings and limited cargo space were drawbacks.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. While the tech was suitable, the screen size was smaller than competitors, and the interface could be crowded. Optional upgrades included a 14-speaker Bose audio system and navigation.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, with a dual-screen view for navigation and radio. The GX also offered a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. However, the placement of stereo controls was confusing, and the system lacked some modern features found in competitors.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS. However, the lane-keep assist system was not always reliable.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included the Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. While some modern safety technologies were absent, the GX's lack of intrusive driving aids contributed to a favourable driving experience.