2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a sleek two-box design with a long hood and a distinctive grille adorned with the Genesis flying "G" badge. The SUV's exterior was marked by elegant touches like the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array and large aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a minimalist dashboard, a 14.5-inch high-definition display, and high-quality materials like real wood and leather, creating a sophisticated and spacious cabin.

In contrast, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 presented a sophisticated look that aligned with Cadillac's established design language, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5. The XT6 Sport trim featured darkened accents and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, giving it a premium appearance. The interior, while comfortable with options for semi-aniline leather and a microsuede headliner, was less plush compared to some competitors. The dashboard design was straightforward, with some elements appearing less premium, but the overall cabin was functional and suitable for a luxury SUV.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's ride was enhanced by features like electronically controlled suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential on the 3.5T Prestige model. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was estimated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The XT6 also offered a 2.0-litre turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower for the base model. All-wheel drive was standard in Canada. The XT6's driving dynamics were less impressive, with a weighty feel that affected handling. Fuel economy for the V6 was 13.1 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the turbo-four was slightly more efficient at 11.2 L/100 km city and 9.0 highway.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and ergonomic design. The centre console housed a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capability. The second row was spacious, with power-adjustable seats and climate control, while the third row, available on 3.5T models, offered power-folding seats. The GV80's interior was designed for comfort and luxury, with features like power rear-door closure and a standard sunroof.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 provided seating for seven, with the option for captain's chairs in the second row on higher trims. The third row was adult-friendly, though the XT6 offered less space compared to some competitors. Interior storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was not easily accessible. The XT6 excelled in cargo space, with a power liftgate and power-folding third-row seats, though the cargo load floor was high, and space behind the third row was limited.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a cutting-edge infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable profiles. Additional features included a head-up display, a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, and a premium Lexicon audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with standard tri-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The XT6 offered a range of upgrades, including a 14-speaker Bose audio system, navigation, and heated/ventilated seats. While the tech was adequate, the infotainment screen was smaller and less advanced compared to some rivals.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with 10 airbags, advanced driver assistance features, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered Highway Driving Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist for added convenience and safety.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a high-definition rearview camera. The XT6's lane-keep assist system was less reliable, but buyers could opt for additional safety packages. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.