2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Cadillac XT6

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity kept it in the lineup. The GLS, with its three rows and plush interior, became a family-friendly alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. The transition from "GL" to "GLS" during its second generation marked a shift towards a more refined design. The 2021 model featured softened angles and a sleek appearance, with a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen. Available in GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, it offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and luxury.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its design, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5. Available in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, the XT6 Sport model featured a distinctive grille with darkened accents and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Its sharp lines and slim LED headlights contributed to its premium look. The XT6 offered seven paint colors, with most requiring an additional charge. Inside, the XT6's cabin mirrored the XT5's design, with three color options and the option to upgrade to semi-aniline leather upholstery through the Platinum Package. While the dashboard was less premium than the seats, it remained attractive. The XT6's interior was functional, though some elements like stitching and button design appeared less upscale. Overall, the XT6 presented a stylish and comfortable environment, albeit with some room for improvement compared to competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. All engines included Mercedes’ EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system, adding an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed. The AMG GLS 63 could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 174 mph. Its adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes provided a dynamic driving experience, while E-Active Body Control ensured a smooth ride.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The same engine was standard in the XT6 Premium Luxury trim, while the base XT6 Luxury model featured a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The XT6 offered standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on Luxury and Premium Luxury models, and standard on the Sport trim. Despite its power, the XT6 Sport felt heavy, affecting its driving dynamics. Weighing 4,690 pounds, it was the heaviest XT6 model, impacting its agility. The XT6's fuel economy was competitive, with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine achieving 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined with AWD. The V6 engine offered similar figures, with slight variations depending on the drivetrain. The Smart Towing package added towing capabilities to midgrade and higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across its three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain’s chairs. The third row, while less spacious, accommodated full-size adults comfortably. The GLS offered more cargo space behind the third row than the BMW X7, with 17.4 cubic feet expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded. Total cargo space reached 87.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The GLS featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a combination cup-holder/wireless-charging pad.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 catered to its target audience with comfortable seating, though it fell short compared to competitors like the Acura MDX. Standard seating for seven could be upgraded to captain’s chairs in the second row. Adults could fit in the third row, a feature that had become more common in midsize SUVs. However, the XT6 offered less space in all three rows compared to rivals. Interior storage was limited, with front-row riders struggling to find convenient places for small items. The wireless phone charger, while standard, was a deep-pocket type that restricted access to the phone while charging. The XT6 excelled in cargo space, with a standard power liftgate and power-folding third-row seats. The cargo load floor was high, but typical for the class, and space behind the third row was limited.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a central trackpad and a massive touch screen. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The MBUX voice-control system responded to commands like “Find me a gas station,” enhancing convenience. The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While there was a learning curve, the system offered a comprehensive technological experience.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a range of standard features, including tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a WiFi hot spot and six USB ports. Buyers could upgrade to a 14-speaker Bose audio system, navigation, and enhanced wireless charging. The infotainment screen, while functional, was smaller than competitors, affecting usability. The available packages added features like an air ionizer and heated/ventilated seats.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, and lane-keep assist. Premium Luxury and Sport models added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Assist Package included adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS.