2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 presented itself with a polished exterior, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels and a sleek Stellar Black paint job. Inside, the Jet Black semi-aniline premium leather interior exuded a sense of understated luxury, reminiscent of a formal black-tie event. However, the XT6's design was somewhat conservative, with towering front running lights and taillights that echoed GMC's styling, giving it a tall and narrow appearance. Despite its premium materials and sophisticated driving assistance technology, the interior felt more akin to a standard GM crossover, lacking the distinctive luxury expected at its price point.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus RX maintained a modern and sporty design, with sharp character lines and angular features that stopped just short of excessiveness. The RX's exterior was eye-catching, even in the subtle Nebula Gray Pearl paint of the RX 350 F Sport model. The F Sport package added performance-oriented aesthetics, including 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing its athletic appeal. Inside, the RX continued its luxury theme, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the centre stack felt dated, and the driving position required multiple adjustments for comfort.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered two engine options: a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 horsepower. The V6, available in Premium Luxury and Sport trims, provided sufficient power but lacked the turbocharged punch of its competitors. The XT6's adaptive-damping suspension and 20-inch wheels contributed to a smooth ride, but the driving experience leaned more towards serenity than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 11.5 L/100 km combined, with our test returning 12.0 L/100 km.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower, while the RX 450h hybrid added electric motors for a combined 308 horsepower. Despite the F Sport designation, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lacklustre engine note and hesitant acceleration. The adaptive variable suspension and Sport+ mode failed to deliver significant changes in driving dynamics. However, the RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, making it a pleasant companion for long drives. Fuel economy for the RX 350 was 10.8 L/100 km combined, with the hybrid achieving 7.9 L/100 km.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6's interior space was less generous than expected, with a narrow feel due to its design. The front seats were comfortable, but the third row was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was limited, with 357 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,229 litres with seats folded. Storage compartments were small and not easily accessible.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in the two-row model, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L model had limited cargo space, with only 210 litres behind the third row. With seats folded, cargo capacity reached 1,657 litres. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable cup holder, but the high load-in height was a drawback.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 featured advanced technologies like a digital rearview mirror and Super Cruise, but lacked digital gauges and had an outdated 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but usability issues persisted with touch-sensing buttons and steering wheel controls. The Bose audio system was a highlight, but the head-up display was unimpressive.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available. The screen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, and the touchpad was hypersensitive and difficult to use. Despite these challenges, the RX offered a range of tech features, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a premium audio system. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity and personalization options.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Super Cruise, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, demonstrating its strong safety credentials.

The 2022 Lexus RX came standard with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, but missed the "plus" designation due to its headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.