2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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. The overall design of the XT6 was conservative, with towering front running lights and taillights reminiscent of GMC's design, which contributed to a somewhat narrow and tall appearance. Despite its elegant materials and sophisticated driving assistance technology, the interior layout and controls felt more akin to a standard GM crossover, lacking the distinctiveness expected in a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, offered a more athletic and modern aesthetic. The interior was a blend of high-end materials and advanced technology, featuring dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design. The cabin was adorned with Nappa premium leather and ambient lighting, creating a luxurious atmosphere. While the GLE Coupe's design was complex, it maintained a facade of simplicity, with a learning curve that was manageable over time.

The Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in its base model, producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The XT6 offered a choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive modes, with Tour and Sport driving modes available. While the V6 engine provided sufficient power, the driving experience leaned towards comfort rather than excitement. The XT6's fuel economy was rated at 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test returning 12.0 L/100 km.

The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe boasted a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, generating 429 hp and 384 pound-feet of torque. The engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. The GLE Coupe's performance was further elevated by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. With multiple driving modes and an adaptive damping control air suspension, the GLE Coupe delivered a dynamic and engaging driving experience. Our test vehicle achieved a fuel consumption of 12.7 L/100 km, slightly above the official rating of 12.5 L/100 km.

The Cadillac XT6, a three-row SUV, offered comfortable power-adjustable front seats with optional semi-aniline leather, but lacked massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs provided decent legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped for adults. The XT6's cargo space was limited, with 357 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,229 litres with seats folded. Storage compartments were modest, and access to some areas was challenging.

The Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though four was more comfortable. The front seats were sport-bolstered and equipped with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat offered ample legroom, and the cargo hold provided 655 litres, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. The GLE Coupe featured additional comfort upgrades, including a four-zone climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The Cadillac XT6 featured a mix of advanced and outdated technology. It offered a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision system, and Super Cruise hands-free driving-assistance system. However, it lacked digital gauges, and the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system was smaller than competitors. The system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The intuitive voice recognition technology was a highlight, but some usability issues persisted, such as touch-sensing buttons and illegible markings.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. It included navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system.

The Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The standout feature was the Super Cruise system, which allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways. However, it had limitations in certain conditions. The XT6 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered a range of safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional systems, including Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, providing a seamless driving experience. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings.