2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Cadillac XT6

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. The vehicle's design, while attractive, leaned towards a conservative aesthetic, with towering front running lights and simple vertical taillights that aligned with Cadillac's traditional styling. Despite its premium materials and sophisticated driving assistance technology, the XT6's interior design felt more akin to a standard GM crossover, lacking the distinctive flair expected in a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more subtle and refined appearance, especially in its base GLS 450 form. The vehicle avoided the flashy chrome and gaudy grilles seen in some competitors, opting for a more understated elegance. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions provided options for those seeking more visual drama, with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS maintained a luxurious feel with its leather upholstery, panoramic roof, and ambient lighting, complemented by intricate speaker grilles and rugged rectangular air vents. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated, enhancing the overall sophistication of the interior.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a choice of engines, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada, offered less power than some competitors. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. While the V6 provided sufficient power and a pleasant engine note, it lacked the turbocharged punch found in some rivals. The XT6's adaptive-damping performance suspension and 20-inch wheels contributed to a smooth ride, but the driving experience leaned more towards comfort than excitement. Fuel economy was rated at 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test vehicle achieving 12.0 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available from the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup provided ample power and smooth performance, with the inline-six offering better balance and refinement than a V6. The GLS's air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height and impact absorption, though our test vehicle exhibited excessive body motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 boasted a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, slightly less than some competitors but still sufficient for most needs.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6's interior space was somewhat limited, with a tall and narrow design that translated into a less roomy cabin than expected. The front seats were comfortable and offered heating and ventilation, but lacked the range of adjustment and massage functions found in some rivals. The second-row captain's chairs provided decent legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Cargo space was modest, with 357 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,229 litres with all seats folded. Storage compartments were limited and not easily accessible.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more spacious interior, with a standard seven-seat configuration and an optional six-seat version with captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easier access to the third row, and the long wheelbase provided excellent legroom. Cargo space was competitive, with 355 litres behind the third row and up to 2,400 litres with all seats folded. The GLS featured one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, with the air suspension lowering for easier loading. However, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being difficult to reach and the centre console grab handles lacking a clear purpose.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered a mix of advanced features and outdated technology. While it included a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision system, and Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance, it lacked digital gauges and had a smaller 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and excellent voice recognition, but some controls were counterintuitive. The Bose Performance Series audio system provided great sound, but the head-up display was less impressive than those in other GM vehicles.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive and difficult to use. The GLS also included augmented-reality navigation, though the system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 came 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 highway driving on approved roads. However, it had limitations, such as difficulty with lane markings and abrupt braking. The XT6 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring strong crash protection.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of standard safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems were available as options. The GLS included unique features like Crosswind Assist and Pre Safe, which prepared the vehicle for a potential collision. However, crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.