2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe

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 luxury, reminiscent of a formal black-tie event. However, despite its sophisticated appearance, the XT6's design was somewhat conservative, with towering front running lights and taillights that mirrored those of GMC models. The overall aesthetic was in line with Cadillac's traditionally tailored image, but it lacked the distinctiveness that might set it apart from competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe maintained a more conservative exterior design compared to some of Hyundai's other models. While it didn't boast standout looks, it was still an attractive SUV. The Santa Fe's styling remained consistent with the previous model year, featuring a wide grille and thin LED headlights that provided a unique touch. The interior of the Ultimate Calligraphy trim was dark and monotone, but the Nappa leather seats offered comfort and quality. The cabin's high-quality materials and features like heated and cooled front seats added to the overall appeal, though a lighter interior colour might have provided more visual contrast.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered two engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. For those seeking more power, the Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. While the V6 provided sufficient power, it lacked the turbocharged excitement found in some competitors. The XT6's adaptive-damping performance 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 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test vehicle achieving 12.0 L/100 km.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a choice between a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine producing 191 horsepower and a turbocharged version delivering 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged engine, available in the Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, provided a significant performance boost, with immediate acceleration and no noticeable turbo lag. The Santa Fe's handling was smooth, with minimal body lean during cornering. The turbocharged model could tow up to 1,587 kilograms, making it a versatile choice for those needing towing capabilities. Overall, the Santa Fe's performance was impressive for its price point, offering a balance of power, ride comfort, and handling.

Inside the 2022 Cadillac XT6, the cabin felt narrower than expected, with a driving position that mirrored its tall and narrow exterior. The front seats, wrapped in optional semi-aniline leather, were comfortable but lacked the range of adjustments and massage functions found in some rivals. The second-row captain's chairs provided good legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited, with 357 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,229 litres with the seats folded down. Storage compartments were small and not easily accessible.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, with its two-row configuration, offered ample rear-seat legroom and competitive cargo space. The rear seats provided 1,060 millimetres of legroom, and the cargo area offered 1,032 litres of space, expanding to 2,041 litres with the seats folded. The Santa Fe's interior featured comfortable seating, with an eight-way power driver's seat and heated front seats as standard. Higher trims included additional features like ventilated front seats, a hands-free smart liftgate, and a head-up display. The panoramic sunroof added to the cabin's airy feel, though the wide centre console slightly reduced driver leg space.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 featured a mix of advanced technology and outdated elements. While it offered a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision system, and Super Cruise hands-free driving-assistance system, it lacked digital gauges and had an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The infotainment system was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the use of touch-sensing buttons and counterintuitive controls detracted from the experience. The available Bose Performance Series audio system provided excellent sound quality, but the head-up display was less impressive.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe excelled in in-vehicle technology, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring navigation, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system in higher trims. The digital instrument cluster in the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy trims offered clear graphics and versatility. While the voice-recognition system had mixed results, the infotainment system's customization options were impressive for a mass-market brand. The Santa Fe's technology package provided a comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

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 inconsistent lane-keeping and abrupt braking. The XT6 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring excellent crash protection.

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe also offered a robust set of safety features, including forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included Highway Driving Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The Santa Fe received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers.