Lincoln Nautilus vs Cadillac XT6

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 presented a conservatively tailored image, with its polished 20-inch alloy wheels and Stellar Black paint. The Jet Black semi-aniline premium leather interior added a touch of luxury, though the overall design was somewhat bland and inoffensive. The XT6's towering front running lights and vertical taillights gave it a tall and narrow appearance, which was reflected in its interior space. Despite its premium materials and sophisticated driving assistance technology, the XT6's interior design and features felt more akin to a standard GM crossover, lacking the distinctiveness expected in a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Nautilus offered a more balanced and characterful design. Its exterior styling was neither awkward nor plain, and the Lincoln Embrace lighting sequence added a touch of elegance. Inside, the Nautilus featured light grey premium leather upholstery, with other colour options available. While the interior was decadent in many ways, some elements like the centre console design and chrome-plated plastic pieces appeared less premium. The Nautilus Reserve model in Canada started at $59,800, with options like the Ultra Comfort 22-way power-adjustable front seats enhancing its appeal for long drives.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 came with a choice of engines, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder 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 offered 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 punch found in some competitors. The XT6's adaptive-damping performance suspension and 20-inch wheels contributed to its athletic handling, though it leaned more towards a serene driving experience. 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 2022 Lincoln Nautilus offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. For an additional $4,000, buyers could opt for a twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The Nautilus featured Comfort, Normal, and Sport driving modes, with the adaptive suspension adjusting accordingly. The twin-turbo V6 delivered impressive performance, and the Nautilus excelled as a quiet and comfortable road-tripper. Fuel consumption for the V6 was rated at 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with our test vehicle averaging 9.4 L/100 km over 1,400 kilometres.

Inside the 2022 Cadillac XT6, the power-adjustable front seats were comfortable, especially with the optional semi-aniline leather. However, they lacked the range of adjustment and massage functions found in some rivals. The XT6's interior space was somewhat limited, with the third-row seat being unsuitable for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 357 litres, expanding to 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded, and a maximum of 2,229 litres with all seats down. Storage compartments were adequate but not exceptional.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus offered a more luxurious interior with smooth leather, ambient lighting, and a quiet cabin. The optional 22-way power front seats provided exceptional comfort, even on long journeys. Rear passengers enjoyed heated outboard seats and air conditioning vents, though legroom was tight for a midsize SUV. The Nautilus provided 1,055 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,948 litres with the back seat folded. While practical storage space was adequate, some areas were difficult to access.

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

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Sync 4 software. This system offered over-the-air updates, Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The intuitive user interface and natural voice recognition system were highlights, and the 19-speaker Revel audio system delivered excellent sound quality. The Nautilus also featured Phone as a Key, allowing smartphones to unlock and start the vehicle.

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 and required driver attention. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Lincoln Nautilus included the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.0 suite of driver-assist features, with options for additional safety technologies. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist were effective, and the standard rain-sensing wipers were useful in adverse weather. The Nautilus earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.