Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Cadillac XT6

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA presented a modernized look with its new generation, fitting snugly as the smallest SUV in the Mercedes lineup. Its proportions and styling were distinct, making it clear where it stood among its larger siblings like the GLS, GLE, GLC, and GLB. The GLA's dimensions placed it on the larger side of the subcompact class, comparable to the BMW X1. It was taller and slightly shorter than its predecessor, with short overhangs and cladding that added to its muscular appearance. Despite its small windows, the seating positions provided ample visibility, and LED headlights were standard. Inside, the GLA 250's interior was less impressive, with surfaces that were easily scratched and not as premium as expected. The seats were well-appointed, but the overall interior quality didn't match up to other luxury crossovers, with mass-market models offering nicer interiors for a similar price.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, on the other hand, arrived with polished 20-inch alloy wheels and a sleek black exterior, exuding a sense of understated elegance. Its design was attractive yet conservative, with front running lights that made it appear tall and narrow. The XT6's proportions and details conveyed a tailored image consistent with Cadillac's lineup. Available in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, the XT6's pricing was competitive, though options could quickly raise the cost. Despite its rich interior materials and advanced driving assistance technology, the XT6's interior didn't quite match the luxury expected at its price point. The analog gauges and 8-inch touchscreen were less sophisticated than competitors, and the interior felt narrow due to its relationship with the GMC Acadia. Overall, while the XT6 was well-equipped, it lacked the special feel expected from a luxury SUV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered three variants: the GLA 250 4MATIC, AMG GLA 35, and AMG GLA 45. The GLA 250 4MATIC featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. It accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The AMG GLA 35 increased power to 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. The AMG GLA 45 further boosted power to 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, reaching zero to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. The GLA's AWD system offered various drive modes, and the AMG models included additional performance features. However, the GLA 250 experienced turbo lag and road noise, and its steering was numb, typical for its class.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 shared its engines with the GMC Acadia, offering a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque in the Luxury trim. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The XT6's V6 provided sufficient power, and the test vehicle allowed for FWD or AWD mode selection. The adaptive-damping performance suspension and 20-inch wheels contributed to its athletic performance, though the XT6 leaned towards serenity rather than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 was rated at 11.5 L/100 km combined, with the test vehicle achieving 12.0 L/100 km. While the XT6 was competent in driving dynamics, it wasn't particularly enjoyable to drive, and the panoramic sunroof creaked during testing.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA's added height provided a more SUV-like seating position, with easy ingress and egress. Front passengers enjoyed excellent headroom and legroom, while the rear seats offered improved legroom with a 40/20/40 split-fold design. The GLA's cargo capacity was 435 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,430 litres with the seats folded. This was average for its class, providing ample storage for a family road trip.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6, expected to be spacious, felt narrower inside due to its design. The front seats were comfortable, with optional semi-aniline leather, but lacked the range of adjustment and massage functions found in rivals. The second-row captain's chairs offered good legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped for adults. Storage space was decent but unremarkable, with a small dashboard cubby and centre armrest bin. Cargo space was 357 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,200 litres with the seats folded, and a maximum of 2,229 litres.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA featured the MBUX infotainment system with two 7.0-inch display screens, touchpad controller, four USB ports, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Burmester audio system, wireless charging, head-up display, and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with voice-activated controls and a car-wash function.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered advanced features like a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision, and Super Cruise, but lacked digital gauges. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The voice recognition technology was excellent, but some usability issues persisted, such as touch-sensing buttons and counterintuitive indicator lights. The Bose Performance Series audio system was impressive, but the head-up display was less so.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA came with standard safety features like a rearview camera, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and driver-drowsiness monitoring. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the GLA's safety features were less comprehensive than some competitors.

The 2022 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 Super Cruise, a highway driving-assist system. The XT6 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, demonstrating its strong safety credentials.