Launched for the 2020 model year, the Cadillac XT6 is a family-friendly luxury SUV that seats up to seven. Thanks to the talented design team at GM, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 looks dynamic on the road and adds to a homes curb appeal when parked in the driveway.
The XT6 is available in three trim levels, Luxury (New for 2021), Premium Luxury and Sport.
An SUV That Does its Part to Improve Property Values
Cadillac has done an nice job styling the XT6. The front fascia presents the new face of the company’s SUVs, something that we also see on display on the 2021 Escalade. Luxury and Premium Luxury models feature bright metallic or Galvano finished grilles and other exterior trim brightwork. Sport models, like our review vehicle, feature black exterior trim and a V-Series-inspired mesh grille. With a bright exterior paint color, like Crystal White Tricoat (as shown), the Sport’s black accents frame the crossover nicely. Our suggestion would be to select a set of gloss black wheels to complete the look. Opting for the $3995 Onyx package elevates the Sport’s design to the next level.
All XT6 models feature LED lighting, front and back, including the brand’s signature “light blades” in the front. Used as the daytime running lamps, the blades provide a unique signature day or night.
Eighteen-inch wheels are standard on the Luxury trim, and 20-inch wheels on Premium Luxury and Sport (as reviewed). Sport models can also be equipped with 21-inch wheels.
Turbocharged for Efficiency or Extra Displacement for Power
Cadillac’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is standard in the base “Luxury” model. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Power is rated at 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Luxury and Premium Luxury models are available with front-wheel or all-wheel-drive. Fuel economy on four-cylinder models with front-wheel drive is the best of the XT-6 models, rated at 21 city and 27 highway.
Our “Sport” test vehicle and the Premium Luxury model are both powered by GM’s proven 3.6-liter V-6. The normally-aspirated V6 generates 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed transmission with “Twin-Clutch Sport Control AWD” takes care of gear changes. Sport models are only available with all-wheel-drive. Fuel economy is rated at 18 city and 25 highway.
During our week behind the wheel, we found the V6 powered XT6 enjoyable to drive. The power is more than adequate for daily driving. Highway passing was easy and predictable. Precise steering, a comfortable suspension and strong braking made the SUV a welcome companion around town.
Towing capacity is limited with the 2-liter at 1,000lbs, but the V6 XT6 is rated at a quite useable 4,000 lbs when equipped properly. An optional “Smart Towing” package is available on Premium Luxury and Sport trims. The package includes a helpful hitch guidance system with hitch view, the hitch itself, a hitch cover and a seven-wire harness.
Less is More: An Upscale Interior that Seats Six or Seven
The XT6 is Cadillac’s smaller three-row alternative to the brand’s impressive flagship Escalade. Its easier to park and a tad gentler on the wallet, both at the dealer and the gas pump. But the smaller XT6 does lack some of the Escalade’s all-around benchmark family accommodations in the third row and cargo capacities.
Front row passengers will enjoy the spacious seating area. Gauges and controls are well thought out and implemented.
The second row seats can be configured with the standard three-passenger bench or a pair of captain’s chairs. While families that really need to seat seven will have no choice, we recommend the captain’s chairs. The two seats essentially mimic the fantastic seating experience of first row. In this 2 vs 3 comparison, for us less is more.
With only 29.5-inches of legroom, third row seats are best reserved for children. For comparison, the 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV has 36.6 inches of rear legroom. They are fine for adults in a pinch, but not spacious enough for a cross-country adventure.
When all the seats are in place the XT6’s cargo space is surprisingly limited, even for a mid-size three-row SUV. The SUV’s 12.6 cubic feet is enough for a few carry-on bags, but not much more. Drop the third row however and that number jumps to a more reasonable 43.1 cubic feet. Fold the second and third rows and you’ll have 78.7 cubic feet for that overzealous haul home from IKEA. Add in the standard power liftgate and it is almost too easy to bring home a new desk and bookshelf (assembly required of course).
Technology
We appreciated the ease of use and functionality of the latest version of the Cadillac’s infotainment system. An 8-inch color touchscreen system with enhanced personalization is standard. User profiles can be stored, allowing each driver to access their custom configurable profile. The available 14-speaker Bose sound system fills the XT6’s cabin with clear and loud audio.
Safety equipment includes a rear vision camera, auto high beams, automatic emergency braking, front and rear brake assist and forward collision alert. Additional standard safety tech includes front pedestrian braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning and a safety alert seat system that reminds you to take a peek in the back before heading off.
Pricing
The 2021 XT6 has a starting MSRP of $48,9902, including destination. Our review vehicle, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport with options costs $72,165.