The XT6 is a luxury three-row SUV that’s positioned to rival premium models such as the Audi Q7 and Lexus RX L. But this inviting vehicle comes up a bit short. The XT6 lacks some features that buyers might expect in a luxury SUV, and it has disappointing fuel economy. Cadillac’s below average brand reliability also hurts the vehicle’s Overall Score.
We found it to be a pleasant companion for commuting and road trips. But this Cadillac hasn't demonstrated any reason for buyers to choose it over key competitors.
There are some positives, however, including generous interior space, quiet cabin, and good outward visibility, thanks to the SUV’s tall glass. The infotainment technology is well-designed and easy to use—rare in this flashy segment. The dashboard is uncluttered, and the touch screen can be operated in a few ways, among them a rotary controller between the two front seats. Fit and finish is mixed, with mostly high-end materials offset by some cheaper-looking plastic and rough edges.
The front seats are firm and supportive, but the limited range of seat and steering-wheel adjustments disappointed some CR drivers. Cabin access is easy. We think the captain chairs in the second row are worth getting. The third row is cramped but helpful in a pinch. Both of the XT6’s rear rows fold easily, and the third row comes with a quick power-folding feature that’s controlled by a switch inside the cargo area. Both rows get USB Type-C charging port and the second row has its own climate control.
We found that the XT6 handles like a much smaller vehicle, without too much body lean and responsive steering. We had no issues maneuvering it into tight parking spaces, either.
The ride is comfortable but not in any particular way that makes it stand out, or for that matter, the XT6’s GM’s platform mates, such as the GMC Acadia.
The V6 engine provides robust, linear acceleration, and the transmission shifts smoothly and responsively. But fuel economy is just 18 mpg overall, well behind most other models.
An optional camera-based rearview mirror provides a wider-angle perspective. We had trouble getting used to the wide-angle camera view and ultimately kept it to the traditional mirror display.
Active safety features such as forward collision warning (FCW), city-speed automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, blind sport warning (BSW), and lane departure warning (LDW) come standard.
For those drawn to the XT6, the less expensive and well-executed Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse offer many of the same strengths.