The Cadillac XT6 will return for 2022 with one notable advance: availability of the brand's Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system. With this technology onboard, the XT6 can follow a predetermined route without human intervention. The system takes care of steering, acceleration, and braking while the driver simply supervises.
Introduced in 2020 as Cadillac's first three-row crossover, the XT6 bridges the gap between the two-row XT5 and the larger and costlier Escalade SUV. Last year, the entry-level Luxury trim arrived, lowering the starting price by nearly $5,000.
The XT6 provides upscale accommodations for up to seven passengers across three rows. Cargo space maxes out a 78.7 cubic feet with both back rows folded. The long list of standard features includes a sunroof, remote start, power heated front seats with driver memory, and tri-zone climate control. The Luxury model makes do with imitation leather upholstery, while the Premium Luxury and Sport get real hides, along with automatic wipers, a hands-free liftgate, and a heated steering wheel.
The standard infotainment system offers eight-speaker Bose sound, six USB ports, satellite radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium Luxury and Sport also come with wireless device charging. Navigation and a 14-speaker Bose system are available as individual options.
The Luxury will once again carry a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo that puts out 237 horsepower and 258-lb-ft of torque. The others get a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. While the four-cylinder has a small efficiency advantage, the V6 brings the power and smoothness buyers expect in this class. All-wheel drive will remain available on the Luxury and Premium Luxury.
Every Sport model will come with a twin-clutch AWD system that can distribute torque unevenly between sides for maximum traction. Buyers also get a sport-tuned adaptive suspension and a heavy-duty cooling system.
The XT6 comes fully equipped for safety with standard lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, front and rear parking sensors, and front collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. Available driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, reverse automatic braking, a surround-view camera, and an automated parking system. Adding Super Cruise to the mix brings the XT5 as close to self-driving capability as any vehicle currently on the market.
The 2021 XT6 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus and earns a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. We except these designations to continue for 2022.
