2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2020 Acura MDX

The 2020 Acura MDX presented itself as a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or attention-grabbing. It blended seamlessly into its surroundings, neither standing out nor causing embarrassment to its driver. The MDX featured Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, which added a touch of sophistication to the vehicle's front end. These headlights, with their five LED elements per side, flanked a trapezoidal grille that bore the prominent Acura logo, creating an expressive face. The MDX's sleek and low-slung profile, combined with its chiseled details and flawless paint and chrome, contributed to its overall appeal. Inside, the MDX boasted a modern and simple design, with a centre stack highlighted by twin infotainment screens and a high-quality fit and finish that gave the vehicle a solid and well-built feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its styling cues borrowed from the XT4 and XT5 crossovers. The XT6 Sport trim featured a traditionally styled grille with darkened accents, complemented by 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The sharp lines and slim all-LED headlights added to its premium appearance. The XT6 was available in eight paint colours, with most options incurring an additional surcharge. Inside, the XT6's interior closely resembled that of the XT5, offering four colour options and the potential for a luxurious upgrade with the Platinum Package. While the seats were a highlight, the dashboard area was less premium, though still attractive. The XT6's interior design was functional, but some elements, like the stitching and buttons, appeared less refined.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and the MDX Sport Hybrid, which combined a 3.0-litre V6 gasoline engine with three electric motors for a total of 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline-only model, equipped with Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), delivered impressive straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to its torque-vectoring technology. This system directed power to the outside wheel during cornering, enhancing turn-in and overall handling. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a suitable choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, generating 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. The XT6's all-wheel drive was standard, but its driving dynamics were hindered by its weight, particularly in the mid-rear where the AWD mechanics were located. This weight distribution affected the XT6's agility, making it less dynamic in various driving scenarios. Despite this, the XT6's fuel economy was competitive, with the V6 engine consuming 13.1 L/100 km in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 11.5 combined.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered practicality and versatility, with sliding and reclining second-row seats that facilitated access to the third row. The MDX provided ample headroom in all three rows and a generous cargo capacity, with 447 litres of space behind the third row, expandable to 1,229 litres with the third row folded flat. Folding the second row created a 2,574-litre cargo hold. The interior featured numerous storage options, including a flexible centre console, cupholders, and door pockets. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers, making the MDX a stylish alternative to minivans.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 accommodated seven passengers, with the option for captain's chairs in the second row on higher trims. While adults could fit in the third row, the XT6 offered less headroom, legroom, shoulder room, and hip room compared to some competitors. The interior's small-item storage was limited, particularly for front-row occupants. The XT6's rear cargo space was a highlight, with power-folding third-row seats and a standard power liftgate. However, the cargo load floor was relatively high, and space behind the third row was limited.

The 2020 Acura MDX featured a simplified trim structure with technology-rich packages. The base model included standard tech features like Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker audio system. Upgrading to the Technology Package added navigation, parking sensors, and a premium audio system. The A-Spec Package introduced additional tech and comfort features, while the Technology Plus and Elite Packages offered further enhancements, including a surround-view camera and rear entertainment system.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a decent array of standard tech features, including tri-zone climate control, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Buyers could upgrade to a 14-speaker Bose audio system, navigation, and enhanced wireless charging. While the XT6's infotainment screen was smaller than some competitors, it provided essential functionality. The SUV also featured a WiFi hotspot and Teen Driver monitoring.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX's Next-Generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure enhanced crash protection. The MDX received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 boasted a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, and lane-keep assist. Premium Luxury and Sport models added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The XT6's lane-keep assist system had some limitations, but buyers could opt for additional safety features through the Driver Assist and Enhanced Visibility and Technology Packages. The XT6 received favourable safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.