2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2020 Lincoln Navigator

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was a standout in the luxury SUV segment, distinguished by its unique design elements that set it apart from its Ford Expedition roots. The Navigator featured exclusive front and rear styling, including the Lincoln Embrace lighting system that illuminated the vehicle to welcome its owner. Its design was further enhanced by a lattice-type grille with an illuminated Lincoln star, fender vents, and full-width taillights, giving it a sophisticated and luxurious appearance. Inside, the Navigator offered a mid-century modern styled dashboard, digital instrumentation, and a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, all contributing to its premium feel.

In contrast, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with styling cues shared with the XT4 and XT5 models. The XT6 Sport trim featured a traditional grille with darkened accents and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, giving it a premium and distinctly Cadillac look. The interior, while similar to the XT5, offered four colour options and could be upgraded with the Platinum Package for semi-aniline leather upholstery and a microsuede headliner. However, some interior elements like stitching and buttons appeared less premium, though the steering wheel and console surfaces felt high-quality.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the Ford Expedition's most powerful version. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive provided a smooth driving experience, with multiple drive modes to tailor performance to various conditions. The Navigator excelled in towing, with a capacity of 3,764 kilograms, aided by Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Despite its size, the Navigator offered excellent body motion control, though it was best suited for open roads due to its weight and size. Fuel efficiency was a downside, averaging 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the engine provided adequate power, the XT6's driving dynamics were hindered by its weight, particularly in the mid-rear due to the AWD mechanics. This affected its agility in various driving scenarios. The XT6's fuel economy was competitive, with the V6 engine consuming 13.1 L/100 km in the city and 9.5 on the highway.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with optional 30-way Perfect Position front seats and power-adjustable features. The second row could be configured with a bench or captain's chairs, and the third row provided ample legroom and thigh support. Cargo space was class-leading, with up to 3,407 litres in the long-wheelbase Navigator L. The Navigator's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, making it a top choice for families.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 provided seating for seven, with the option for captain's chairs in the second row. While adults could fit in the third row, the XT6 offered less room compared to competitors. Interior storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was not user-friendly. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a power liftgate, making it practical for everyday use.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator's Sync 3 infotainment system was its weakest point, with slow loading times. However, it offered a range of features, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system provided an excellent listening experience. Additional technologies included a surround-view camera system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with standard features like tri-zone climate control, Bluetooth, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Buyers could upgrade to a 14-speaker Bose audio system and other premium features. While the tech was not cutting-edge, it was suitable for the XT6's target audience.

The 2020 Lincoln Navigator came equipped with the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not tested it.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The Driver Assist Package added adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by the IIHS.