2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its design, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5 crossovers. The XT6 Sport model, in particular, featured a traditionally styled grille with darkened accents, enhancing its premium appearance. The SUV rode on 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and its sharp lines and slim all-LED headlights contributed to its definitive Cadillac look. The interior mirrored the XT5's design, offering slightly more space and four colour options. The seats, especially with the available Platinum Package, were a highlight, offering semi-aniline leather upholstery and a luxurious feel. However, the dashboard area, while not unattractive, lacked the premium touch of the seats.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue continued its evolution with a mature design, sharing features with other Nissan models like the Pathfinder. It sported a V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof design. The interior showcased a layered dash with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a sophisticated look. The centre console was notable for its electronic gear selector, allowing for more space and convenience. The Rogue's 9-inch infotainment display and digital instrument panel were well-placed for driver accessibility. The Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort, and the second row offered ample space for passengers. The Rogue's fit and finish, especially in the Platinum model, were commendable.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This engine was also standard in the Premium Luxury trim, while the base Luxury model featured a 2.0L turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The V6 provided sufficient power, but the XT6's driving dynamics were hindered by its weight, particularly in the mid-rear due to the AWD mechanics. 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 2022 Nissan Rogue benefited from a new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, a significant improvement over the previous model. The engine's variable compression technology allowed for efficient power delivery, enhancing the Rogue's performance. The new CVT transmission offered wider gear ratios, improving acceleration and responsiveness. The Rogue's fuel economy was impressive, with estimates of 7.8 L/100 km city and 6.5 highway. The chassis and suspension provided a smooth ride, and the electric power-assisted steering offered good feedback.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered seating for seven, with the option for captain’s chairs in the second row on higher trims. While adults could fit in the third row, the XT6 had less interior space compared to competitors. The small-item storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was not easily accessible. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a power liftgate, although the cargo load floor was high.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue provided ample storage options throughout the cabin, with bottle holders, cupholders, and various cubbies. The second-row seat was a 60/40 split reclining bench, offering flexibility. The Rogue's cargo area was generous, with up to 1,033 litres of space, expandable to 2,098 litres with the second row folded. The Rogue's interior was designed with practicality in mind, catering to families and commuters alike.

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. While the tech was suitable, the screen size was smaller than competitors. Upgrades included a 14-speaker Bose audio system and enhanced wireless charging.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue boasted a technology upgrade with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with wireless Apple CarPlay on upper trims. ProPilot Assist with Navi-Link offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, integrating navigation for predictive speed control.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a high-definition rearview camera. However, the lane-keep assist system struggled with accuracy. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured the Safety Shield 360 suite, with standard features like automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist capabilities, enhancing safety in various driving conditions. The Rogue received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.