2020 Cadillac XT6 vs 2019 Acura MDX

In 2019, the Acura MDX continued to dominate the midsize, 3-row crossover segment, a position it had held for over a decade. Until 2018, few competitors could match the MDX's blend of luxury and practicality. The Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90 were more expensive, while the Infiniti QX60 had a less refined drivetrain. Lexus only recently added a third row to the RX, but it was cramped and not a true competitor. However, the landscape was changing with new entrants like the BMW X7, Cadillac XT6, Genesis GX80, and Lincoln Aviator, all vying for a piece of the market. Despite this, the 2019 MDX remained a strong contender, offering continuous improvements since its 2017 facelift, which included the introduction of the Sport Hybrid version and a new A-Spec Package trim level.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 showcased a clean, crisp exterior design, hiding its long, boxy shape under smooth body panels and limited creases. The XT6 featured satin-painted silver trim around the windows and a medium-sized silver mesh grille, with the Sport models opting for a black grille. Thin LED headlights and vertical running lamps added a touch of flair. The XT6's design was restrained yet stylish, avoiding the ostentation of bright chrome and oversized elements. Inside, however, the XT6 fell short compared to its competitors. While it had soft leather and gold-tinted carbon fiber trim, the seats were thin and lacked support, and the lower center console was wrapped in cheap vinyl. The interior felt dated, lacking the luxurious materials and eye-catching colors found in other luxury SUVs.

The 2019 Acura MDX came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Technology Package added 20-inch aluminum wheels with 245/50 tires, while the A-Spec and Advance Package versions featured 20-inch wheels with 265/45 tires. The optional SH-AWD system, required for the A-Spec Package, provided torque-vectoring AWD, thicker stabilizer bars, and improved weight distribution. The MDX Sport Hybrid, a separate model, combined a 3.0-liter V6 engine with three electric motors, delivering 321 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque, and offered better city fuel economy.

During testing, the MDX A-Spec proved quick and enjoyable to drive, with improved transmission performance and a nicely weighted steering system. The brakes, though prone to rumbling when heated, provided effective stopping power. The ride quality was firm but comfortable, with some dive, squat, and body roll. The MDX A-Spec returned 19.7 mpg on a testing loop, close to its EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving. The Sport Hybrid model, however, offered superior fuel efficiency, achieving 23.2 mpg on the same route.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. While the engine was adequate for moving the vehicle and towing up to 4,000 pounds, it was coarse-sounding and less responsive than newer turbocharged V6 engines. The XT6 offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive and adaptive dampers available. The steering was direct and nicely weighted, with a more secure feel in Sport mode. The XT6's brakes provided a firm feel, and the vehicle achieved an EPA combined rating of 20 mpg over 400 miles of mixed driving. Cadillac planned a plug-in hybrid version to improve fuel efficiency and low-end torque.

The 2019 Acura MDX offered a comfortable and practical interior, with fantastic front seats providing proper cushioning and support. The GPS-linked triple-zone climate control system kept passengers happy, and the second-row seat was spacious for both adults and children. Storage was abundant, especially with the Advance Package's second-row captain’s chairs. However, the third-row seat was less comfortable and more suitable for occasional use. With the third-row seat folded, the MDX provided 38.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 68.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats down. With all seats in use, cargo space was limited to 15 cubic feet.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 offered a livable third-row seat, with decent knee room, USB ports, cupholders, and air vents. The third row power-folded down and up, while the second-row captain’s chairs or bench seat mechanically dropped down. Headroom was good in all seating positions, and the standard panoramic moonroof extended into the second row. The second row was spacious, with optional heated cushions and backrests, and a 3-zone climate control system. Total cargo volume measured 12.6 cubic feet with all seats raised, 43.1 cubic feet with the third row down, and 78.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The XT6 featured a digital rear-view mirror and an improved touchscreen infotainment system, making it easy to operate at speed.

The 2019 Acura MDX's infotainment system featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with improved graphics and responsiveness for the lower display screen. However, the dual-screen setup was confusing, with the top screen used for navigation, smartphone projection, and vehicle settings, and the bottom touchscreen for the radio and secondary climate functions. The voice-recognition system was unreliable, and the screens were small for a 2019 model. Acura was expected to upgrade the system in the next redesign, similar to the True Touchpad Interface found in the 2019 RDX.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6's infotainment system was a significant improvement over the old CUE system, featuring a fast, intuitive interface with cloud-based voice commands and a built-in app store. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a suite of driver assists. The optional 360-degree cameras could record surveillance footage, and the XT6 offered night vision and LED matrix headlights. However, the XT6 lacked semi-automated driving features and Super Cruise, which were expected to be added later. The Bose stereo and infotainment screen were also underwhelming for a luxury vehicle.

The 2019 Acura MDX earned impressive crash-test ratings, with the AcuraWatch suite of safety systems standard on all trims. The Technology Package added a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with Acceptable ratings for headlight performance and child safety seat anchor accessibility. The Jewel Eye LED headlights were effective, and the AcuraWatch systems, while not as refined as some competitors, provided essential safety features. The MDX included a 90-day trial of AcuraLink Connect services, offering automatic collision notification, SOS emergency calling, and a car-finding function.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but top scores were expected. The Enhanced Visibility and Technology Package included rear pedestrian detection, a digital rear-view mirror, and 360-degree cameras. The Driver Assist Package offered forward emergency braking, emergency braking in reverse, adaptive cruise control, and seat-belt tightening. These features provided a comprehensive safety suite for the XT6.