2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Cadillac XT6

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 presented a clean and crisp exterior, embodying modern Cadillac design with smooth body panels and limited creases. It avoided flashy chrome and oversized elements, opting instead for satin-painted silver accents and a medium-sized silver mesh grille. The XT6's thin LED headlights and vertical running lamps added a touch of flair, while the overall design maintained a sense of restraint and taste. Inside, however, the XT6 fell short of its competitors, with a mix of luxurious materials like soft leather and gold-tinted carbon fiber, but lacking in seat support and design innovation. The interior felt dated, with small screens and ordinary color combinations, failing to match the first-class interiors of its rivals.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 exuded prestige and sophistication, with an interior quality surpassing that of the Cadillac Escalade and technological advancements over the Lexus LX 570. The X7 offered three versions, with the xDrive40i starting at $74,900. The test vehicle featured premium extended leather, a leather-wrapped dashboard, and an Alcantara suede headliner, creating a luxurious atmosphere. The X7's styling was appealing, with traditional BMW cues and a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, the X7 shared high-quality materials and intuitive technology with the X5, providing a seamless and comfortable driving experience.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. While it was capable of towing up to 4,000 pounds, the engine was coarse-sounding and less responsive compared to newer turbocharged V6 engines. The 9-speed automatic transmission offered quick shifts, and the AWD with adaptive dampers provided a balanced and controlled ride. The XT6's steering and suspension tuning were commendable, but it lacked advanced suspension options like height-adjustable air springs. Fuel economy was average, with AWD models achieving 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive AWD system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which aimed to improve fuel economy and responsiveness. However, the EPA ratings showed a slight decrease in fuel efficiency compared to the previous year. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. Despite its weight, the X7 provided a smooth and serene ride, with advanced suspension systems enhancing comfort and handling.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 offered a livable third-row seat, with decent knee room and amenities like USB ports and air vents. The second-row was spacious, with optional heated cushions and 3-zone climate control. Cargo volume was 12.6 cubic feet with all seats up, expanding to 78.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Visibility was good, aided by a digital mirror and improved controls for climate and infotainment systems.

The 2021 BMW X7 provided exceptional comfort, with heated and ventilated seats, and a five-zone climate control system. The third-row was surprisingly accommodating for adults, though accessing it required some maneuvering of the power seats. Cargo space was limited with all seats up but expanded to 90.4 cubic feet with the second-row folded. The X7's interior was luxurious, with premium materials and advanced climate control systems ensuring comfort for all passengers.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 featured an improved infotainment system with cloud-based voice commands and an app store. It offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with driver assists like forward emergency braking and lane-keep assist. However, it lacked semi-automated driving features and had a mediocre Bose stereo system.

The 2021 BMW X7 boasted a comprehensive iDrive 7.0 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch display, offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It included features like wireless charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control. The X7 also provided a head-up display and advanced navigation systems, enhancing the driving experience with accurate traffic data and real-time parking information.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered safety features like rear pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control. The Driver Assist Package added advanced safety technologies, enhancing the vehicle's safety profile.

The 2021 BMW X7 came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package. This package included advanced driving assistance systems, which were effective in reducing stress and enhancing safety in various driving conditions. The Parking Assistance Package further expanded the X7's safety capabilities with semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.