2020 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 presented a clean and crisp exterior, embodying modern Cadillac design with its smooth body panels and limited creases. It managed to hide its long, boxy shape under a tailored suit, featuring satin-painted silver around the windows and a medium-sized silver mesh grille. The XT6's thin LED headlights and vertical lightsaber-style running lamps added a touch of flair, while the overall design showed restraint and taste, avoiding the flashy chrome and oversized elements. Inside, however, the XT6 fell short compared to its competitors. Despite having soft leather and gold-tinted carbon fiber trim, the interior lacked the luxurious feel expected from a brand-new luxury car. The seats were thin and plain, and the use of cheap vinyl in certain areas detracted from the overall experience. The XT6's interior seemed outdated, with small screens and ordinary color combinations, failing to match the first-class interiors of its rivals.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave aimed to recapture Buick's past glory with its large, impressive design. As the largest of Buick's SUVs, the Enclave offered a commanding presence, especially in the Avenir trim with its unique grille pattern and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir continued the upscale theme with organic forms, minimalist instrumentation, and polished accents. The soft, perforated leather seats provided a sense of luxury, although the wood trim was not genuine. The Enclave's interior focused on simplicity, with a fussy electronic transmission shifter being the only exception. The Enclave's ride and handling were praised for their comfort and adaptability across various driving environments, thanks to the premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. While it was capable of towing up to 4,000 pounds, the engine was noted for its coarse sound and lack of responsiveness compared to newer turbocharged V6 engines. The 9-speed automatic transmission provided quick shifts, and the XT6 felt balanced and controlled with AWD and adaptive dampers. The steering was direct, though it felt loose in the default Tour mode, improving in Sport mode. The XT6 achieved an EPA combined rating of 20 mpg, with AWD models rated at 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

The 2021 Buick Enclave also featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque at a low 2,800 rpm. This low torque peak contributed to strong acceleration, and the Enclave's nine-speed automatic transmission performed flawlessly. The Enclave's maximum tow rating was 5,000 pounds. The Avenir Technology Package enhanced the Enclave's performance with a premium-tuned suspension and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave's ride and handling were praised for their adaptability across various driving conditions, and it achieved an EPA combined rating of 21 mpg.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 offered a livable third-row seat, with decent knee room and amenities like USB ports and air vents. The third row power-folded, and the second-row seats could be mechanically dropped. Headroom was good in all seating positions, and the standard panoramic moonroof extended into the second row. The XT6 provided 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats up, 43.1 cubic feet with the third row down, and 78.7 cubic feet with both rows down. Visibility was excellent, aided by a digital mirror and improved infotainment controls.

The 2021 Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering spacious seating for six or seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured power-adjustable, massaging front seats, and a stylish center console with ample storage. The Enclave's third-row seat was genuinely useful, with easy access through large rear doors. Cargo space measured 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 58 cubic feet with the third row down, and 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 featured a fast and intuitive infotainment system with cloud-based voice commands and a built-in app store. It offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assists. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and night vision. However, the XT6 lacked advanced tech like Super Cruise and massaging seats, and the Bose stereo and infotainment screen were underwhelming.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. However, it fell short in screen size and high-end audio components. The Avenir's 8-inch touchscreen was the largest available, and the Bose sound system was lackluster. The Enclave offered a rear camera mirror, but lacked integration with smart home assistants and advanced tech features.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but it offered safety features like rear pedestrian detection, a digital rear-view mirror, and 360-degree cameras. The Driver Assist Package included forward emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and seat-belt tightening.

The 2021 Buick Enclave received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, though its frontal-impact protection was rated four stars. IIHS gave it high marks, but a Marginal headlight performance rating prevented a Top Safety Pick accolade. The Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trims, with adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking available only on the Avenir trim.