2020 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 presented a clean and crisp exterior design, characterized by smooth body panels and limited creases that effectively concealed its long, boxy shape. The vehicle's satin-painted silver accents and medium-sized silver mesh grille added a touch of elegance without resorting to excessive chrome. Its thin LED headlights and vertical running lamps were among its most striking features, contributing to a restrained yet stylish appearance. However, the interior did not match the exterior's sophistication. Despite having soft leather and gold-tinted carbon fiber trim, the seats lacked support and appeared plain. The use of cheap vinyl in certain areas and the absence of contrast stitching or patterns made the interior feel outdated compared to competitors.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE's exterior design was considered adequate, with a promise of greatness that seemed to falter past the A-pillar. While the aggressive nose and contoured rear helped, the overall look lacked the stunning appeal of Mercedes' sedans and coupes. However, the interior was a masterpiece, boasting high-quality materials and a vibrant red and black color scheme. The GLE's interior featured innovative elements like twin arching grab handles with LED lighting, oversized headrests, and air vent grilles. The combination of wood, metal, leather, and suede created a luxurious atmosphere, although some controls, like the gear selector, felt flimsy. Overall, the GLE's interior exuded a sense of pampering and sophistication.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 was powered by 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's coarse sound and lack of responsiveness compared to newer turbocharged engines were notable drawbacks. The 9-speed automatic transmission provided quick shifts, and the vehicle felt balanced and controlled with all-wheel drive and adaptive dampers. The steering was direct, though it felt loose in the default Tour mode. The XT6's fuel efficiency was average, with a combined rating of 20 mpg. Cadillac planned a plug-in hybrid version to improve these figures.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its advanced air suspension and engine setup. The GLE 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG GLE 53 offered 429 horsepower with an electric supercharger. The GLE 580 and AMG GLE 63 S boasted even more power with twin-turbo V8 engines. The GLE's hybrid system provided additional horsepower and torque, enhancing throttle response and efficiency. The vehicle's ride quality and steering were exceptional, and it could tow up to 7,700 pounds. Despite its size, the GLE handled like a smaller sedan, offering a remarkable driving experience.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 offered a spacious interior with seating for six or seven passengers. The third row was livable, with decent knee room and amenities like USB ports and air vents. The second row was particularly spacious, featuring optional heated cushions and 3-zone climate control. The XT6 provided good headroom, even with the panoramic moonroof. 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 excellent, aided by a digital mirror and improved controls for climate and infotainment systems.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, primarily a two-row SUV, offered an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The second row featured power controls for recline and headrest adjustments, while the Coupe variant accommodated five passengers. Cargo capacity was 34 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe's sloping roofline reduced space, and the large rear tires limited door openings. The GLE's usability improved with the new MBUX infotainment system, featuring a single touchpad and simplified interface. Seat controls and driving mode shortcuts were user-friendly, though some steering wheel controls were less intuitive.

The 2020 Cadillac XT6 featured an improved infotainment system with cloud-based voice commands and a built-in app store. It allowed driver profiles to be stored and transferred to other GM vehicles. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver assists. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and night vision. However, the XT6 lacked semi-automated driving features and Super Cruise. The Bose stereo and infotainment screen were considered mediocre for a luxury vehicle.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, capable of reading hand gestures. The system included a Track Pace app for AMG models, seat kinetics, and a mood-yoga-zen function. The head-up display and instrument panel were highly customizable, and the ambient lighting offered 64 colors. The navigation system projected front camera feeds with overlays for directions. The GLE featured a natural voice assistant and semi-automated functionality, offering a wealth of electronic features that were both overkill and well-executed.

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

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received the Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS for its crash test performance and standard forward emergency braking. NHTSA had not rated the GLE. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a driver attention monitor. Optional features included adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and evasive steering assist. The GLE also offered Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for enhanced protection.