2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2020 Lexus RX

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal in a competitive market. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with Lexus cars, and new paint colors like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear of the RX was revamped with a new shape, dual exhaust, and updated reflectors, complemented by an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX maintained its well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material options, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique features like a distinctive steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV's sporty appeal. Despite its aging center stack design, the RX's interior remained functional and durable, suitable for family use.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication, sharing styling cues with the XT4 and XT5. Available in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, the XT6 Sport featured a traditional grille with darkened accents and 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The sharp lines and slim all-LED headlights contributed to its premium appearance. The XT6 offered seven paint colors, with most incurring an additional charge. Inside, the XT6's cabin mirrored the XT5's design, offering three color options and a slightly larger space due to its size. The Platinum Package elevated the interior with semi-aniline leather upholstery and premium materials. While the seats were luxurious, the dashboard area appeared less premium. Despite some cheaper-looking elements, the steering wheel and console surfaces felt good to the touch.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The RX 350L variant offered slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450hL, with its elongated design, produced 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 7.9-second 0-60 mph time. Fuel economy varied, with the RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h excelled at 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models offered enhanced agility with adaptive variable suspension and sport steering. The RX provided a connected driving experience, though it struggled in snowy conditions without torque-vectoring technology.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission, producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The base XT6 Luxury model featured a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The XT6 offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on Luxury and Premium Luxury trims, while the Sport model came exclusively with AWD. The XT6's driving dynamics were hindered by its weight, particularly in the mid-rear, affecting maneuverability. Fuel economy was competitive, with the turbocharged engine achieving 23 mpg combined in AWD models. The V6 engine delivered similar figures, with slight variations based on drivetrain. The Smart Towing package was available on higher trims, enhancing towing capabilities.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was functional, accommodating four adults comfortably in the two-row model. The three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children or pets. The cabin offered good visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. The RX's cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350L and 450hL also had less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models, standard on RX-L versions.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 provided seating for seven, with optional captain's chairs in the second row. Adults could fit in the third row, though space was limited compared to competitors. Interior storage was lacking, particularly for front-row occupants. The wireless phone charger was inconveniently designed, making phone access difficult while charging. The XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and an available hands-free liftgate. The cargo load floor was high, typical for the class, and space behind the third row was limited.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The display was moved closer to the driver, and the system became a touchscreen. Despite these changes, navigation remained challenging. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other integrations provided workarounds. The RX featured six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6's tech offerings were adequate, with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, tri-zone climate control, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a WiFi hotspot, and six USB ports. Upgrades included a 14-speaker Bose system, navigation, and enhanced wireless charging. The infotainment screen was smaller than competitors, affecting usability.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety features included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, and lane-tracing assist. The RX received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered a comprehensive safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, and lane-keep assist. Premium Luxury and Sport trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The XT6's lane-keep assist struggled with accuracy. Optional packages included adaptive cruise control and enhanced visibility features. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by IIHS.