2021 Cadillac XT6 vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exhibited a sophisticated and modern design language. Its front fascia bore the same distinctive styling cues seen in its XT4 and XT5 siblings, featuring a traditionally-styled grille with darkened accent pieces at the upper lip and around the lower bumper on the Sport trim. Complementing these were darkened window surrounds, roof rails, and rear bumpers. The Sport model flaunted new-for-2021 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels with Android Satin finish pockets, giving the vehicle a premium, unmistakably Cadillac appearance highlighted by sharp lines and slim all-LED headlights. Offered in seven colors, nearly all entailed additional costs except for the basic Satin Steel Metallic gray. The sunroof was included as a standard feature.

Inside, the XT6 mirrored a larger version of the XT5’s interior, available in three color schemes: Jet Black, Cirrus, and Maple Sugar. The Platinum Package boosted its luxury quotient with semi-aniline leather for the three rows, microsuede headliner, and premium floor mats for $3,700. The overall cabin imparted a semi-premium feel, though some dash elements like stitching and cubby design reflected cost-consciousness.

Conversely, the 2022 Buick Enclave carried a more traditional and less aggressive design philosophy. Over the years, Buick's transition from sedans to a purely SUV lineup epitomized the brand's adjustment to the changing market. The 2022 model benefited from a significant mid-cycle refresh that brought a new grille, updated front and rear fascias, refreshed headlamps and taillamps, and revised wheel designs. The top-tier Avenir trim received exclusive touches, including unique grilles and body-colored lower elements.

The Enclave’s cabin aimed at providing both comfort and simplicity. The 2022 model sported a restyled center console with new push-button gears and revamped materials. Premium trims like the Avenir featured heated, cooled, and massaging front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs with unique stitching. Although it didn't quite match the XT6 in luxury, the Enclave’s Avenir model nonetheless showcased a high-quality finish.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was propelled by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. This engine was shared with the XT6 Premium Luxury trim, while the base XT6 Luxury model housed a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine generating 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) was available, with all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option for Luxury and Premium Luxury trims, and standard in the Sport model.

Performance-wise, although the V6 delivered ample power for daily scenarios, the XT6 Sport, weighing in at 4,690 pounds, felt overly hefty, especially influencing its driving dynamics. The weight distribution, adversely affected by the AWD mechanics in the mid-rear, was noticeable compared to competitors like the Acura MDX and Hyundai Palisade.

The XT6’s fuel economy was on par for its segment. FWD models with the turbo-four engine managed 21 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The V6 models saw 19/26/21 mpg for FWD and slightly lower for AWD configurations.

The 2022 Buick Enclave simplified its powertrain with a sole 3.6-liter V6 engine putting out 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This facilitated a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Renowned for its quiet and smooth ride, the Enclave excelled in delivering a serene driving experience. The test model, fitted with the optional Avenir Technology package including advanced suspension upgrades, performed exceptionally well across varied terrains. The drivetrain’s responsiveness was surprising for such a large SUV, while the QuietTuning and active noise cancellation provided a near-luxury ride, often compared to higher-priced vehicles.

Despite its heft of over 4,300 pounds, the Enclave demonstrated commendable off-the-line acceleration, and the nine-speed gearbox functioned seamlessly. Although off-roading wasn’t its forte, its AWD capability and 7.5-inch ground clearance suggested satisfactory performance in light off-road conditions or inclement weather.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6, though competent, had areas where it lagged. Standard seating was designed for seven, but buyers could opt for second-row captain’s chairs for $800. The seats, while comfortable, didn't quite match the plush experience offered by rivals like the Acura MDX. Adults could fit in the third row, yet overall passenger dimensions fell short compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander.

Interior storage for small items was somewhat limited, specifically for front passengers. The center console's wireless phone charger was deeply set, restricting access to the phone during charging. Yet, in terms of cargo area, the XT6 outshone many rivals, offering generous rear cargo space. The standard power liftgate, with optional hands-free operation on Premium and Sport trims, along with power-folding third-row seats, added convenience.

In comparison, the 2022 Buick Enclave provided an effortless ingress and superb visibility thanks to large windshield and window openings. All seats delivered significant adjustability and comfort, and models above the base trim featured heated and massage-equipped seats. The Enclave could comfortably seat six adults, with easy access to the third row through standard second-row captain’s chairs. Its simplified but effective center console layout may have had its quirks, but it facilitated easier USB port access.

The Enclave excelled in cargo capacity: offering 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a massive 97.4 cubic feet with both rows down. Our test vehicle’s power-folding seats made accessing this space effortless, accommodating various storage needs more effectively than many rivals.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 wasn’t groundbreaking in its technology offering, yet it was adequate against its peers. It housed an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, susceptible to feeling congested. Standard tech included tri-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, WiFi hotspot, and Teen Driver monitoring. Higher trims could be equipped with a 14-speaker Bose audio system, enhanced wireless charging, and upgraded navigation.

For the 2022 Buick Enclave, the technology suite was more robust. Standard on Essence trims was an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration. Premium and Avenir trims included navigation and upgraded audio systems. Its system could pair up to ten devices, concurrently activating two smartphones. The built-in WiFi hotspot supported up to four devices within a 50-foot radius. The Premium and Avenir trims’ 10-speaker Bose audio system, though satisfactory, left room for more power, as noted by back-seat passengers requesting higher volume levels.

The Enclave also featured numerous USB ports and an array of driver assistance technologies, all working harmoniously without false alarms. The adaptive cruise control and head-up display particularly impressed with their clarity and accuracy.

Safety was a notable strength for both vehicles, but the offerings varied slightly. The 2021 Cadillac XT6 came standard with multiple airbags and several driver assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and Safety Alert Seat. However, its lane-keeping system underperformed in precise lane maintenance. The Driver Assist and Enhanced Visibility and Technology Packages offered advanced features such as adaptive cruise control and night vision, respectively. The XT6 earned top ratings from IIHS and strong scores from NHTSA, underscoring its solid safety performance.

The 2022 Buick Enclave upped its game with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard across all trims. This included features like forward-collision warning, lane-change alert, and rear cross-traffic alert. Premium trims enhanced this with adaptive cruise control and a head-up display. It earned high safety ratings from IIHS and a respectable rollover rating from NHTSA.