2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting including puddle lamps, additional lower body trim, exclusive 20-inch wheels, upgraded interior detailing, and a simulated suede interior headliner. These features made the Calligraphy trim look more upscale compared to other Palisade models. The Limited trim, which previously had some of these features, now shared an exterior look with the Palisade SEL equipped with the Convenience or Premium option packages. Standard LED headlights were a new addition for models that didn't have them previously.

Inside, the Calligraphy trim impressed with its Beige over Navy Blue color scheme, light striated simulated wood trim, and quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather. The suede headliner added to the luxurious feel, making the Calligraphy’s cabin appear more expensive than its actual price. This trim level drew attention, though opinions on its unconventional styling varied. Despite differing tastes, the Palisade Calligraphy was undeniably luxurious and offered a high-end feel at a competitive price.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 Premium Luxury test vehicle featured polished 20-inch alloy wheels, Stellar Black paint, and a Jet Black semi-aniline premium leather interior. The XT6 exuded a formal, almost chauffeur-like vibe, making it feel appropriate for high-end transport. Its exterior design was attractive but conservative, with towering front running lights that made the vehicle appear tall and narrow. The rear taillights were simple vertical lights, similar to those on GMC models, which some might find too plain for a luxury SUV.

Inside, the XT6’s semi-aniline leather seats were comfortable and the triple-zone automatic climate control was effective. However, the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, making it less practical for adults. Storage space was also limited, with small bins and hard-to-reach trays. Cargo space measured 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Despite its premium materials, the XT6’s interior didn’t feel as spacious or luxurious as expected for its price.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade came equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. Drivers could choose between Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 21 mpg for AWD models, and the test vehicle averaged 21.1 mpg.

The Palisade’s suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without being overly firm. It handled undulating pavement well, preventing body wallow and weight pitch. While not particularly fun to drive, the Palisade was predictable and confidence-inspiring, with plenty of power and easy maneuverability in urban and suburban environments. It also offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The V6, available in Premium Luxury and Sport trims, provided sufficient power but lacked the turbocharged punch of some competitors. The test vehicle featured AWD, with Tour and Sport driving modes.

The XT6’s V6 engine was powerful and sounded good, with added sound deadening for a quieter ride. The adaptive-damping performance suspension and 20-inch wheels provided a smooth ride over speed bumps and residential humps. However, the XT6 wasn’t particularly enjoyable to drive, leaning more towards serenity than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 AWD model was rated at 21 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 19.5 mpg.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and accessible interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs provided ample legroom and support, and the third-row seat was more accommodating than most competitors. The Palisade also offered plenty of in-cabin storage, with a large front center console and door panel storage.

Cargo space was generous, with 18 cubic feet behind the third-row seats, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and a maximum of 86.4 cubic feet. The hands-free Smart Liftgate was a convenient feature, automatically opening when it detected the key fob.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6’s interior was less spacious than expected, with comfortable but less adjustable front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs offered good legroom when slid back, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Storage space was limited, with small bins and hard-to-reach trays. Cargo space measured 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen requiring a wired connection. The Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode. A head-up display and surround-view camera system were also available.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected services, and an available navigation system. The system was intuitive and responsive, but the lack of digital gauges and the use of touch-sensing buttons were drawbacks. The XT6 also offered a Bose Performance Series audio system, a digital rearview mirror, and a Night Vision system. However, the head-up display was small and less impressive than those in other GM vehicles.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and multiple lane-keeping systems. Higher trims included a Blind View Monitor and ultrasonic rear occupant alert system. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, and included three years of Blue Link services for automatic collision notification.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The highlight was the Super Cruise system, allowing hands-free driving on approved highways. However, Super Cruise had limitations and required the driver to remain attentive. The XT6 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.