2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and NX 300h hybrid. This comparison focused on the gasoline models, specifically the performance-oriented F Sport version. The NX carried over Lexus's signature design elements, featuring sharp lines and a sculpted exterior similar to the smaller UX and larger RX models. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels, while the F Sport variant added sportier touches like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the NX F Sport boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats with optional Circuit Red interior color. The material fit and finish were top-notch, consistent with Lexus's reputation. However, the gauge cluster and center stack design appeared dated compared to newer competitors. The F Sport also included a G-Force meter, which, while interesting, felt more gimmicky than practical. The center stack's layout, featuring an outdated CD player and elevated climate-control buttons, limited open storage space between the driver and passenger.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 Premium Luxury test vehicle arrived with polished 20-inch alloy wheels, Stellar Black paint, and a Jet Black semi-aniline premium leather interior. The XT6's design was conservatively tailored, with towering front running lights and simple vertical taillights. It was available in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, with prices starting just under $50,000. Our test vehicle, loaded with options like Super Cruise and Night Vision, had an MSRP of $73,565. Despite the high price, the interior didn't feel as luxurious as expected, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen that felt outdated compared to rivals.

The XT6's interior materials were rich, but the overall layout and controls felt more akin to a GM crossover SUV than a luxury vehicle. The analog gauges and 8-inch touchscreen were functional but lacked the sophistication of competitors. The XT6's driving dynamics were competent but leaned towards serenity rather than excitement. The V6 engine provided sufficient power, but the driving experience was more about comfort than thrill.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but not as smooth as the eight-, nine-, or ten-speed transmissions found in competitors. The NX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds, which was average for the segment. The ride was generally quiet, though the powertrain could get noisy under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle but lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the AWD model had similar numbers but a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed electronically limited to 124 mph. The adaptive suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, provided a smooth and comfortable ride, though the steering was numb and lacked feedback.

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 zing of competitors. AWD was available with both engines, and our test vehicle featured an adaptive-damping performance suspension. The XT6 handled well on twisty roads and absorbed bumps with ease, but the driving experience was more about comfort than excitement.

Fuel economy for the V6 AWD model was 21 mpg combined, with our test vehicle achieving 19.5 mpg on a mixed driving route. The XT6's driving dynamics were competent but leaned towards serenity rather than excitement. The V6 engine sounded good, but the overall driving experience was more about comfort than thrill.

The 2021 Lexus NX's interior was stylish and comfortable, with plenty of room for adults in the front and second-row seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding configuration. However, cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The NX featured a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6's interior felt narrower than expected, with comfortable power-adjustable front seats wrapped in semi-aniline leather. The second-row captain's chairs offered good legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. Storage space was decent but unremarkable, with a small dashboard cubby and center armrest bin. Cargo space was limited, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available as part of the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. The Lexus infotainment system was not user-friendly, with functions buried deep in menus and reliance on a touchpad. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX also offered a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system and compatibility with the Lexus Enform Remote mobile app.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered impressive features like a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision system, and Super Cruise hands-free highway driving-assistance system. However, it lacked digital gauges and had an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected services, and an available embedded navigation system. The XT6's infotainment system was intuitive, but usability issues included touch-sensing buttons and counterintuitive indicator lights. The available Bose Performance Series premium audio system sounded great, but the head-up display was small and unimpressive.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA and came with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The XT6 also featured Teen Driver, Night Vision, and the Super Cruise system. The XT6 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a commendable four-star rollover resistance rating.