2022 Cadillac XT6 vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 presented itself with a polished exterior, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels and a sleek Stellar Black paint job. Inside, the Jet Black semi-aniline premium leather interior exuded a sense of understated luxury, reminiscent of a classic black-tie ensemble. The XT6's design was conservative, with towering front running lights and simple vertical taillights that aligned with Cadillac's traditional aesthetic. Despite its elegant materials and sophisticated driving assistance technology, the interior felt more akin to a standard GM crossover, lacking the distinctive flair expected in a luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance trim arrived with a striking Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior. The MDX's design was subtle yet sporty, with chicane-design LED lights and quad exhaust outlets. Inside, the MDX boasted perforated Milano leather and a Sport Appearance package, creating a refined atmosphere. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, detracted from usability. Despite these minor issues, the MDX Type S maintained an appealing luxury SUV presence.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered two engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. While the V6 provided sufficient power, it lacked the turbocharged punch found in competitors. The XT6's adaptive-damping suspension and available Brembo brakes enhanced its driving dynamics, but the overall experience leaned more towards comfort than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 with AWD was rated at 21 mpg combined, with real-world testing returning 19.5 mpg.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, the MDX Type S offered a range of driving modes, including a unique Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance experience, with issues like an indecisive transmission and poor brake pedal modulation. Fuel economy fell short, averaging 16.9 mpg in testing, below the EPA's 19 mpg combined rating.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6's interior was narrower than expected, with comfortable front seats but limited third-row space. The second-row captain's chairs offered decent legroom, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was modest, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage solutions were adequate but unremarkable.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided a versatile interior with three rows of seating and flexible second-row configurations. The Type S Advance trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. While comfortable, the seats lacked the support expected in a performance-oriented model. The MDX offered 18.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with seats folded. Despite some design choices limiting storage space, the MDX's cargo area was practical for family use.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 featured a mix of advanced and outdated technology. While it offered a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision, and Super Cruise, it lacked digital gauges and had an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but usability issues with touch-sensing buttons and steering wheel controls detracted from the experience. The available Bose audio system and digital rear camera were highlights, but the head-up display was underwhelming.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment system required the use of a True Touchpad Interface, which was less intuitive than a touchscreen. The MDX included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, but the native voice recognition system was frustrating. The ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered impressive sound quality, and the head-up display provided useful information, though the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The standout feature was the Super Cruise system, offering hands-free highway driving assistance. However, it had limitations in certain conditions. The XT6 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring strong crash protection.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured the Acura Watch suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. While generally accurate, the system occasionally issued false warnings. The MDX earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind in the event of a collision.