BMW X7 vs Cadillac XT6

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. However, the XT6's design leaned towards a conservative aesthetic, with its towering front running lights and vertical taillights that echoed GMC's styling. While the XT6's proportions and details aligned with Cadillac's lineup, it lacked the distinctive flair that might set it apart in the luxury SUV segment.

In contrast, the 2023 BMW X7 underwent a bold facelift, adopting a design language similar to the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and recessed headlights, creating a polarizing look with its oversized kidney grille. While the new styling aimed for a bolder presence, it sacrificed some grace and cohesiveness. The interior received a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, complemented by high-quality materials. Despite the divisive exterior, the X7's interior revisions added a modern and elegant touch.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered two engine options, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine powered the XT6 Luxury's front wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, the Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. While the V6 provided sufficient power, it lacked the turbocharged punch found in some competitors. The XT6's adaptive-damping performance suspension and available all-wheel drive contributed to a comfortable and composed ride, though it leaned more towards serenity than excitement.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the xDrive40i model, equipped with a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 delivered impressive acceleration and composed handling. The V8 engine provided potent performance, while the base six-cylinder offered adequate power for most drivers. The X7 struck a balance between performance and comfort, with a slightly firmer ride characteristic of BMW's engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6's interior, while comfortable, felt narrower than expected for a three-row SUV. The power-adjustable front seats, wrapped in semi-aniline leather, offered comfort but lacked advanced features like massage functions. The second-row captain's chairs provided good legroom, but the third-row seat was cramped for adults. Cargo space behind the third row measured 12.6 cubic feet, expandable to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Storage options were decent but unremarkable, with limited cubby space.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in interior space, accommodating taller passengers in the second row with ease. Accessing the third row required some maneuvering, but it offered adequate head- and legroom for average-sized adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 12.8 cubic feet, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed, and a maximum of 90.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat passengers enjoyed ample storage space, including a large center console bin and well-sized cupholders.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offered a mix of advanced features and outdated technology. While it boasted a digital rearview mirror, Night Vision system, and Super Cruise hands-free driving-assistance system, it lacked digital gauges and had an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The infotainment software was intuitive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but usability issues arose with touch-sensing buttons and counterintuitive controls. The available Bose Performance Series audio system delivered excellent sound quality, but the head-up display was less impressive.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive infotainment system, which, despite its intuitive layout, had some drawbacks. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, making simple tasks like adjusting seat settings cumbersome. Voice commands offered a workaround, but they interrupted audio playback. While the system excelled in navigation and texting, it lacked physical buttons for frequently used features. The X7's infotainment system represented a step backward in terms of user-friendliness.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The standout feature was the Super Cruise system, which allowed hands-free highway driving on approved roads. However, it had limitations, such as inconsistent lane-keeping and abrupt braking. The XT6 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring excellent crash protection.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a robust array of standard safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, while options included adaptive cruise control and a highway driving assist feature. During testing, these features performed reliably, with no false alarms or unpredictable responses. The highway driving assist feature significantly reduced driver fatigue on long trips.