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2021 Cadillac XT6 review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Cadillac XT6 highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Quiet interior
  • Room for adults in all three rows
  • Easy-to-use infotainment system

Cons

  • Small cargo space behind the third row
  • Many advanced driver aids don't come standard
  • Sensitive throttle makes it hard to accelerate smoothly
  • Low towing limits

Mileage (EPA estimate)

17 city, 24 highway, 20 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Year

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The 2021 Cadillac XT6 gets new base trim

Luxury three-row SUVs have gained a lot of popularity, but just like mainstream three-row SUVs, not all of them can comfortably fit adults in all three rows. The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offers three roomy rows of seating with easy entry and exit. It also offers sharp styling and easy-to-use tech features. A new entry-level Luxury trim for 2021 gets a turbocharged four-cylinder, while the other trims retain the V6 from 2020. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are also now standard equipment.

The XT6 doesn’t quite offer the same luxury experience as European competitors, with less impressive overall quality and a driving experience that leaves something to be desired. We found the throttle to be a bit sensitive at low speeds, and the AWD system has to be engaged manually. Usually, AWD systems manage themselves to balance traction needs and fuel economy, but in the XT6 the driver has to make those decisions.

All Cadillac XT6 years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Cadillac XT6 generation from 2020 to 2025

What is new for the 2021 Cadillac XT6?

  • Trim Added: New Sport trim introduced for enhanced performance.
  • Standard Equipment on all: Upgraded safety features now standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
  • New Equipment: Infotainment system upgraded to include larger touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • New Engine Option: Available turbocharged engine for improved fuel efficiency and power.
  • Significant Removal: Manual transmission option no longer available.

2021 Cadillac XT6 trims

Curious how Cadillac XT6 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Luxury:

  • 235-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Smart Key
  • Power Mirrors
  • Rear Defroster
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Third Row Seat
  • Cruise Control
  • Rear View Camera
  • View our Cadillac XT6 Luxury inventory

Premium Luxury:

Sport:

Cadillac XT6 photos

What We Like

Quiet ride: One place the XT6 can compete against other luxury vehicles is with its quiet ride. The XT6 offers a quieter ride than many other luxury SUVs, which makes carrying on conversations or listening to music that much more enjoyable.

Roomy seats: Some midsize luxury SUVs don’t leave much room for third-row passengers, but the Cadillac XT6 has space for adults in all three rows. The large, square door openings also help make accessing the interior an easier task.

Easy infotainment: Cadillac opted to use both touchscreen inputs and a rotary controller for the XT6’s infotainment, so you have multiple choices for how you interact with the straightforward user interface. Overall, the XT6’s infotainment system is easier to learn and use than many luxury competitors.

What Needs Improvement

Drivability: The sensitive accelerator pedal can make low-speed maneuvering feel a bit jerky, and we experienced some torque steer (the tendency of the vehicle to pull to the side under hard acceleration). Also, the all-wheel drive system isn’t automatic, it has to be manually turned on and off by the driver.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 balances practicality with luxury, offering V6 power, premium styling, and intuitive tech. It excels in comfort and versatility but includes mixed feedback on cabin noise and cargo capacity with all seats up. Overall, it stands out as a refined SUV for families and commuters.

Cadillac XT6 features and specs

Premium Luxury 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • Cruise Control
  • Rear View Camera
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • ABS Brakes
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Air Conditioning
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Mirrors
  • Remote Start
  • Traction Control
  • Power Locks
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Third Row Seat
  • Parking Sensors
  • Fold-Away Third Row
  • Power Windows
  • Leather Seats
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Power Folding Third Row
  • Heated Mirrors
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Android Auto
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • BOSE Sound System
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Automated Parking
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Head Up Display
  • Quad Seats
  • Rear Seat Heaters
  • Tow Hitch
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Running Boards
  • Navigation System
  • Rear Entertainment System

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

3.6L

Horsepower

310

Torque (ft-lbs)

271

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

19

Wheelbase

112.7"

Overall length

198.5"

Width

77.3"

Height

69.9"

Leg room

F 41.2"/M 39.1"/R 29.5"

Head room

F 39.8"/M 39.1"/R 37.2"

Front tires

P235/55R20

Rear tires

P235/55R20

Seating capacity

7

Max towing capacity

100/4000 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2021 Cadillac XT6 FAQ

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