It’s human nature to think we know more about a subject than we do. That's why we consider it important to check our assumptions periodically.
This important life lesson came crashing back into my consciousness during the week I spent driving the Cadillac XT6. This midsize luxury crossover demonstrated that today’s Caddy was no longer the lumbering “land yacht” I remembered from my youth.
The XT6’s crisp, modern styling should have been my first clue. While driving a Cadillac still makes an upscale statement, the XT6 adds a healthy dose of everyday practicality to the automaker’s lineup.
The layout of the XT6 offers comfortable seating in three rows, though adults may wish for more rear-seat legroom. My test car was fitted with power-folding third-row seats and a convenient power rear liftgate; folding down both rear seats provides a generous 78.7 cubic feet of cargo room. Unfortunately, our tester was not equipped with GM’s SuperCruise—an early version of the hands-free driving revolution to come—but it may be a worthwhile option for those who drive a lot of highway miles.
Aesthetically, the passenger cabin offers quality materials and an attractive, if understated, design. Overall, however, the whole package doesn’t seem quite as nice as you’d expect from America’s preeminent luxury brand. If a full-on posh experience is what you’re after, I can think of other high-end automakers that do it better.
On the upside, my top-of-the-line Premium Luxury model sported high-tech amenities my grandpappy could scarcely have imagined, including options like a fighter pilot-style heads-up display, a 14-speaker Bose audio system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree surround-view camera system and even night vision. While all this technology was impressive, I found some of the touch-sensitive “buttons” to be a little finicky.
Elsewhere, the new Caddy has the performance to match its sporty looks. Though the 310 horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 under the hood of my test car won’t win any races, it’s more than sufficient for everyday driving. A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder is standard on entry-level models.
Front-wheel drive is also standard, with the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system on my test car available as an option. Two notes: This AWD system is meant for a little extra peace of mind when the flakes fly, not bombing down dirt roads. It also has to be engaged manually, which is just one more thing to think about when driving conditions turn dicey.
The adaptive suspension delivered a smooth ride and responsive handling. The word “adaptive” is key, as sensors react near-instantaneously to smooth out rough roads without that floaty experience Cadillacs of old were known for. Handling is likewise improved with a more dynamic feel when driving on a curvy stretch of road.
Ultimately, if you haven’t driven a Caddy in a while, the XT6 will surprise you, too.
STRENGTHS
- Available Super Cruise allows hands-free driving.
- Noticeably quiet cabin
WEAKNESSES
- Interior doesn’t have quite the air of luxury you would expect.
- Gas pedal can be a bit touchy for smooth acceleration.
BOTTOM LINE
- Though it sounds like an oxymoron, this model is a practical Cadillac.
SAFETY
- NHTSA Overall: 5 Stars (out of 5)
FUEL ECONOMY (mpg)
- 18 city/25 highway
PRICE*
- MSRP: $51,990
- As Tested: $71,595
*Prices listed include All Wheel Drive; destination charges, taxes and fees not included.
