Lexus GX vs Cadillac XT6

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 presented itself with a polished and sophisticated 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 luxury, reminiscent of a high-end chauffeur service. However, despite its upscale appearance, the XT6's design was somewhat conservative, with its towering front running lights and vertical taillights giving it a tall and narrow look. While the XT6's proportions and details aligned with Cadillac's brand image, it lacked the distinctive flair that might set it apart from competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance, giving it a commanding presence on the road. The GX's design was both rugged and sleek, with flared fenders and a short wheelbase that hinted at its off-road capabilities. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior was marred by an abundance of plastic materials, a trade-off for its low production volume. However, it still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery, maintaining a level of comfort expected from a Lexus.

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, but it fell short compared to the base versions of the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. While this engine 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 its athletic handling, but the driving experience leaned more towards serenity than excitement. Fuel economy for the V6 with AWD was rated at 21 mpg combined, with our test vehicle achieving 19.5 mpg.

The 2023 Lexus GX, on the other hand, was defined by its naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 delivered a satisfying linear power delivery and a distinctive sound. The GX's towing capacity of 6,500 pounds was impressive, but its fuel economy lagged behind modern SUVs, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight and older design contributed to its rolling behavior in corners, but its predictable handling and strong brakes made it manageable. The standard four-wheel drive system with a Torsen limited-slip differential enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it a solid choice for adventurous drivers.

Inside the 2022 Cadillac XT6, the interior space was somewhat limited, especially in the third row, which was challenging for adults to access. The power-adjustable front seats were comfortable, but they lacked the range of adjustments and massage functions found in some rivals. The XT6 offered 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down, and a maximum of 78.7 cubic feet. Storage options were decent but unremarkable, with small cubbies and bins.

The 2023 Lexus GX provided ample cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and convenient cupholders. The decision to stick with hard buttons for controls was a practical choice, though the abundance of buttons required some getting used to. The second row offered good legroom and headroom, but the third row was too tight for regular use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.7 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 64.7 cubic feet. The side-hinged trunk door posed challenges for access, requiring some effort to open.

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

The 2023 Lexus GX received an infotainment update in 2022, but it already felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) for improved on- and off-road performance. The Off-Road Package added features like a multi-terrain monitor and crawl control, enhancing its capability in challenging conditions.

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 boasted 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, offering hands-free highway driving assistance. However, it had limitations, particularly in challenging conditions. The XT6 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring excellent crash protection.

The 2023 Lexus GX, while not crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, came equipped with a range of advanced driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Despite its older design, Lexus incorporated modern safety technology to enhance driver and passenger protection.