2022 Cadillac XT6 Review: A Comfortable Three-Row Luxury SUV

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 enters the competitive luxury midsize SUV segment with a simple mission: offer three rows of seating, premium comfort, and everyday practicality without reaching Escalade-level pricing. Positioned between the smaller XT5 and the flagship Escalade, the XT6 targets families looking for a spacious luxury SUV that remains easy to drive and live with every day.

For 2022, Cadillac made a handful of updates, including new exterior color choices and additional appearance enhancements for Sport models. While the XT6 may not be the most athletic SUV in its class or the most luxurious, it delivers a comfortable ride, a user-friendly technology package, and a versatile interior that can accommodate up to seven passengers.

The challenge comes from strong competitors such as the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90, all of which offer distinctive strengths of their own. Even so, the XT6 remains an appealing option for buyers who prioritize comfort, practicality, and value in a premium three-row SUV. In this 2022 Cadillac XT6 review, we take a closer look at its performance, interior quality, technology, cargo space, and overall ownership experience.

Quick Specs Table

Our Take

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 fills an important gap in Cadillac’s SUV lineup, offering three rows of seating, premium styling, and a comfortable driving experience without reaching Escalade pricing. While it may not be the most athletic SUV in its segment or the most luxurious option available, it delivers a well-rounded blend of practicality, technology, and value.

Families looking for a premium three-row SUV will appreciate the XT6’s spacious cabin, user-friendly technology, and strong safety credentials. The available V6 engine provides adequate performance for daily driving and road trips, while the refined ride quality makes long journeys comfortable. Although competitors such as the Acura MDX and Volvo XC90 offer stronger personalities, the XT6 remains a solid choice for buyers who prioritize comfort, versatility, and understated luxury.

Pros

• Spacious three-row cabin with seating for up to seven passengers.
• Comfortable ride quality that prioritizes daily driving comfort.
• User-friendly infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Strong list of standard safety features through the Cadillac Smart System.
• Attractive starting price compared to many luxury midsize SUV rivals.
• Available V6 engine delivers smooth and confident highway performance.
• Premium interior materials and upscale design throughout the cabin.

Cons

• Cargo space behind the third row trails several key competitors.
• Lacks a hybrid or electrified powertrain option.
• Advanced driver assistance features require expensive option packages.
• Not as sporty or engaging to drive as the Acura MDX.
• Third-row legroom can feel tight for adult passengers.
• Optional packages can quickly raise the purchase price.
• Exterior styling is elegant but lacks the standout presence of the Escalade.

What’s New for 2022

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 receives a handful of minor updates rather than a major redesign. Cadillac focuses primarily on appearance enhancements and equipment adjustments while keeping the SUV’s overall design and powertrain lineup unchanged.

New exterior color options, including Latte Metallic and Rosewood Metallic, join the lineup for 2022, giving buyers a few additional personalization choices. Sport models also receive upgraded Brembo front brakes with distinctive red front and rear calipers, adding a more aggressive appearance.

Inside, Cadillac adds color-keyed floor mats across all seating rows, while the overall cabin layout, infotainment system, and available technology features remain largely unchanged from the previous model year. The XT6 continues to offer Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, each targeting different types of luxury SUV buyers.

Although the updates are relatively small, the 2022 XT6 remains a competitive three-row luxury SUV thanks to its comfortable ride quality, spacious interior, and strong list of available safety and convenience features.

Exterior Design

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 strikes a balance between elegance and restraint, avoiding the oversized presence of the Escalade while still carrying the brand’s recognizable styling cues. Its sharp LED lighting, bold shield-shaped grille, and clean body lines give the XT6 a modern appearance that feels upscale without being overly flashy.

At nearly 199 inches long, the XT6 has the proportions expected of a midsize luxury SUV, yet it remains easier to maneuver and park than many full-size alternatives. The profile is sleek and well-proportioned, with subtle character lines and a gently sloping roofline that help reduce the boxy appearance often associated with three-row SUVs.

The front fascia is unmistakably Cadillac, featuring slim headlights and a prominent grille design that varies slightly depending on trim level. Premium Luxury models emphasize chrome accents for a more traditional luxury look, while Sport models adopt darker exterior trim and a more aggressive appearance. Buyers seeking even more visual presence can opt for appearance packages that add unique wheel designs, additional exterior detailing, and exclusive styling elements.

While some competitors such as the Lincoln Aviator and Volvo XC90 make a stronger visual statement, the XT6 appeals to buyers who prefer understated luxury. Its design is clean, sophisticated, and likely to age gracefully, making it a vehicle that still looks contemporary several years after its introduction.

Driving Experience

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 is tuned with comfort and refinement as its primary priorities. Rather than trying to be the sportiest SUV in the segment, the XT6 focuses on delivering a smooth and relaxed driving experience that works well for daily commuting, family road trips, and long highway journeys.

Around town, the XT6 feels easy to drive despite its three-row dimensions. The steering is light and predictable, visibility is good, and the suspension does an effective job of absorbing bumps and broken pavement. Highway driving is where the XT6 feels most at home, offering a quiet cabin and a composed ride that helps reduce driver fatigue on longer trips.

Drivers looking for sharper handling may find competitors like the Acura MDX more engaging, as the XT6 tends to favor comfort over athleticism. Body motions are controlled during normal driving, but the SUV does not encourage aggressive cornering, and there is less steering feedback than some rivals provide.

Sport models improve the driving experience with suspension and chassis upgrades that add a bit more confidence through corners, but even these versions remain focused on luxury rather than outright performance. For most buyers, the XT6 succeeds by delivering the kind of smooth, comfortable, and stress-free driving character expected from a premium family SUV.

Performance & Acceleration

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 offers two engine choices, allowing buyers to prioritize either efficiency or stronger performance. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While adequate for daily driving, this engine can feel strained when the XT6 is fully loaded with passengers and cargo.

Most buyers will find the available 3.6-liter V6 to be the better match for the XT6’s size and mission. Producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, the V6 delivers smoother acceleration, stronger passing power, and greater confidence during highway merging. Both engines are paired with a responsive nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly under normal driving conditions.

Acceleration is respectable rather than exciting, which aligns with the XT6’s luxury-focused character. The V6-powered model feels noticeably more responsive from a stop and provides sufficient power for family road trips, while the turbocharged four-cylinder is best suited for buyers who prioritize a lower purchase price.

When properly equipped, the XT6 can tow up to 4,000 pounds, making it capable of handling small trailers, boats, and recreational equipment. Although competitors such as the Lincoln Aviator offer significantly more power, the XT6’s performance remains well-suited to the needs of most luxury SUV buyers seeking comfort and everyday usability over outright speed.

Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement

Comfort is one of the 2022 Cadillac XT6’s strongest attributes. Cadillac has tuned the suspension to prioritize smoothness over sportiness, resulting in a ride quality that remains composed over rough pavement, highway expansion joints, and everyday road imperfections. The XT6 does an excellent job of isolating passengers from harsh impacts, making it a pleasant companion for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

The cabin is also impressively quiet at highway speeds. Road and wind noise are kept well under control, allowing passengers to enjoy conversations without raising their voices. This refinement contributes significantly to the XT6’s luxury character and helps distinguish it from more mainstream three-row SUVs.

Front seats are supportive and comfortable for extended drives, while available upgrades such as heated, ventilated, and premium leather seating further enhance the experience. The suspension favors comfort over sharp handling, which means occupants benefit from a relaxed and composed ride even when the road surface becomes less than ideal.

While rivals such as the Volvo XC90 may offer a more premium Scandinavian atmosphere and the Acura MDX delivers a sportier personality, the XT6 succeeds by providing the kind of quiet, comfortable, and refined driving experience many luxury SUV buyers value most. For families who spend a lot of time on the road, the XT6’s smooth ride and well-insulated cabin remain among its biggest selling points.

Interior & Luxury Feel

Inside, the 2022 Cadillac XT6 delivers a premium environment that emphasizes comfort, practicality, and everyday usability. While it may not reach the ultra-luxury standards of the Escalade, the cabin feels well-crafted and upscale, with quality materials, thoughtful design, and a layout that is easy to live with on a daily basis.

The dashboard combines traditional luxury styling with modern technology, featuring clean controls and a user-friendly design that avoids unnecessary complexity. Soft-touch surfaces are found throughout much of the cabin, while available leather upholstery, wood trim, and premium finishes help elevate the overall experience in higher trims.

Front-seat passengers benefit from supportive seating and excellent long-distance comfort. The second row offers generous space for adults, and buyers can choose between a standard bench seat or available captain’s chairs for a more luxurious feel. Access to the third row is relatively straightforward, although adults may find the rear-most seats best suited for shorter trips due to limited legroom compared with some rivals.

One of the XT6’s biggest advantages is its ability to accommodate families without sacrificing comfort. Large door openings, numerous storage compartments, and a spacious cabin layout make everyday tasks easier, whether commuting, running errands, or heading out on a road trip.

Although competitors such as the Volvo XC90 offer a more distinctive luxury atmosphere and the Lincoln Aviator provides a more premium overall presentation, the XT6 strikes a strong balance between luxury and practicality. For many buyers, its comfortable seating, versatile interior layout, and premium feel will be more important than having the most extravagant cabin in the segment.

Technology & Infotainment

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 blends traditional luxury with modern connectivity, offering a technology package that is intuitive, responsive, and easy to use. Rather than relying entirely on touch-sensitive controls, Cadillac combines a straightforward infotainment interface with physical buttons and knobs that make everyday operation simpler while driving.

At the center of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen running Cadillac’s User Experience infotainment system. The interface is clean and responsive, with logical menu layouts that allow drivers to quickly access navigation, media, phone functions, and vehicle settings. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, making smartphone integration seamless without the need for cables.

The XT6 also includes multiple USB ports distributed throughout all three rows, ensuring passengers can keep their devices charged during longer journeys. Available features include wireless smartphone charging, built-in navigation, a premium Bose audio system, and customizable driver profiles that store individual preferences for multiple users.

One of the XT6’s strengths is that its technology never feels overwhelming. Unlike some luxury competitors that rely heavily on complex touchscreen controls, Cadillac maintains a user-friendly approach that reduces distractions and shortens the learning curve for new owners.

While the 8-inch display is no longer class-leading in size compared with some newer rivals, the system remains functional, reliable, and easy to operate. Combined with standard smartphone connectivity and a strong selection of convenience features, the XT6 delivers a technology experience that comfortably meets the expectations of most luxury SUV buyers.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is not one of the 2022 Cadillac XT6’s strongest selling points, but its efficiency remains competitive within the luxury midsize SUV segment. Buyers who choose the standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder can expect EPA ratings of up to 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, making it the more economical option in the lineup.

Models equipped with the available 3.6-liter V6 sacrifice some efficiency in exchange for improved performance. Front-wheel-drive V6 models are rated at up to 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while all-wheel-drive versions see highway efficiency drop slightly. These figures place the XT6 near the middle of the segment rather than at the top.

Compared with rivals such as the Volvo XC90 Hybrid and Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, the XT6 lacks an electrified powertrain option that could significantly improve fuel economy. Cadillac also does not offer a hybrid or plug-in hybrid variant, which may be disappointing for buyers seeking maximum efficiency.

For most owners, however, fuel costs are unlikely to be a dealbreaker. The XT6 prioritizes comfort, refinement, and practicality over class-leading efficiency, and its real-world fuel economy should prove acceptable for a luxury three-row SUV of this size.

Practicality & Cargo Space

Practicality is a major reason buyers consider the 2022 Cadillac XT6, and the SUV delivers a flexible cabin that works well for families, road trips, and everyday hauling duties. With seating for up to seven passengers and three usable rows, the XT6 offers the versatility expected from a modern luxury midsize SUV.

The second row provides generous space for adults and can be configured with either a traditional bench seat or available captain’s chairs. Access to the third row is reasonably easy thanks to sliding second-row seats, although taller passengers may find the rear-most seats best suited for shorter journeys. Children and teenagers, however, should have no trouble getting comfortable in the third row.

Cargo capacity is adequate but not class-leading. Behind the third row, there is enough space for groceries, small suitcases, or everyday errands, but rivals such as the Lincoln Aviator and Volvo XC90 offer more room when all seats are occupied. Folding the third row significantly expands cargo capacity, transforming the XT6 into a much more practical vehicle for larger loads, luggage, or weekend getaways.

Cadillac also includes several thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin, including large door pockets, a spacious center console, multiple cupholders, and convenient storage areas for smartphones and personal items. These details help make the XT6 a comfortable and functional family vehicle.

While some competitors provide more overall cargo space, the XT6 strikes a solid balance between passenger comfort and everyday practicality. For most families, it offers enough flexibility to handle commuting, road trips, shopping runs, and everything in between without feeling overly large or difficult to manage.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is one of the areas where the 2022 Cadillac XT6 performs particularly well. The luxury SUV earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, reinforcing its reputation as a family-friendly vehicle with strong crash protection.

Every XT6 comes standard with Cadillac Smart System, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies designed to improve awareness and help prevent accidents. Standard features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Park Assist, and a Rear Seat Reminder.

These systems operate smoothly in everyday driving and provide an extra layer of confidence when navigating traffic, parking lots, and busy highways. The lane-keeping system is subtle rather than intrusive, while the emergency braking technology responds quickly when potential hazards are detected.

Buyers looking for even more advanced technology can add optional packages that include Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Head-Up Display, Rear Pedestrian Alert, and Night Vision. While it is disappointing that some advanced safety features require additional packages, the XT6 still offers an impressive level of protection even in standard form.

For families shopping in the luxury three-row SUV segment, the XT6’s combination of strong crash-test ratings, extensive standard safety equipment, and available advanced driver-assistance technologies makes it one of the safer choices in its class.

Biggest Strength

The 2022 Cadillac XT6’s greatest strength is its ability to balance luxury, comfort, and everyday practicality at a competitive price point. It offers a refined ride, a spacious three-row cabin, and an impressive collection of safety and technology features without reaching the significantly higher price tags of larger luxury SUVs. For families seeking a comfortable premium vehicle that is easy to drive and versatile enough for daily life, the XT6 delivers a well-rounded ownership experience.

Biggest Weakness

The XT6’s biggest weakness is that it struggles to stand out in a highly competitive segment. While it performs most tasks well, it is not the most luxurious, the most spacious, the most efficient, or the most engaging SUV to drive. Rivals such as the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90 each excel in specific areas where the XT6 merely remains competitive. Additionally, the lack of a hybrid powertrain and the need to purchase expensive option packages for certain advanced features may discourage some buyers.

Competitors Worth Considering

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 competes in one of the most crowded luxury SUV segments, facing several strong rivals that each bring unique strengths to the table.

The Acura MDX is the better choice for drivers who value sporty handling and a more engaging driving experience. It offers sharper steering, a more athletic chassis, and one of the most refined interiors in the segment, making it particularly appealing to enthusiasts who still need three rows of seating.

The Lincoln Aviator takes a different approach by emphasizing power and luxury. Its available twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivers significantly stronger acceleration than the XT6, while the cabin feels more upscale and distinctive. Buyers looking for a more premium experience may find the Aviator especially attractive.

The Volvo XC90 remains one of the segment’s benchmarks thanks to its elegant Scandinavian design, advanced safety technology, and available hybrid powertrains. It offers a more modern luxury atmosphere than the XT6 while also providing better fuel-efficiency options.

For shoppers who prioritize comfort, reliability, and long-term ownership satisfaction, the Lexus RX is another strong alternative. Although not as spacious as some three-row competitors, it delivers exceptional build quality, a refined ride, and Lexus’ well-earned reputation for dependability.

The XT6 may not dominate any single category, but its balanced combination of comfort, practicality, safety, and value helps it remain a compelling option among these highly capable luxury SUV rivals.

Trim Comparison

Luxury

The Luxury trim serves as the entry point to the XT6 lineup and comes well-equipped with a generous list of standard features. Buyers receive the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Cadillac Smart System safety technologies, power-adjustable front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and tri-zone automatic climate control. It offers solid value for buyers who want a premium three-row SUV without spending heavily on optional upgrades.

Premium Luxury

The Premium Luxury trim is where the XT6 lineup becomes most appealing. In addition to the available 3.6-liter V6 engine, it adds higher-quality interior materials, upgraded leather seating surfaces, enhanced technology options, additional driver-assistance features, and more customization opportunities. This trim strikes an excellent balance between luxury, comfort, and value while avoiding the higher costs associated with the Sport model’s appearance-focused upgrades.

Sport

The Sport trim targets buyers looking for a more aggressive appearance and a slightly more engaging driving experience. It comes standard with the 3.6-liter V6 engine and includes performance-oriented suspension tuning, unique exterior styling elements, darkened trim accents, and exclusive wheel designs. While it is the most visually distinctive XT6 model, the improvements focus more on style and handling character than outright performance.

Which Trim Does CarDrav Recommend?

If we were buying a 2022 Cadillac XT6, the Premium Luxury trim would be our pick. It delivers the best balance of comfort, technology, luxury features, and overall value without pushing the price as high as a fully loaded Sport model.

The Premium Luxury trim unlocks access to the more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine, which better suits the XT6’s size and provides noticeably stronger acceleration for highway driving and family road trips. It also adds higher-quality interior materials, additional convenience features, and access to many of the advanced safety and technology options that luxury SUV buyers expect.

While the entry-level Luxury trim offers good value, many shoppers in this segment will likely want the upgraded equipment and refinement found in Premium Luxury. The Sport trim certainly looks more aggressive and includes unique styling enhancements, but its added cost is harder to justify unless exterior appearance is a top priority.

For most buyers, the Premium Luxury trim represents the sweet spot in the XT6 lineup, offering the features that matter most while maintaining a reasonable price compared to similarly equipped luxury SUV competitors.

Should You Buy It?

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 is a strong choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, family-friendly luxury SUV with three rows of seating and a premium driving experience. It may not be the segment leader in performance, cargo space, or luxury, but it does nearly everything well enough to satisfy most drivers.

Families will appreciate the spacious cabin, smooth ride quality, extensive safety technology, and user-friendly infotainment system. The available V6 engine also provides adequate power for road trips, highway driving, and light towing duties.

However, shoppers looking for the sportiest driving experience may prefer the Acura MDX, while those seeking maximum luxury or hybrid efficiency may find the Lincoln Aviator or Volvo XC90 more appealing. For buyers who value comfort, practicality, and overall value, the XT6 remains a compelling luxury SUV that deserves a place on any midsize luxury SUV shopping list.

For complete specifications, available packages, and the latest ownership information, visit the official Cadillac XT6 page.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Cadillac XT6 succeeds by focusing on what many luxury SUV buyers want most: comfort, practicality, safety, and everyday usability. Its spacious three-row interior, refined ride quality, and strong collection of available technology features make it a capable family vehicle that feels genuinely premium without reaching the price levels of larger luxury SUVs.

While it may not stand out as the most powerful, most luxurious, or most fuel-efficient option in the segment, the XT6 delivers a balanced ownership experience that few buyers will find disappointing. Cadillac’s midsize SUV offers enough comfort and versatility to handle daily commuting, family road trips, and everything in between.

For shoppers seeking a well-rounded luxury three-row SUV with attractive styling, modern technology, and solid value, the 2022 Cadillac XT6 remains an easy vehicle to recommend.

If you’re considering other luxury SUVs, CarDrav also offers detailed reviews of the 2023 Cadillac XT5, 2023 Jaguar F-Pace, 2023 Audi Q8, 2023 BMW 5 Series, and 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS. Each model brings its own blend of luxury, technology, performance, and practicality, making them excellent alternatives worth comparing before making a final decision.

FAQ

Is the 2022 Cadillac XT6 a good family SUV?

Yes. The XT6 offers three rows of seating, a comfortable ride, strong safety ratings, and a practical cabin layout, making it an excellent choice for families.

How many passengers can the 2022 Cadillac XT6 seat?

The XT6 can seat either six or seven passengers depending on whether it is equipped with second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat.

Which engine is best in the 2022 Cadillac XT6?

The available 3.6-liter V6 is the better choice for most buyers because it provides stronger acceleration and feels more suitable for a luxury three-row SUV.

Does the 2022 Cadillac XT6 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across the XT6 lineup, allowing seamless smartphone integration.

What is the best 2022 Cadillac XT6 trim level?

The Premium Luxury trim is our recommendation because it offers the best combination of features, comfort, performance, and overall value.