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Precision Tuner
2020 Cadillac XT6 Three-Row CUV Debuts With V6 Power
Motor1
JAN 13, 2019
BY: BRANDON TURKUS
Motor1
JAN 13, 2019
BY: BRANDON TURKUS
For the past decade, as its competitors scrambled a fleet of capable and popular three-row crossovers, Cadillac has wandered about with just its Escalade SUV and the in-betweener XT5. In 2018, the compact XT4 joined the sedan-heavy lineup, while 2019 is reserved for the 2020 Cadillac XT6. Finally offering three rows of seats in a vehicle that isn’t technically a V8-powered pickup truck under its angular skin, the XT6, debuting Sunday at the 2019 North American International Auto Show, fills a gaping hole in the Cadillac lineup.
But while it serves an important role for Cadillac, the XT6’s position in the broader market is difficult to estimate. With 29.5 inches of legroom and 37.2 inches of headroom, the XT6 offers more third-row head and legroom than the Acura MDX (28.1/35.6) and Audi Q7 (29.2/35.9), and more headroom than the Infiniti QX60 (30.2/36.5). That’s a good start that’s improved on by a standard power-folding third row.
There is some attractive tech here, even if a headliner like Super Cruise is missing. Like the XT4, the XT6 will feature near-field pairing for compatible smartphones. Rather than tapping through menus on their phone or infotainment, owners can simply touch their phone to an icon on the dash and be good to go with Bluetooth connectivity. Owners of compatible smartphones will also enjoy fast wireless charging thanks to the 15-watt charge pad. A Bose Performance Series audio system boasts 14 speakers, while an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
What Cadillac is saying is that the XT6 will feature a 3.6-liter V6 with around 310 horsepower, while a nine-speed automatic transmission will send that power to an available twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system. That’s not a bad setup. Nor is the five-link independent rear suspension, the front McPherson struts, or the adaptive dampers at all four corners. Owners can snag 20-inch wheels as standard or opt for available 21s if they grab the XT6’s Sport trim.