Modern Lifestyles WINTER 2020 | Page 93

The Cadillac XT6 is an all-new luxury midsized SUV with three rows of seating, upscale interior appointments, and an understated exterior. The XT6’s interior integrates technology seamlessly without any of the frustrations we found in recent Acura, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz models, where the controls can be confusing. The dashboard is uncluttered, with only a touch screen in the center and buttons and switches for climate control beneath. We liked that drivers can also use a rotary controller between the two front seats to make selections on the screen. The exterior is a soft angular feel, with a boxy shape and big windows that help with visibility. Active safety features such as low-speed automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, and lane-departure warning come standard. Both of the XT6’s rear rows fold easily, and the third row comes with a quick power-folding feature that’s controlled by a switch inside the cargo area. Both rows get USB Type-C charging port and the second row has its own climate control. There’s plenty of shoulder and headroom in the back row, although legroom is tight. We liked that the rear console-mounted cupholder sits on sturdy metal rails so it will hold up to the abuse from flailing feet in the second row. Power delivery from the V6 engine and nine-speed automatic transmission combination was predictable at all speeds, and the powertrain doesn’t lurch in the way that some vehicles can in stop-and-go driving. The cabin does a good job reducing wind and road noise, which is to be expected in a vehicle in this price range. We found the XT6’s ride to be mostly smooth on a variety of road surfaces, although it had challenges with larger bumps and assorted potholes. We’re impressed with the XT6’s interior and agreeable handling. Cadillac showed up to the three- row luxury midsized SUV party with a solid contender. QUICK LOOKS Timothy Miller ModernLifestyles.vip 93