The 2020 Cadillac XT6 takes a more family-friendly tack to the three-row crossover than the big Escalade.
Pros Evolved styling Standard automatic emergency braking Available all-wheel drive Smart Sport suspension tuning Supple, supportive seats
Cons Small third row Too far from Escalade in looks? Lacks SuperCruise, at least for now
The XT6 is an all-new model.Part of the first XT6 generation introduced for 2020.The 2020 Cadillac XT6 comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.
Pros Delivers both good power and ride comfort Many active safety features are standard equipment Third row is roomy enough for most adults
Cons Minimal cargo space behind third row Driving experience feels disconnected
Looking to get into the three-row crossover game with something more nimble than the full-size Escalade, Cadillac has launched the XT6. Based on the same underpinnings as the GMC Acadia and the smaller Cadillac XT5, the mid-size XT6 is spacious and family-friendly. It has many of Cadillac's unique styling cues, including a front end that is inspired by the Cadillac Escala concept, along with upscale trim and different lighting elements.
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional safety features are now standard on the base Sport trim level.New options, such as a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and second-row captain's chairs.Two USB ports added to the third row on Grand Touring and Signature models.Maximum torque output goes from 310 to 320 lb-ft with 93-octane fuel.
PROS Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers.
Pros Very attractive Well-done interior Good safety gear Engaging responsiveness
Cons Lousy infotainment Cramped third-row and cargo space Limited lineup
Mazda has given the CX-9 several upgrades for 2020, not least of which is a standard suite of driver-assistance features called i-Activsense. The bundle includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Also now standard are heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlamps, and heated exterior mirrors. Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models now come with a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a new key-fob design, and power-adjustable second-row seats.
Pros Snappy driving dynamics, great fuel economy, premium cabin.
Cons Small cargo bay, third row is only for kids, low towing capacity.
