THE CADILLAC XT6 VS AUDI Q8

There's no better class than the crossover class.

Yes, there is.
The LUXURY crossover class.
Today we'll look at two of the best luxury crossovers on the market right now to see which one, if any, is better than its competitor. We'll weigh in all the things luxury crossover prospective buyers tend to look for, like features, available tech, interior comfort, exterior looks, and of course, price.

Even though this segment is not characterized by price-conscious buyers, the difference between the two price tags will set off alarm bells. The Audi is shy of being 20% more expensive than the Cadillac, and for that kind of price difference (a little over $11.000), it should be a significantly better vehicle.

Spoiler alert.

It isn't.

Let's start with the exterior. To be frank, the Audi is a good-looking car. Sharp lines and a sporty back make it feel "alive" somehow, ready to hit the road at a moment's notice, and happy to do so. The Cadillac, however, is spectacular.

Because it's a very new entry, being introduced just three years ago, and has no older models which features it needs to integrate, the XT6 started out as a blank piece of paper. This allowed designers to draw it freely and very much in tune with modern aesthetics. The result is one of the most visually appealing crossovers out there, somewhat of a benchmark all other models should be compared to.

Engine power goes to the Q8, but only by a fraction. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 produces 335 horsepower, while Cadillac's 3.6-liter V-6 gas engine is able to reach a maximum of just 310 horsepower. A noticeable difference, but nothing too dramatic, and certainly not even close to explaining the extra $11,000.

The Q8 and the XT6 sport comparable interiors, considering they both have a top-shelf, exceptional look and feel. Quality materials all-round, impeccable craftsmanship, and complete comfort. There're a few other cars that will give you a more comfortable ride than these two, regardless of their price point.

What's worth mentioning, though, is that the Q8 only has two rows of seats, while the XT6 is a three-row crossover, which drastically increases its capacity to carry both more people and cargo. Behind the first seat, the Audi has roughly 60 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Cadillac crashes it at almost 80 cubic feet. More money, less car? How would that work to Q8's advantage?

The deal is sealed, though, when it comes to standard features. While the Audi isn't skimming on them, the Cadillac's list is absolutely ridiculous. Below, the features you'll find even on "entry" XT6 models.

8-way power-adjustable, heated front seats, an 8.0-inch touchscreen that controls the infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, 6 USB ports, heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, remote start, a sunroof, keyless ignition, power tailgate, LED front lights, wireless smartphone charging, and an impressive 8-speaker BOSE sound system that can be upgraded to a 14-speaker set. Again, all this at a price lower by $11,000 as compared to the Q8.

The conclusion is simple: no contest, the XT6 takes it and barely breaks a sweat.