I’m standing in a dealership lot, keys in hand, torn between two impressive SUVs: the 2025 Buick Enclave and the 2025 Cadillac XT6. Both promise luxury, space, and power, but which one’s right for you? My goal is to break down their features, weigh their strengths and weaknesses, and share my firsthand impressions to help you decide.
From performance to comfort, tech to safety, I’ll explore what sets these vehicles apart in a conversational, real-world way, so you can picture yourself behind the wheel.
Comparison Table: 2025 Buick Enclave vs. 2025 Cadillac XT6
| Feature | Buick Enclave | Cadillac XT6 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $46,495 | $50,590 |
| Engine Options | 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 266 lb-ft) | 2.0L Turbo I4 (235 hp, 258 lb-ft), 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 271 lb-ft) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 20/27 MPG | 21/27 MPG (2.0L), 19/26 MPG (3.6L) |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row) | 22.9 cu. ft. | 12.6 cu. ft. |
| Max Cargo Space | 97.5 cu. ft. | 78.7 cu. ft. |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch touchscreen | 8-inch touchscreen |
| Standard Safety Features | Enhanced Buick Driver Confidence | Cadillac Smart System |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs | Up to 4,000 lbs |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
My First Impressions: Stepping Into Luxury
Walking up to the Buick Enclave, I’m struck by its bold, muscular stance. It’s big—207.6 inches long, to be exact, making it one of the largest midsize SUVs out there. The Avenir trim, with its polished 20-inch wheels and sleek grille, exudes a quiet confidence.
It’s like a friendly giant, welcoming yet imposing. The Cadillac XT6, on the other hand, feels sharper, more refined. At 198.5 inches, it’s noticeably shorter, with crisp lines and a modern edge that screams Cadillac. Its Escala-inspired design gives it a sporty vibe, but I wonder if it’s trying a bit too hard to stand out.
Inside, the Enclave’s cabin feels like a cozy living room. The Avenir trim wraps you in soft leather, with perforated seats and a minimalist dashboard that’s easy on the eyes. I sink into the driver’s seat, and the massaging function kicks in—pure bliss after a long day. The XT6’s interior, though, leans into luxury with a capital “L.” The leather feels a tad plusher, and the wood grain accents add a touch of elegance.
But I notice more plastic in the Enclave’s lower trims, which slightly cheapens the vibe compared to the XT6’s consistent polish across models.
Performance: Power Under the Hood
Let’s talk engines. The Enclave comes with a single 3.6-liter V6, pumping out 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque.
It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and I find it smooth and responsive, especially when merging onto highways.
The power feels effortless, whether I’m hauling groceries or towing a trailer (up to 5,000 pounds, which beats the XT6).
But the eight-speed can feel a bit sluggish in stop-and-go traffic, occasionally hesitating before downshifting.
The XT6 offers two engines: a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder (235 horsepower, 258 pound-feet) and a 3.6-liter V6 (310 horsepower, 271 pound-feet). I test the V6, and it’s a close match to the Enclave’s, though the nine-speed automatic feels snappier, especially in the Sport trim. The turbo option, available on lower trims, is peppy but lacks the V6’s grunt.
Fuel economy is a mixed bag: the XT6’s turbo gets 21/27 MPG (city/highway), slightly better than the Enclave’s 20/27, but the V6 XT6 dips to 19/26. If you’re pinching pennies at the pump, the Enclave’s regular unleaded fuel requirement saves you over premium, which the XT6’s turbo demands.
Driving the Enclave feels like gliding on a cloud—soft, composed, and quiet, thanks to Active Noise Cancellation. It’s perfect for long road trips with the family. The XT6, especially in Sport trim, is more agile, with a tighter suspension that makes cornering fun.
But that firmness can make bumpy roads feel harsher. If you’re navigating city streets or parking lots, the XT6’s smaller size (5.8 inches shorter) makes it easier to maneuver. I parallel park both, and the XT6 slips into tight spots with less sweat.
Space and Comfort: Room for Everyone
Space is where the Enclave shines. With 44.29 inches of front legroom and a cavernous cargo area (22.9 cubic feet behind the third row, 97.5 max), it’s a hauler’s dream. I fold down the second and third rows, and there’s enough room for a weekend’s worth of camping gear or a new coffee table. The second-row captain’s chairs slide easily, making third-row access a breeze for kids or nimble adults. Taller passengers will love the Enclave’s extra headroom and legroom in every row compared to the XT6.
The XT6, while still spacious, feels more compact. Its 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row is tight—think a few grocery bags, not a full Costco run. Max cargo space hits 78.7 cubic feet, solid but no match for the Enclave. The third row is best for kids; adults will feel cramped on long drives. I climb back there, and my knees are practically hugging my chest. The XT6’s second-row seats are comfy, but the Enclave’s extra width makes it feel less claustrophobic for three passengers across.
Both SUVs seat up to seven, but the Enclave’s roomier cabin makes it the better pick for families or carpool duties. The XT6, however, has a slight edge in refinement. Its heated steering wheel and power-adjustable steering column (standard across trims) make every drive feel special. The Enclave offers these as options, but you’ll pay extra on lower trims.
Technology: Staying Connected on the Go
Tech is a big deal in luxury SUVs, and both vehicles deliver. The Enclave and XT6 sport 8-inch touchscreen infotainment systems with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
I pair my phone in seconds, and the interface is intuitive, though the XT6’s screen feels a bit sharper.
Both offer Wi-Fi hotspots and multiple USB ports, so the kids can stay glued to their devices.
The Enclave Avenir’s 10-speaker Bose system pumps out crisp sound, but the XT6’s available 14-speaker Bose Performance Series edges it out for audiophiles like me who crank the volume on road trips.
The XT6 pulls ahead with small touches: a standard Homelink system for garage doors and one-touch power windows for convenience. The Enclave charges extra for Homelink, and its passenger window lacks auto-up/down, which feels like a miss for a luxury SUV. The Enclave Avenir, however, offers a 115-volt outlet and massaging seats—features the XT6 skips entirely. If you’re working from the road or need a quick laptop charge, the Enclave’s got your back.
Safety: Keeping You Protected
Safety is non-negotiable, and both SUVs pack advanced features. The Enclave’s Enhanced Buick Driver Confidence suite includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts. The XT6’s Cadillac Smart System offers similar tools, but its available Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving mode is a game-changer. I test it on a highway, and it handles steering and braking with eerie precision, though it’s only on higher trims.
NHTSA crash tests give the XT6 a slight edge, with a 5-star overall rating compared to the Enclave’s 4.77 stars. The XT6 also earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus for 2022, while the Enclave hasn’t been fully tested recently. Both feel rock-solid, but the XT6’s longer powertrain warranty (6 years/70,000 miles vs. 5 years/60,000) adds peace of mind for long-term ownership.
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Pros and Cons: Breaking It Down
Buick Enclave Pros
- Spacious Interior: More legroom, headroom, and cargo space make it ideal for families or heavy haulers.
- Lower Price: Starts at $46,495, undercutting the XT6 by over $4,000.
- Towing Power: Up to 5,000 pounds, perfect for trailers or boats.
- Fuel Savings: Uses regular unleaded, saving you at the pump.
- Comfort Features: Massaging seats and a 115-volt outlet in the Avenir trim add practicality.
Buick Enclave Cons
- Less Agile: Bigger size makes it harder to park or navigate tight spaces.
- Transmission Lag: The eight-speed can hesitate in city driving.
- Base Trim Plastics: Lower trims feel less premium with more plastic accents.
- Shorter Warranty: Powertrain coverage ends a year earlier than the XT6.
Cadillac XT6 Pros
- Refined Ride: Sport trim’s suspension makes it more fun to drive.
- Luxury Touches: Standard heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, and Homelink elevate the experience.
- Fuel Efficiency: Turbo engine offers slightly better MPG than the Enclave.
- Advanced Tech: Super Cruise and a nine-speed transmission add sophistication.
- Safety Edge: Higher NHTSA ratings and IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus.
Cadillac XT6 Cons
- Cramped Cargo: Less space behind the third row limits practicality.
- Premium Fuel: Turbo engine requires pricier gas.
- Higher Cost: Starts at $50,590, and options can push it much higher.
- Tight Third Row: Not ideal for adults on long trips.
Real-World Scenarios: Which Fits Your Life?
Picture this: you’re loading up for a family road trip.
The Enclave’s massive cargo hold swallows coolers, suitcases, and beach gear with room to spare.
The kids sprawl out in the second row, and the third row fits smaller teens comfortably.
The massaging seats keep you relaxed on the drive, and the quiet cabin lets everyone nap.
But parking at a crowded beach lot? That’s where the Enclave’s size feels like a burden.
Now imagine zipping through city streets in the XT6. Its nimble handling and smaller footprint make parallel parking a breeze. The Super Cruise system takes the stress out of highway commutes, and the upscale interior impresses your clients when you carpool to meetings.
But when you try to fit a stroller and groceries behind the third row, you’re playing Tetris with limited space.
For me, the Enclave wins if you prioritize space and value. It’s a workhorse that doesn’t skimp on comfort, and the lower price leaves room in your budget.
The XT6, though, is for those who crave a sportier drive and premium touches, even if it means sacrificing some practicality. I lean toward the Enclave for its versatility, but the XT6’s refinement is hard to ignore.
Cost and Value: What’s Your Budget?
Price is a big factor. The Enclave’s $46,495 starting MSRP makes it more accessible, and even the top-tier Avenir trim ($61,537) undercuts the XT6’s fully loaded models ($71,942). The Enclave also retains 4.6% more resale value after five years, according to iSeeCars, which is a win for long-term savings.
The XT6’s higher starting price ($50,590) comes with more standard features, like the heated steering wheel and one-touch windows, but you’ll pay for premium fuel and potentially higher maintenance costs.
Ownership costs favor the Enclave, with IntelliChoice estimating $2,485 to $6,099 lower five-year costs compared to the XT6. Consumer Reports recommends the Enclave for reliability, safety, and performance, while the XT6 isn’t recommended, which might sway budget-conscious buyers. Still, the XT6’s longer warranty and luxury cachet could justify the premium for some.
Driving Experience: My Test Drive Tales
I take the Enclave on a winding country road, and it’s a smooth operator. The V6 has enough muscle to pass slower cars, and the suspension soaks up bumps like a champ. But in tight turns, the size makes it feel less planted. The XT6 Sport, with its adaptive suspension, hugs corners better, and I feel more connected to the road. Yet, on a pothole-ridden street, the XT6’s firmness translates to a jarring ride. If you live in an urban jungle, the XT6’s agility is a plus. For rural or suburban drives, the Enclave’s comfort takes the crown.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, they’re distinct SUVs on GM’s C1 platform. The Enclave is larger with more cargo space, while the XT6 is smaller, more luxurious, and offers advanced tech like Super Cruise.
There’s no official confirmation of discontinuation, but speculation suggests Cadillac may focus on electric vehicles or larger SUVs like the Escalade, as the XT6’s sales lag behind competitors.
It depends. Buick’s Enclave offers better value and space, ideal for families. Cadillac’s XT6 provides a premium feel and sportier drive, appealing to luxury seekers.
The Buick Enclave, Chevy Traverse, and GMC Acadia are close GM relatives. Non-GM equivalents include the Acura MDX, Lexus RX, or Lincoln Aviator.
Conclusion: Your Choice, Your Journey
After spending time with the 2025 Buick Enclave and Cadillac XT6, I’m convinced both are stellar choices, but they cater to different needs. The Enclave is your go-to if you want space, towing power, and value without sacrificing comfort. The XT6, with its refined ride and upscale features, is perfect if you prioritize luxury and agility. You can’t go wrong, but think about what matters most: room for the family or a premium driving experience? Test drive both, and let your gut guide you to the SUV that feels like home.
