The first Cadillac Escalade model hit the streets in 1999. Since then, the Cadillac Escalade has historically been a consistent favorite among large luxury SUV buyers. However, reviews on the 2020 Cadillac Escalade have been less than ideal. So, is the 2020 Cadillac Escalade model really worth $20,000 more than the midsize 2020 Cadillac XT6?

What are the pros and cons of the 2020 Cadillac Escalade?

Despite receiving an extremely low 41 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports, the 2020 Cadillac Escalade remains a premium choice among luxury SUV options. Despite the cons of this model, there are still a variety of pros that keep this model near the top. 

The base price of a 2020 Cadillac Escalade is $75,195. The vehicle boasts an exhilarating V8 engine and possesses unbeatable towing power. The model also contains lots of passenger and cargo space in ESV models. The cutting-edge technology, along with the premium interior styling that this vehicle contains, allows it to maintain its title of luxury SUV. 

While the 2020 Cadillac Escalade does have a lot going for itself, it does possess some cons as well. The standard models have an extremely cramped third-row. However, this issue can be mitigated by upgrading to an ESV model with a longer wheelbase, but that will cost you a bit more. Along with this issue, the vehicle is not the most fuel-efficient option and does not handle as smoothly around turns as some of its rivals do. 

How does the Cadillac XT6 stack up? 

So, how does the Cadillac XT6 option stack up to the less than stellar 2020 Cadillac Escalade? As a midsize luxury SUV, the Cadillac XT6 is often thought of as the younger sibling of the Cadillac Escalade. Still luxurious, just a bit smaller.

The starting price of the 2020 Cadillac XT6 is $52,695. One pro of this midsize luxury SUV is that it packs some serious power under the hood with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that includes Variable Valve Timing and Active Fuel Management. The vehicle also provides consumers with decent fuel economy, a roomy third-row for passengers, and an all-around smooth ride. 

Where the Cadillac XT6 falls short in comparison to similar mid-size SUVs is in its lack of agility. The model lacks the engaging driving dynamics and provides the consumer with little cargo space behind the third row. The Cadillac XT6 also does not provide consumers with as many upscale offers compared to similar midsize SUVs. The biggest drawback of the Cadillac XT6 is probably its low towing limits. The Cadillac XT6 is not the best midsize SUV option for consumers who are looking to tow over 4,000 pounds.

Which model should you go with? 

All things considered, is the 2020 Cadillac Escalade really worth $20,000 more than the Cadillac XT6? Overall, the two Cadillacs are very similar in both the tech front and seating capability. What truly separates the two models are their overall size and power. 

The Cadillac Escalade is the better option if you plan on towing heavy trailers. It’s just bigger and more powerful than the Cadillac XT6. Along with providing double the towing capacity of the Cadillac XT6, the Cadillac Escalade also provides a fair bit more cargo room too.

On the other hand, the Cadillac XT6 is your best bet if you’re looking for sharper handling and a vehicle with a more efficient fuel economy. When it comes down to it, the XT6 will be the better choice for most buyers. Purchasing the Cadillac XT6 will satisfy their needs for a luxury SUV while also saving the wallet $20,000.