The Cadillac XT6 was new last year, and many critics are wondering if this midsize crossover is prepared to dominate this luxury class. Cadillac and crossover fans embraced it during its introductory year. In terms of size, it neatly fits between the more compact XT5 and the behemoth Escalade.

It offers three rows of seating and is based on the same platform as the popular Chevy Traverse. This means there is no shortage of room for passengers and things.

But this Cadillac has taken an untraditional route for trim levels and amenity packaging. And it has some steep competition with the likes of the Lincoln Aviator, Audi Q7, or Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, which have been around longer to build a fan base of enthusiasts. Kelley Blue Book took a closer look at the 2021 Cadillac XT6 and suggested that it might have a little less to offer than these rivals.

What the critics like about the 2021 Cadillac XT6

There is plenty to like about the 2021 Cadillac XT6, and Kelley Blue Book reviews are quick to highlight some of this crossover’s best features. There is a third row, for starters, but it’s spacious and comfortable for adults. They also champion the advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel drive that is now available.

KBB praises the abundance of driver aids and top-notch tech. And they also point out the competitive price structure when compared to others in the class. Two of the reviewers more favorite features for the XT6 are the night vision and rear camera mirror washer.

What you might not like about this luxury crossover

This 2021 Cadillac XT6 offers much of what you’d expect in terms of luxury. The materials are upscale, the sound system is dynamic, and the tech is robust. But for some buyers, there are a few details that might be deterrents.

For example, there isn’t a hybrid variety available of the XT6 at all. And don’t let the third-row SUV size fool you; it is capped out on towing capacity at 4,000 pounds. The critics warn that overall horsepower is at the lower end of the entire class, as well.

A luxury price point you can afford

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 is competitively priced for being a luxury third-row SUV. MSRP starts out just under $50,000 at the base level. Adding in AWD or higher-level trims could top out spending closer to the $75,000, depending on what you prefer to add to your model. Trims include Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport.

Cadillac is offering new upgrades for this year

Despite its new-ness last year, the 2021 Cadillac XT6 is adding in some new features and upgrades this year. The base Luxury trim gets a boost in standard equipment, including 18-inch alloy wheels, power tailgate, heated side mirrors, and a power sunroof.

According to Car and Driver, the infotainment platform includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration at all trim levels. There are also six USB ports, Wi-Fi, and an eight-speaker Bose system. The Sport trim gets an upgrade to 20-inch alloy wheels, and there are a few new colors from which to choose for any version you configure — Wilder, Infrared Tintcoat, and Dark Moon Blue Metallic.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 is everything you’d expect from a Cadillac. You will enjoy the smooth ride, upscale interior experience, and the added third row. Sure, the cabin is quiet, and the tech is cutting edge, but these types of amenities don’t necessarily win the luxury crossover race.

Critics say the XT6 is great but falls a little short in offerings overall. You may have to take a test drive and decide for yourself.