MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Cadillac Xt6

NHTSA safety across every Cadillac Xt6 model year we cover.

Across the 6 model years of the Cadillac Xt6 we cover (2020 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2021 at 94 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2024 at 86. 14 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial Reviewed against NHTSA data 2026-07-02

The Cadillac XT6 is a three-row luxury SUV aimed squarely at buyers who want premium refinement without stepping into full-size territory. Slotting above the XT5 in Cadillac's crossover lineup, it targets families and upscale shoppers who prioritize a composed, upmarket experience. Sold in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, the XT6 competes in one of the most contested segments in the American market.

At MotorCaliber, we focus exclusively on safety, and the Cadillac XT6 presents a genuinely encouraging picture across the 2020 to 2025 model years we cover. The standout data point is the 2021 model year, which earned a 94 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index, placing it firmly in the Exceptional band. Crash-test hardware backs that up: the best-performing years show a 5-out-of-5 rating in both frontal and side impact categories, with a 4-out-of-5 rollover score, which is a reasonable result for a taller, heavier SUV body style. The rollover rating is worth noting because three-row crossovers carry an inherently higher center of gravity than sedans or smaller crossovers. The recall count across six model years stands at 14, which is a figure shoppers should take seriously. That averages more than two recalls per model year, suggesting Cadillac has had to address a meaningful number of manufacturing or design issues through this generation. Owners have filed 102 complaints in total, including 2 reports alleging crashes and 1 alleging injury. These are unverified allegations, but the pattern is worth monitoring before purchase. Bottom line: the XT6 earns strong marks in the crash-test booth, particularly in 2021. The recall volume, however, means any prospective buyer should run the VIN through NHTSA's database before signing anything.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the XT6 as a well-appointed, comfortable three-row luxury crossover that delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. Most find it competitive on interior quality and passenger comfort for its segment, though opinions vary on how much driving engagement it offers compared to some European rivals. Practicality in the third row is a point reviewers frequently address.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2021 XT6 achieved a 94 out of 100 NHTSA Safety Index score, the highest across the covered model years, landing in the Exceptional performance band.
  • Frontal and side crash-test ratings reach 5 out of 5 stars in the best-performing years, but the rollover score of 4 out of 5 is a reminder that taller SUV bodies carry an elevated tipping risk compared to lower-profile vehicles.
  • Fourteen recalls have been issued across the 2020 to 2025 model years, an average of more than two per year. Buyers should verify their specific VIN is clear of open recalls using the free NHTSA lookup tool before purchase.
  • Owner complaints total 102 across covered years, including 2 unverified crash allegations and 1 unverified injury allegation. While these are not confirmed findings, the complaint record is a data point worth reviewing alongside the strong crash-test scores.

Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Cadillac Xt6 with 4 recalls.

BY YEARXt6 by model year