Over a year ago, rumors emerged of an upcoming three-row from Cadillac called the XT6. Of course, this rumor also came with a denial of the CT6's impending death, whose fate was subsequently sealed. Unlike the news surrounding the CT6, the XT6 is on its way and was rumored to arrive at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show. Cadillac has now officially confirmed that its three-row crossover will make its world debut in Detroit on January 13 at a private event.

The XT6 will fill the gap in Cadillac's lineup between the XT5 and full-size Escalade as a rival for models like the Audi Q7, Lexus RX L, Volvo XC90, and upcoming Lincoln Aviator.

We still don't know what platform the XT6 will ride on, though we expect it to be an extended version of the C1XX platform, which also underpins the XT5 and GMC Acadia. The powertrain should also be shared with the XT5, meaning a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque going out through an eight-speed automatic.

Several sources have claimed that the XT6's interior will be nearly identical to that of the XT5. There will be some subtle differences, including a rotary controller for the infotainment not found on the XT5, though this feature should make its way to the XT5 for the 2020 model year.

Aside from minor changes, the XT6 appears like it will be little more than an XT5 with an extra row of seats. Cadillac chose to go this route because it was far cheaper and faster than designing an all-new crossover. The Escalade has always been a strong seller for Cadillac but not everyone wants to drive such a large vehicle. A three-row crossover makes perfect sense for Cadillac, we just hope it's not too late to the party.