By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(March 3, 2018) I reviewed the Cadillac XT5 last year when it first launched in mid 2016 as a 2017 model. It took the place of the outgoing SRX. That review has been updated to include changes for the 2018 XT5 tested here.

The XT5 is powered by an all-new 3.6-liter 310 horsepower V6. The engine includes cylinder deactivation that allows it to switch down to four cylinders when the vehicle decides it doesn’t need the extra power and can also shut off completely when the vehicle is stopped to save fuel.

It’s connected to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. This is the only engine and transmission offered for the model.

Front-wheel-drive is standard with all-wheel-drive a $2,645 option but is not available on the base trim model.

The XT5 is a carryover vehicle with almost nothing changed for 2018. There’s a new extra cost optional exterior color called Harbor Blue Metallic. And unless you choose Radiant Silver Metallic, all other available exterior paint colors cost an additional $625 to $1,225. The EPA has reduced highway fuel-efficiency ratings for both front-and all-wheel drive variants even though there have been no mechanical updates to the vehicle. Finally, Cadillac has reduced last year’s four-year or 50,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan to three-years or 36,000 miles of coverage.

Designers at Cadillac have paid special attention to presenting the XT5 with a more sophisticated execution of the exterior design. The grille has a softer look with more rounded edges and features the prominent new Cadillac escutcheon. Front LED headlamps and rear taillamps carry the thin, vertical look seen on both the Escalade and on Cadillac’s new CT6 sedan. Overall the look is luxuriously elegant and looks absolutely striking. Still, some might find the interior design a bit busy.



Like the SRX it’s still a five-passenger crossover with no options for a third row of seats. Second row seats recline slightly, and can slide fore and aft to maximize cargo space or add to passenger legroom.

Driving the XT5 is a pleasant experience. It feels steady and planted on the highway with excellent handling, minimum body roll on corners and overall impressive road manners riding on standard 20-inch wheels. The roomier cabin is exceptionally quiet and the ride comfortable.



The 3.6-liter V6 delivers ample power and acceleration with instantaneous power for passing on the highway. But we found the engine somewhat noisy and not as smooth as some competitors.

If there is one concern that stands out it’s the rearward visibility that’s compromised with thick rear roof pillars and a very small rear window. However some help is available with standard blind spot monitoring.

From the intoxicating pheromone released by supple ventilated leather upholstery, real carbon fiber interior trim pieces, real wood veneers, the cabin is exceptionally quiet and the ride comfortable.

Overall the new XT5 feels refined, luxurious and substantial and, definitely brings back that feeling of driving something special. It’s a feeling Cadillac once had years ago and is now desperately trying hard to bring it back. It’s worth noting that since it’s introduction for 2017 the XT5 has been an excellent seller not only for Cadillac but among other mid-sized luxury SUVS. Only the Lexus RX has outsold the XT5 so far this year.

But in a sea of excellent compact luxury crossovers Audi, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar and others the XT5 struggles to distinguish itself from those that are more luxurious and with a better driving experience. By example U.S News & World Report’s auto rating an reviews rated it no better than 18th place by a wide collection of well-known professional auto writers and rating organizations.

Vital Stats
Price: $40,595 - $64,390
Price as Tested: $66,510 (Platinum trim with AWD)
Seating: 5
Powertrain: 3.6L 310 hp V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission
Fuel Economy: 18-MPG City – 25-MPG Highway

Crash Test Ratings: The XT5 earned the highest possible 5-star rating from the NHTSA and “Good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The IIHS also awarded it a rating of “Superior” for crash avoidance & mitigation, front crash prevention with optional equipment.

Competes With:
Acura MDX
Audi Q5
BMW X5
Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Velar and Discovery
Lexus RX and GX
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Porsche Cayenne
Volvo XC90

Fab Features
Striking design
Classy upscale cabin style and materials
Excellent crash test ratings