2017 Cadillac XT5

Overview

Compact crossovers such as the Cadillac XT5 are essential to the success of any luxury automotive brand, and going up against the world’s best premium automakers requires faultless execution from roof to road. The XT5 brings a handsome exterior design, a spacious and practical interior, and cutting-edge infotainment and active safety features—but even with all that, it’s still not quite up to snuff. A rough-edged powertrain, mediocre driving dynamics, and an overwrought interior design spoil an otherwise compelling offering from Cadillac. Still, the XT5’s redeeming qualities and undeniable style make it worth considering.

What's New for 2017?

The XT5 is an all-new model for 2017, replacing the seriously outdated SRX in the Cadillac lineup. While the XT5 occupies the same spot in the compact luxury class, its styling, interior, and high-tech equipment more closely correspond to Cadillac’s sedan and SUV lineup than did the SRX.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The XT5’s engine and transmission do little to disturb the serenity of the cabin when cruising but lack refinement when pushed hard. Power is satisfactory, but don’t expect to burn rubber off the line. While the XT5’s 310-hp 3.6-liter V-6 is no match for the engine in a performance-oriented SUV such as the Porsche Macan GTS, it compares favorably against the Lexus RX350 and Volvo XC60. The Cadillac’s eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly but takes its time, even when in Sport mode. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. There are crossovers that handle better than the XT5, some that ride better, and others that offer a better combination of both. Add to that straight-line performance that is merely average and the XT5 is far from compelling to drive.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The XT5's passenger space is good, and accommodations are as deluxe as expected from a modern Cadillac. Both the front and rear seats offer adult-sized space, and the rear seat slides back and forth and has a reclining seatback. The XT5’s interior is made from a host of luxury materials, all featuring different textures and patterns, which imparts a fussy, disjointed look when taken together. Cabin ergonomics are good, and the driving position is agreeable. Above-average cargo space, plenty of bins for stashing smaller items, and an easy-to-fold rear seat allow this Caddy to transform easily from luxury-liner to cargo king.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

The Cadillac CUE infotainment system in the XT5 could use some improvement to its user interface, but our complaints end there. Cadillac has infused most of the latest and greatest technologies into even the most basic XT5 model. All trim levels include such niceties as an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. Four USB ports are located conveniently throughout the cabin, and a wireless inductive phone-charging pad is provided between the two front seats. Even base model XT5s get Bose audio with eight speakers, but audiophiles can upgrade to a 14-speaker system on Luxury and Premium Luxury trims; Platinum models offer the upgraded sound system as standard equipment.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Cadillac XT5’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.