What's New
The 2021 Cadillac XT5 returns virtually unchanged, adding wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with swapping in new exterior colors.
Since replacing the Cadillac SRX a few years ago, Cadillac’s midsize crossover has become the brand's bestselling model. A redesign may be on the horizon in the next year or two – the XT5 is in need of ammunition against rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo.
Choosing Your Cadillac XT5
The XT5 soldiers on with the same three trim levels as last year: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport. Pricing starts at $44,990 including destination for the Luxury and climbs to $56,090 for the Sport.
Engine Choices
The XT5 comes with a choice of two engines. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is standard on the Luxury and Premium Luxury. Optional on the Premium Luxury for $1,000 more and standard on the Sport is a 3.6-liter V6.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 235 hp | 258 lb-ft | 24 mpg |
3.6L V6 | 310 hp | 271 lb-ft | 21 mpg |
Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the two lower trims, with all-wheel drive a $2,000 option. The Sport gets standard AWD.
The V6 is especially thirsty, but neither powertrain is efficient for the class. Both engines are also down on power compared to models like the BMW X3 or Volvo XC60.
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
Like other midsize crossovers, the XT5 seats five passengers. The cabin is relatively roomy, with second-row passengers enjoying 39 inches of leg room. The rear seats can recline for comfort, or slide forward for extra cargo space.
Cargo space is equally impressive, with 30.2 cubic feet behind the seats – that’s more than the practical X3. Capacity expands to 63 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Safety Features
Fully outfitted, the XT5 has a good set of safety features, but it isn’t easy to get there. Automatic emergency braking is standard, but the default system only works at speeds under 12 mph. An advanced system works up to 50 mph, but it’s an optional extra even on top trims.
The base trim also comes with automatic high beams, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors. Moving up to the Premium Luxury brings blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change alert.
On the Premium Luxury, the Driver Assist Package ($1,300) becomes available. It includes adaptive cruise control, the enhanced automatic braking system, and reverse automatic emergency braking.
The XT5 gets generally good scores in crash testing. The NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating, but the IIHS found fault in the standard headlights.
Connectivity
The XT5’s infotainment gets a slight upgrade for 2021, now featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system can be controlled through an 8-inch touchscreen, voice commands, wheel-mounted buttons, or a rotary dial in the center console.
Sounds is pumped through either eight or 14 speakers, both tuned by Bose. Four USB ports, wi-fi, and satellite radio are also standard. The Premium Luxury adds standard wireless charging.
On the Premium Luxury and Sport, navigation is a $1,025 option. Also on these trims, a head-up display and an 8-inch driver information center are bundled in the Enhanced Visibility and Technology Package ($2,275).
The XT5 Luxury earns its name with synthetic leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, remote start, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
On the outside, 18-inch wheels are complemented by adaptive LED headlights, a power liftgate, roof rails, and active aero shutters.
As the Goldilocks trim of the lineup, the Premium Luxury adds real leather upholstery, a panoramic moonroof, a hands-free liftgate, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power steering column, a heated steering wheel, and memory settings for the driver's seat, side mirrors, and steering wheel.
The best safety features are tucked away in the Driver Assist Package $1,300. Somewhat frustratingly, that package requires the Enhanced Visibility and Technology Package ($2,275), which adds a surround-view camera along with a color head-up display and automatic parking assistance.
The Sport trim comes with only one powertrain, pairing the V6 engine with all-wheel drive. Also standard are an adaptive suspension, a heavy-duty cooling system, 20-inch wheels, and gloss-black exterior accents.
Compare XT5 Trims Side-By-Side
Our favorite 2021 Cadillac XT5 trim is the Premium Luxury, which provides the best value for its luxury interior. We’d add the V6 as well for some welcome passing power.