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2021 Cadillac XT5

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Make
Cadillac
Model
XT5
Year
2021
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Used Car Price Range
$22,000 - $44,885
$22,000 $44,885
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2021 Luxury 4dr Front-Wheel Drive
most popular
Price:   -  From $43,995
2021 V4U Coachbuilder Limousine 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Professional Price:   -  From $43,995
2021 Luxury 4dr All-Wheel Drive Price:   -  From $45,995
2021 V4U Coachbuilder Limousine 4dr All-Wheel Drive Professional Price:   -  From $45,995
2021 Premium Luxury 4dr Front-Wheel Drive Price:   -  From $48,795
2021 Premium Luxury 4dr All-Wheel Drive Price:   -  From $50,795
2021 Sport 4dr All-Wheel Drive Price:   -  From $55,095
Expert Rating
3.2 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

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Overview

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 TypeHorsepowerTorqueFuel Economy (Combined)
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder235 hp258 lb-ft24 mpg
3.6L V6310 hp271 lb-ft21 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.

Cadillac XT5

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).

Cadillac XT5

Luxury - From $44,990

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.

Premium Luxury - From $49,790

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.

Sport - From $56,090

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

CarsDirect Tip

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.

author image
Automotive Editor
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Expert Review

Pros
  • Good value
  • Lots of great features
  • Decent turbo-four gas mileage
  • Available V-6
Cons
  • V-6 gas mileage
  • V-6 price
  • Styling
  • Performance
Expert Rating
3.2 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Automotive Editor

Long in the tooth. Once upon a time, Cadillac sat smug as the Standard of the World. These days, the venerable automaker has been surpassed by most other luxury marques, and now it's Cadillac that is trying to scramble back towards the top. One of the key players in its bid to return to relevancy is the XT5, a compact crossover that slots in between the smaller XT4 and the three-row XT6.

If the XT5's shape seems vaguely familiar, that's because it is: the body isn't much more than a gently-massaged second-gen SRX. For reference, that model was built from 2010 until the XT5 was released in 2018. Seeing the styling carry on without any major changes has left this Cadillac feeling outdated upon first glance, especially when standouts like the Volvo XC60 and upcoming Genesis GV70 can be nabbed for a similar price.

Tasteful cabin. At least the interior is tastefully modern. While one would assume Cadillac would emulate Mercedes and go all-out in showy details, the cabin features a restrained design. The standard 8.0-inch touchscreen is nicely integrated into the dash, which itself is low-set and helps provide excellent sightlines.

Our only beef with the interior design is the weird, amorphous bit of surface that sort of bumps and folds its away across the driver's half of the dashboard. It doesn't look especially well thought-out; it hardly looks like a finished product. We think that it would've been a better look had the dashboard been allowed to stretch unbroken across the width of the cabin.

Like a proper Cadillac, the big, comfy front seats provide plenty of cushion and support. Do we wish they were button-tufted like the old land yachts of yore? Of course, but times change, and we're just happy the new thrones wear the subtle little V insignia on the seatbacks. We're also happy that right out of the gate Cadillac gives heated front seats and multi-way power adjustability. Good luck finding any similarly-priced Mercedes with standard heated seats.

Tech and safety. Cadillac gives every XT5 an 8.0-inch touchscreen running the latest CUE software. Anyone who remembers CUE when it first came out is probably shuddering right now, but fear not: the latest software is far more refined, to the point that this has become one of our favorite infotainment systems in the segment. It is quick, easy to navigate, and requires minimal effort to use while driving. The new-for-2021 wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto only makes things even better.

We do wish Cadillac made a bigger screen available on the higher-priced cars, however. Remember, this is a crossover that can hit nearly $70,000 with every option checked; to cost that much and only get the same infotainment setup as the base model is a bit insulting to customers paying top dollar. Cadillac already puts 38 inches of screen in the new Escalade; surely high-zoot XT5s deserve at least 10 inches of haptic goodness.

If there's any consolation, it's that plenty of other goodies can be ordered up. Night vision, new for this year, headlines the extravagant extras that are available. Other neat features include a head-up display, navigation, a 14-speaker audio system, and a rear-view camera mirror.

On the safety front, every XT5 gets automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, and active lane control. Moving a bit further up the trim ladder adds blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-change alert. Optional kit includes adaptive cruise control, high-speed forward automatic braking, and rear automatic braking.

The big missing feature from this list is Super Cruise, which Cadillac debuted a year or two ago on the CT6 sedan. It remains one of the best semi-autonomous driving features on the market - but is only just starting to trickle down into lesser Cadillacs. Such a feature would give the XT5 real standing in a highly competitive segment, but we don't expect it to be offered until the next-generation model is released.


Cadillac XT5

Road manners. The XT5 is no CTS-V, even when equipped with the optional V-6. It is marked by acceleration that is more sluggish than slingshot, particularly with the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The standard engine only musters 237 horsepower in a segment where some models come bristling with close to 280 horses from the same displacement. The competition has generally done a better job quelling noise and harshness from their powertrains as well.

The 3.6-liter V-6 is certainly faster, and how the big V-6 delivers power is something of a treat in this era of small turbo engines. We would say it is well worth upgrading to, but unfortunately the XT5 can't be had with it for less than $55,000. At that price point, the crossover is a dubious value, even if it's pushing 310 horsepower and flaunting sportier handling.

About that handling: the V-6 gets adaptive dampers that do a nice job keeping the 20-inch wheels from rattling your fillers out. But ride quality can become flinty over punishing roads, and whatever handling gains come from the V-6's retuned suspension don't turn this into an exciting handler. Overall, the base suspension tuning is fine with us, which is more in tune with the proper Cadillac tradition of comfortable, regal, and unruffled.

The XT5's fuel economy of 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 24 combined in its thriftiest form is about on par with the competition. Buy a Mercedes GLC300 or Volvo XC60 and the figures are nearly identical; a BMW X3 gets 25 mpg city but the same 29 mpg highway. A V-6 XT5 isn't so hot at 18/26/22 mpg; if you're willing to quaff fuel at that rate, there are plenty of fire-breathing, corner-carving crossovers that would be a better choice.

Final thoughts. The Cadillac XT5 is a nice crossover in a sea of great crossovers. It offers plenty of value and gets some great excellent standard and optional features, but in other ways we can't help but be disappointed. Styling, for instance. The mediocre powertrains. The lack of a bigger touchscreen or Super Cruise.

Fine has never cut it among luxury cars, and it won't now. Until the XT5 gets redesigned, it will continue to suffer from just being okay in a segment that demands utmost excellence.

Check prices for the 2021 Cadillac XT5 »

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.0L I-4 / 235 HP / 258 ft.lbs.
Transmission
9-spd sequential shift control auto w/OD
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
22 / 29 / 25 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
5
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.0L I-4 / 235 HP / 258 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Front-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
22 / 29 / 25 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Strut
Rear Suspension
Independent Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Compact Steel / Steel
Fuel Tank
19.0 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$73
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
63.0 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
104 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
189.6 "
Exterior Width
74.9 "
Exterior Height
66.1 "
Front Headroom
39.7 "
Rear Headroom
38.4 "
Front Legroom
41.2 "
Rear Legroom
39.0 "
Front Shoulder Room
58.3 "
Rear Shoulder Room
56.3 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
3,915 Lbs.
Wheel Base
113 "
Turning Radius
20.2 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
18.0 " Silver Aluminum / 20.0 " Black Aluminum / 20.0 " Chrome Aluminum
Paint
Metallic Monotone / Clearcoat Monotone / Tri-coat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote Heated
Bumpers
Front Body-colored With Aluminum Insert / Front Body-colored With Black Insert
Grille Moldings
Chrome / Black
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
5
Seat Trim
Leatherette
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Driver And Front Passenger Heated-cushion, Heated-seatback
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
(8-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
(6-way Power)
Front Armrests
(8-way Power)
Rear Armrests
Center
Rear Seats
60-40 Split-bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Siriusxm Am/fm/satellite, Clock, Seek-scan / Siriusxm Am/fm/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
8 Bose
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Front And Rear
Tinted Windows
Deep
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
2
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Automatic Emergency Braking Forward Collision Mitigation
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keep Assist Lane Departure
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Front Pedestrian Braking Front Pedestrian Detection Prevention
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Intellibeam Auto High-beam
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Front And Rear Park Assist Front And Rear
Security Systems
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
48 Months / 50,000 Miles
Major Components Months
72 Months / 70,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
12 Months / Unlimited Miles
Roadside Assistance Months
72 Months / 70,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation
72 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months

Used 2021 Cadillac XT5 for Sale

13 vehicles found within 50 miles of your area
Cadillac
Premium Luxury
Color: Satin Steel Metallic
Price

$22,000

Mileage

63,929 mi

Map location icon

Anaheim Hyundai (31 mi)

Phone: (833) 214-6621
Cadillac
Premium Luxury
Color: Stellar Black Metallic
Price

$23,000

Mileage

60,900 mi

Map location icon

Anaheim Hyundai (31 mi)

Phone: (833) 214-6621
Cadillac
Luxury
Color: Stellar Black Metallic
Price

$23,596

Mileage

41,661 mi

Map location icon

W.I. Simonson, Inc. (9 mi)

Cadillac
Premium Luxury
Color: Satin Steel Metallic
Price

$25,788

Mileage

61,098 mi

Map location icon

Boulevard Cadillac Buick GMC (16 mi)

Phone: (562) 492-1000
See All Used Car Listings

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