The XT5 demonstrates the luxurious style that has been a trademark of Cadillac as buyer trends continue to favor SUVs over sedans. As the company’s best-seller in 2020, the XT5 continues to be the gem in the automaker’s crown as the only model in their lineup to earn the blessing of Consumer Reports in 2021.

Owning any luxury SUV comes at a price, but you will have to look for a higher trim package rather than a standard trim for true luxury if you choose the 2021 Cadillac XT5. Those who hope to save some cash due to the higher price tag while getting what they pay for might want to consider other XT5 competitors in the 2021 midsize luxury SUV class.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 has plenty of features that will excite

There are still plenty of features available on the Cadillac XT5 to get excited about despite it sitting at the bottom of the MotorTrend list of midsize luxury SUVs in 2021. This includes decent performance, comfort and handling, adequate space, and user-friendly infotainment.

Like its older sibling, the XT6, the XT5 offers two powertrain packages that are adequate for the platform, showcasing a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 237 hp and 258 lb-ft torque, giving 21/26-28 mpg on its base package. The same 3.6-liter V6 with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft torque, featured in the Camaro, is found in the second package, but with a dismal fuel economy of 18/25-26 mpg.

Comfort and handling remain positive attributes of the Cadillac XT5 due to a suspension system capable of delivering a quiet, comfortable ride with minimal body roll. Plenty of legroom at 41.2 inches is available up front, and a generous 39.0 inches for passengers are positive attributes. The XT5’s cargo space is competitive, showcasing 30.2 cubic feet with rear seats up and 63.0 cubic feet with them down.

Active and passive safety features on the 2021 XT5 continue to receive IIHS “good” and “superior” ratings. Drivers won’t divert their attention from the road to struggle with a mediocre infotainment system because the XT5 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is very intuitive.

Are there better options in the same class as the Cadillac XT5?

While Cadillac enthusiasts can continue to sing the XT5’s praises, obvious interior cost-cutting and an odd mixture of materials used in the cabin are major drawbacks to getting the true luxury buyers in this class expect to receive for their investment. The XT5 features an unrefined 9-speed automatic transmission that is a bit hesitant when downshifting.

The need to upgrade to premium trim packages to get the true luxury demanded by buyers in this class is perhaps the most difficult shortcoming of the XT5. Where midsize luxury in competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus RX, and Land Rover Defender might cost more, their base models offer equal or more luxury features that are only available in premium trim levels of the XT5.

Essentially, those looking for true luxury in a midsize SUV can find it in the base models of Lincoln, Mercedes, Lexus, Land Rover, Porsche, and BMW models at a lower price than you will pay for premium packages of the 2021 Cadillac XT5.

Take a close look at the competitors before giving the nod to the XT5

Though Cadillac has maintained a reputation among luxury sedans throughout its history, it seems the brand name is struggling to stay among the leaders in its class of midsize luxury SUVs with the 2021 XT5. The XT5 has some redeemable qualities. You are apt to get more value for each dollar you spend when you invest in one of XT5’s competitors in 2021.