The 2021 Cadillac XT5 Does A Lot of Things Right
The new 2021 Cadillac XT5 checks all the boxes when it comes to power, performance, and pricing. Larger than most compact crossover vehicles, the Cadillac XT5 makes great use of its space. The cargo area is better than any other crossover in its class.
The characteristic Cadillac style is apparent in the cabin, which offers a comfortable and quiet ride. Where it stands out among competitors is in the use of high-quality materials. It is an appealing choice in a crowded market segment, with smart design and styling inside and out.
There are not a lot of negative things to say about the Cadillac XT5. The manufacturer has taken this vehicle to new levels, and consumers are sure to be impressed.
The 2021 Cadillac XT5
The luxury crossover blurs the line when it comes to midsize versus three-row SUVs. The Cadillac XT5 fits nicely between the Cadillac XT4 and the Cadillac XT6 in the product line, creating what AutoTrader refers to as “vague middle ground.”
There are three trim levels for the XT5. The entry-level Luxury trim has a starting price of $44,990. The middle of the pack Premium Luxury starts at $49,790, and the fully-loaded Sport trim has an MSRP of $56,090.
The entry-level Luxury and Premium Luxury trims are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 237 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway. The range-topping Sport trim has a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. The V6 is also optional in the Premium Luxury model.
The EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined. The Sport version utilizes a standard dual-clutch all-wheel-drive system, while the Premium Luxury has standard front-wheel drive. A 9-speed automatic transmission is paired with both engines, and there is a stop/start function while idling for better fuel consumption.
There are plenty of things to like about the new Cadillac XT5
New for 2021 in the XT5 is that the integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now not only wireless but standard as well. The Sport trim includes a new option for 20-inch alloy wheels. There are also several new paint colors available that include Infrared Tintcoat, Dark Moon Blue Metallic, and Wilder Metallic. The standard infotainment system technology is state-of-the-art with a touchscreen interface.
There is a huge cargo area in the XT5 that appeals to consumers looking for extra space for hauling. The best in class space offers 30 cubic feet, which is generous compared to other compact crossovers that offer 20 cubic feet of cargo space. When the back seats are down, the cargo-carrying capacity jumps to an astonishing 63 cubic feet.
Second-row occupants are afforded generous legroom with a reclining seat for added comfort. AutoTrader did find the space to be a little confining due to the limited all-around vision.
Cadillac didn’t give us much to complain about
As mentioned, there isn’t much to dislike about the 2021 Cadillac XT5.
When looking at the Cadillac XT5, there were only a few minor features that AutoTrader didn’t enjoy. The panoramic sunroof, which is standard in the top two trims, reduces headroom and could prove bothersome for taller passengers. They also noted a lack of adequate vision, which isn’t great for the driver. It is worth noting that the limited rearward vision can be corrected by the blind-spot monitoring available in the Premium Luxury trim.
Safety abounds in this luxury vehicle. The OnStar emergency communication system, all-around airbags, parking sensors, and a rearview camera make the XT5 a class leader for safety features. The NHTSA gives the 2021 Cadillac XT5 a five-out-of-five-star rating for the standard safety features that are offered. The IIHS gave the XT5 top marks in both safety crash test categories.
