Cadillac can build capable, fun-to-drive sedans. But the brand's SUVs lack the same magic. The Cadillac XT5 is a descendant of the SRX but it’s neither here nor there. Battling a field of worthy competitors, the XT5 isn't as rewarding to drive as a German luxury SUV, nor does it pamper owners like a Lexus RX.
With the uplevel 3.6-liter V6 engine we got 20 mpg overall with the older eight-speed automatic. Power is linear and the engine revs smoothly, but it lacks the effortless motivation afforded by competitors' turbocharged engines, such as the Lincoln MKX's available 2.7-liter V6. The XT5 always feels a bit lethargic. For 2020 a new 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder might actually feel more responsive in daily driving.
While the XT5 is impressively quiet inside, the suspension is too stiff to deliver a ride that even resembles a luxury vehicle. Such a hard ride is at odds with the XT5’s target audience, and it is a notable deficiency compared to the competition. Top trim versions with the continuously adjusting suspension offer a less choppy ride, despite having larger wheels and tires.
On the bright side, the XT5 feels solid and planted through corners. Body lean is kept in check, and the SUV remained secure even when pushed to its limits around our test track.
Superbly comfortable front seats supply long-trip support, and the rest of the interior is impeccably finished. The Platinum trim level feels extra rich, being awash with wood, chrome, leather, and detailed stitching. Lowlights include a skewed driving position due to the too-close left foot rest, and a driver’s seat that makes due with just two-way lumbar adjustment. Another cheap touch is the lack of an auto-up feature for the rear windows.
Cadillac's touch-screen infotainment system has been improved, letting drivers perform tasks through the screen or a center control knob.
The XT5 employs a rakish look that proves challenging for driver visibility. The chunky rear roof pillars and small back window wreak havoc with rear vision, and thick front windshield pillars create front blind spots.
Starting with the 2020 model year, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance are standard. Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning is standard on all but base model. Higher trims offer a Driver Assist package that adds adaptive cruise control, self-parking capability, and automatic braking when reversing.
Ultimately the clunky ride, fussy controls, and the V6's lethargic feel take away from the XT5's attractiveness.