2019 Cadillac XT5 Review
Used XT5 for sale
Appraise This Car
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review
byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
- Combines a soft, pleasant ride with tight and controlled handling
- Interior space is generous, larger than most rivals
- Seats are built for long-haul -- and long-commute -- comfort
Cons
- Only offers one engine
- most rivals offer two or more
- Tech interface frustrates with clunky voice controls and gimmicks
- Small windows and mirrors make it hard to see out the back
What's new
- New standard safety features and driver aids on upper trim levels
- Larger, higher-output wireless device charging pad
- Part of the first XT5 generation introduced for 2017
With a striking interior and exterior design, the 2019 Cadillac XT5 stands out from its more conservatively styled rivals. Its broad, angular front end and finlike taillights echo classic Caddy themes, while vertical LED accent lights reinforce that the XT5 is very much a modern Cadillac made for today's crossover world. It's also bigger and more substantial than many of the compact luxury SUVs it frequently gets compared to, making it a sort of in-between choice in terms of size, stature and price.
For 2019, the XT5 adds certain safety aids such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control as standard features on upper trims (previously they were options). New wheel designs and upgraded wireless phone charging round out the updates.
Although the XT5 cuts a handsome figure, it doesn't particularly excel in any one area. Some interior design choices, for example, impede space and usability, but none are major shortcomings. Overall, we think the XT5's distinctive styling, roomy interior and cushy ride make it a compelling alternative to its more established European, Japanese and American rivals.
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury (3.6L V6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.6 / 10 |
| Driving | 7.5 |
| Comfort | 7.0 |
| Interior | 7.0 |
| Utility | 7.5 |
| Technology | 8.0 |
Driving
7.5The XT5 delivers a confident and reassuring driving experience when it comes to the way it steers, grips the road and brakes to a stop. It's not terribly quick, but the engine and transmission deliver enough sauce to get the job done. But those with a heavy right foot may disagree.
Comfort
7.0The XT5 is suitably comfortable. Seat comfort is a high point, and the ride is smooth, well-mannered and never feels bouncy. But it isn't as quiet as it ought to be, particularly at low speeds around town where engine accessory drive noises are evident.
Interior
7.0It's attractive and modern-looking at first glance, but the styling priorities reduce control simplicity and compromise outward visibility. And while the XT5 offers generous head- and legroom up front, it does not feel all that spacious across the width of the cabin, particularly at the elbows.
Utility
7.5We found the XT5's main cargo hold to be well-shaped and accommodating, though we can't say the same about the small-item storage in the front of the cabin. The high point is a hidden purse cubby, but the center console is not nearly as big inside as it appears outside.
Technology
8.0The touchscreen audio and navigation system seems more responsive than previous iterations, and the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is transformative. The standard voice controls aren't very compelling, but the system defers to Apple and Android commands if properly synced.
Which XT5 does Edmunds recommend?
While the XT5 base trim offers a nice complement of essential features and luxuries, we suggest stepping up one level for the Luxury trim. It costs several thousand dollars more but comes with heated seats, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and several driver aids. It also offers many more options. Next up the ladder is the Premium Luxury trim, but it's not a substantial upgrade given the price. Its adaptive suspension is nice, but the 20-inch wheels contribute to a rougher ride than the Luxury trim's smaller wheels.
2019 Cadillac XT5 models
The 2019 Cadillac XT5 is a five-passenger SUV available in four trim levels: XT5 (base), Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum. A 3.6-liter V6 engine (310 horsepower, 271 pound-feet of torque), an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive are standard across the lineup. All-wheel drive is optional on all but the base trim and comes standard on the top Platinum trim.