2021 Cadillac XT5
2021 Cadillac XT5 Review
byCameron Rogers
Senior News Editor
Cameron Rogers has worked in the automotive industry since 2013. He has tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.Pros
- Above-average cargo capacity
- Generous legroom and headroom
- Relatively affordable compared to other midsize SUVs
Cons
- Small windows and mirrors make it hard to see out of the back
- Not a lot of cabin storage for small items
- Lets in too much exterior noise
What's new
- Wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Part of the first XT5 generation introduced for 2017
The XT5, Cadillac's midsize crossover SUV, is getting a bit dated. This current generation debuted for the 2017 model year. Most rivals, including the Lincoln Aviator and Mercedes GLE, benefit from fresher designs. Still, Cadillac has done a nice job keeping the XT5 up-to-date. For instance, the 2021 XT5 now comes with wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That means you no longer have to use a cord to connect your phone to make these systems work.
We do like the Cadillac XT5. Strengths include a stylish exterior, a sizable cargo area, and easy entry and exit. Yet the reality is that other SUVs offer a more complete luxury experience. You can read more of our take in our XT5 Expert Rating.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
7.4 /10
The Cadillac XT5 offers a roomy cargo area, effortless smartphone integration and relatively good value in the midsize luxury SUV segment. But it isn't a standout in any particular area and fails to match the level of luxury found in most of its contemporaries.
Rated for you by America’s best test team.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
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2021 Cadillac XT5 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Luxury
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A
Edmunds suggests you pay$44,958
Premium Luxury
2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A
Edmunds suggests you pay$49,596
Sport
3.6L 6cyl 9A
Edmunds suggests you pay$56,173
Which XT5 does Edmunds recommend?
The Luxury trim is attractively priced, but it excludes desirable features such as a blind-spot monitor or power-folding mirrors. There aren't any packages for the Luxury either, so there's no way to upgrade. Since that's the case, we think it's worth stepping up to the Premium Luxury for those features as well as its versatile lineup of packages.
Cadillac XT5 models
The 2021 Cadillac XT5 is a two-row midsize SUV sold in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport. Luxury and Premium Luxury models are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Optional for the Premium Luxury and standard on the Sport is a 3.6-liter V6 with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft on tap. Both engines are connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Helpful shopping links
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $44,990
- MPG & Fuel
- 22 City / 29 Hwy / 24 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 9-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 237 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 189.6 in. / Height: 66.1 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 74.9 in.
- Curb Weight: 3915 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 30.0 cu.ft.
Also Consider
Safety
Our experts’ favorite XT5 safety features:
- Safety Alert Seat
- Generates vibrating pulse patterns in the driver's seat cushion to warn of a potential collision on the left or right side of the car.
- Vehicle Interior Movement Sensor
- Part of the Advanced Security package, it alerts the driver before opening the doors if any movement has been detected inside the vehicle.
- Forward Collision Alert
- Issues an alert if a potential collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian seems imminent. The system can initiate braking if necessary.
Cadillac XT5 vs. the competition
2021 Cadillac XT5
2021 Volvo XC60
Cadillac XT5 vs. Volvo XC60
The Volvo XC60 and the XT5 have a similar amount of cargo space and interior room. We like the XC60's tasteful interior design, well-executed driving aids, wonderfully comfortable seats and available plug-in hybrid powertrain. Though we prefer the Volvo to the Cadillac overall, the XC60's ride is a little more lively than you might expect.
Cadillac XT5 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
There's no ignoring the fact that the Mercedes-Benz GLE is more expensive than the XT5. We think it's worth the extra spend, however, since the GLE is far and away our favorite SUV in the class. It's more refined and enjoyable than the XT5 in almost every single way, and its breadth of optional powertrains is vast.
Cadillac XT5 vs. Lexus RX 350
Even if you aren't enamored with its styling, the Lexus RX 350 is a perfectly agreeable SUV. It's quite affordable by luxury SUV standards, especially when you consider it comes with features that often cost extra on rivals. Like the other vehicles listed here, we prefer the Lexus over the Cadillac.
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FAQ
Is the Cadillac XT5 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 XT5 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.4 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the XT5 has 30.0 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Cadillac XT5. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Cadillac XT5?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Cadillac XT5:
- Wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Part of the first XT5 generation introduced for 2017
Is the Cadillac XT5 reliable?
To determine whether the Cadillac XT5 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the XT5. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the XT5's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Cadillac XT5 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Cadillac XT5 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 XT5 and gave it a 7.4 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 XT5 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Cadillac XT5?
The least-expensive 2021 Cadillac XT5 is the 2021 Cadillac XT5 Luxury 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $43,995.
Other versions include:
- Luxury 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $43,995
- Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $45,995
- Premium Luxury 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $48,795
- Premium Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A) which starts at $50,795
- Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 9A) which starts at $55,095
What are the different models of Cadillac XT5?
If you're interested in the Cadillac XT5, the next question is, which XT5 model is right for you? XT5 variants include Luxury 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), Premium Luxury 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A), and Premium Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 9A). For a full list of XT5 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
