10 Things You Need to Know About the 2017 Cadillac XT5

2017 Cadillac XT5 exterior hero ・ Photo by Miles Branman

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 replaces the outgoing SRX as a midsize luxury crossover. The new XT5 borrows design elements from the latest Cadillac models, including the CTS and CT6 sedans. Built upon a fresh platform that will underpin future models, the XT5 touts a lightweight architecture, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and a plush cabin.

Cadillac’s SRX has been the brand’s best-selling model of late, with 100,000 units sold in 2015, which means the XT5 replacment is critical for the marque to make continued headway against contemporary rivals like BMW, Audi, Porsche, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. Buyers in this segment aren’t as hungry for bargains, so Cadillac’s new crossover will need to prove its merits beyond a lower sticker price. Here are 10 things you need to know about the 2017 Cadillac XT5.

1) It has a lightweight platform.

Highlighting the 2017 Cadillac XT5’s improvements over its SRX predecessor is an all-new modular architecture. This lightweight and durable platform helped the XT5 shed nearly 300 lb. compared to the SRX, which puts the XT5’s curb weight at over 600 lb. less than Mercedes-Benz’s rivaling GLE350.

In addition to lightening the crossover’s chassis, Cadillac has improved the structure to be safer in accidents while also being more rigid, which helps the XT5 in handling maneuvers. Of note, the wheelbase is up 2.0 inches compared to the SRX, which benefits rear seat legroom by a substantial 3.2 inches.

Photo by Miles Branman

2) It has improved design, but is that enough?

While Cadillac’s 2016 SRX is a a competent luxury crossover, its exterior design looks dated compared to German and Japanese rivals. The new 2017 XT5 dramatically improves the look, with a front end that's sleek and rich, among the best designs in its class. The styling is less exciting as your eyes move rearward, but nothing about the XT5’s physique can be considered unattractive.

Cadillac continues to struggle with making a cohesive rear fascia. Unfortunately, the 2017 XT5’s shapely, soft curves come to a rather abrupt point at the rear, as in the entry-level ATS coupe and sedan. The 2017 XT5 is an improvement over the outgoing SRX, but we're not sure if it's attractive enough to lure luxury shoppers away from the European makes and into the Cadillac dealer.

Photo by Miles Branman

3) It has a beautiful cabin.

Inside the XT5’s cabin, Cadillac’s designers more than redeem themselves for the underwhelming exterior. Not only is the layout eloquent, it is the cleanest design of any crossover on the market. Its minimalistic approach allows the rich leather, fine wood, and brushed metal to capture its occupant's eyes. Every touch point is swathed in soft leather, every switch or button has been perfectly formed, and every seating surface is stupendously comfortable.

A large panoramic sunroof complements the feeling of spaciousness within the XT5. Both front and rear passengers have ample room to spread out. Like all of the XT5’s direct competitors, this Cadillac comes only in a 5-seat configuration, but with more cargo capacity than its rivals. With the rear seat in place, the XT5 houses 30 cubic ft. of cargo; with it stowed, that capacity jumps up to 63.

Photo by Miles Branman

4) It has a new engine.

Powering the 2017 Cadillac XT5 is a new 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 that includes variable valve timing, cylinder-shutdown, and auto stop-start technology. Power is rated at 310 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque, regardless of trim. Every XT5 comes with a single transmission option: an 8-speed automatic.

This modern direct-injected engine has an aluminum block and cylinder heads, which contribute to the XT5’s lighter curb weight. More efficient than the SRX, the XT5 manages EPA fuel economy numbers of 19 MPG city/27 MPG highway/22 MPG in FWD configuration or 18/26/21 with AWD. These figures are on par with the XT5’s competition.

Photo by Miles Branman

5) It has sophisticated all-wheel-drive.

Entry-level XT5 crossovers feature a new front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration, but Cadillac offers AWD for an additional $2495. It's a sophisticated system that sends power where needed and includes torque-vectoring technology that can split torque left to right.

Cadillac includes three drive modes with AWD-equipped models. Tour applies power exclusively to the front wheels unless the XT5 detects slip, Sport employs all four wheels and the torque vectoring system, and Snow/Ice defaults to AWD handling. Aided by the XT5’s stiffer platform, Cadillac’s AWD setup gives drivers confidence in all-weather conditions and during aggressive maneuvers.

Photo by Miles Branman

6) It's super smooth.

Cadillac has never struggled to craft vehicles with sublime ride quality, and the XT5 is no exception. The luxury crossover absolutely floats over both rough and smooth terrain, soaking up imperfections in the road surface without transferring them to passengers. A silent cabin and soft seats complement the supple ride for a truly luxurious experience.

Although the XT5’s AWD system affords drivers a sense of engagement and control, it’s far more pleasant to ease into the crossover’s serene driving behavior. While rival vehicles stiffen their suspensions to promote a sense of sportiness, the XT5 sticks to its guns as a truly comfortable form of transportation.

Photo by General Motors

7) It has the latest version of CUE.

Cadillac’s proprietary infotainment system has drawn its fair share of ire over the years, but the latest generation is more than competent. A sharp display houses a quick processor and intuitive operations, including Apple Carplay and Android Auto. In an effort to keep the dashboard clean, the only button redundancies are for climate control, while every other function can be accessed through voice commands or through CUE’s touch controls.

Regrettably, the driver instrument cluster of the 2017 Cadillac XT5 isn’t nearly as impressive. Dull analog gauges and a small, grainy TFT display are uninspiring, especially compared to some of the fully digital units in other luxury models.

Photo by Miles Branman

8) It has a rear view camera mirror.

In the XT5’s top of the line Platinum trim, buyers are treated to Cadillac’s innovative rear camera mirror. This industry-first piece of technology uses a camera system to overlay a visual on the rearview mirror without any blind spots. At the touch of a button, the display can switch between a normal mirror and the digital display.

This setup feels far more natural than a backup camera shown on the center stack infotainment display, and it also gives drivers a greater field of view. While it’s only available on top-tier trims of the Cadillac XT5 and CT6, there’s a good chance this option will be available on lower spec models soon.

Photo by General Motors

9) It has four trim packages.

The entry-level 2017 Cadillac XT5 is priced from $39,990, including a destination fee. Standard features include Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system with an 8.0-inch display, dual-zone automatic climate control, 18-inch wheels, a subscription to Onstar, and a 4G LTE hotspot. The $45,890 Luxury trim adds front and rear parking assist, rear cross-traffic alert, a panoramic sunroof, and heated front passenger seats.

As a step up, buyers can choose the Premium Luxury spec for $52,890. Included is a 14-speaker Bose Surround Sound System, ventilated front passenger seats, automatic front braking assist, a performance suspension with active damping, and 20-inch wheels. Finally, the range-topping Platinum trim, at $63,495, includes all-wheel drive, heated rear seats, tri-zone climate control, rear camera mirror, head-up display, surround vision camera display, hands-free power liftgate, and unique 20-inch wheels.

Photo by Miles Branman

10) Its competive set is large and talented.

Standing in the 2017 Cadillac XT5’s path to success is an imposing group of luxury competitors. The BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Lexus RX, and Lincoln MKX are ally vying for the attention of affluent shoppers who are drawn to the higher riding position and better utility of a crossover. Each of these vehicles starts at around $40K mark, and each offers innovative safety and convenience features in a smart, attractive body.

While many modern Cadillac sedans have exceeded their German and Japanese counterparts, the XT5 doesn’t quite take a lead in its segment. It is, however, a significant improvement over the outgoing SRX and a worthy rival to elite luxury crossovers. Handsome styling, a gorgeous interior, and plush ride quality are among the XT5’s best traits.

Photo by Miles Branman