We had the opportunity to experience the all-new XT5 during Monterey’s annual Car Week, it gave us an extensive understanding of just how remarkable the vehicle is. The car’s lightweight construction allows for dexterous handling, which is bolstered by a 3.6-litre V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission with an electronic shifter. Although many reviews described the XT5’s electronic shifter as difficult to use, we found it to be quite simple. The XT5 crossover was made to assist the driver with any task they are in the middle of, as it offers reinvented versatility that helps keep the driver stay in complete control at all times, major convenience features included the great heads up display and CUE infotainment system; one area that we hope Cadillac improves on is the addition of a button free door unlocking option, like in the XT5’s German and English Revivals.
It’s expansive sized interior incorporates advanced technological features to maintain passenger safety, whilst demonstrating sleek, chiseled exterior lines; making it both inside and out progressive yet elegant. The XT5’s interior quality is a major upgrade from the SRX, and proves to be superior to its rivals in quality. Our test vehicle was equipped with the range topping Platinum Package which featured an alcantara headliner, front facia and plush leather seats.
While on the road, the XT5 drives effortlessly; it steers and handles swiftly without any complications. The XT5’s 3.6-liter V6 engine provides nimble acceleration as it produces 310 hp (231 kW) and 271 lb·ft (367 N·m) torque. At the test track, the XT5 accomplished the zero-to-60-mph run in 6.6 seconds. The instruments aboard XT5 such as it’s CUE infotainment system that utilizes a responsive 8.0-inch high-resolution touchscreen, as well as 4G connectivity, or tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 8 inch display made parallel parking during the week incredibly convenient with the cars brilliant 360 degree view from the car’s four cameras.
On our test drive our XT5 let us know of fire engines on scene nearby albeit a few moments prior to spotting them. The Adaptive Cruise Control made our driver a little nervous at first, being someone who enjoys the total (being in control) driving experience, but passing responsibility to the adaptive cruise soon became quite a nice experience. Given the choice of Touring mode or Sport mode, hands down Sport mode was most responsive and fun, our recommendation is to drive in Sport mode full-time. The Navigation experience kept us up-to-date with current road conditions and alternate time-saving routes. Our highway driving gave us better than expected, 31 mpg, but around town during car week with some unusually slow and go, we calculated around 13 mpg. Overall we were pleased with the gas milage of the XT5.
The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system and electronically operated rear differential flawlessly distributes torque both to stabilize traction and augment handling. In addition, the system can distribute 100 percent of torque to the front or rear axle as needed, while the differential is capable of dividing the rear axle’s allotment left to right transferring all power to one wheel. This exceptional piece of added technology ensures safety and security to its passengers as its highest priority.
The 2017 Cadillac XT5’s spacious cabin boasts heated and ventilated seats along with a range of adjustment settings such as lumbar support for the driver. The rear seats smoothly recline and slide forwards and backwards; a 40/20/40 split-folding seatback offers rear seat passengers extensibility at its most convenient. The cavernous cargo hold is very extensive, especially so when all three rear seats are down, which creates up to 63 cubic feet of cargo room. In addition, the front cabin offers extensive storage space beneath the center console, door pockets, and large glove box. Another highlight is the premium Bose stereo, which was superb in every area including clarity, base, and power.
With an economical starting price of just under $40,000 and pricing for the top of the range Platinum model at $63,000, the XT5 proves to not only be practical and cost-effective but also a vehicle that truly defines the word “luxury”. Our car’s MSRP was $67,155 and included a couple of additional options on top of the Platinum package such as the Driver Assist Package, which offers a range of safety features including Automatic Park Assist and Pedestrian Detection. The comforting yet luxurious interior design, in which allows passengers to undergo an immensely enjoyable ride with its elegant inner presence, creates the perfect on-the-road experience. The XT5 is the true definition of a Cadillac.
For more information on the Cadillac XT5 or to configure your own model please visit: Cadillac.com
