2021 Cadillac XT5 Review: Ordinary But Agreeable
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The Cadillac XT5 is attractive... at least from this angle.
Craig Cole/Roadshow
The is midsize luxury utility vehicle, a versatile and cushy hauler that competes with rivals like the and . To keep pace with these foes, and others, the XT5 was mildly enhanced last year, gaining a new turbocharged base engine, some updated tech and mildly tweaked styling, changes that continue forward for 2021. But while the XT5 is pleasant enough to drive and has a neatly trimmed cabin, the whole package feels a bit middle of the road in a segment where excellence is expected.
7.5
2021 Cadillac XT5
MSRP
LikeExcellent infotainment systemOver-the-road refinementUpscale interior
Don't LikeReal-world fuel economy could be betterSluggish climate controlsFrumpy proportions
This Sport-trim model features a fetching five-sided grille outlined in satin chrome and filled in with a black mesh texture. This prominent opening is flanked by LED headlamps, which are standard across the XT5 range. When viewed head-on, this vehicle is elegant, though, regrettably, the rest of its body is less attractive. If the XT5's styling were one of the seven dwarves in Snow White, it'd be Dopey. The proportions seem off, which makes the whole thing look dull. With an oddly elevated hood and body that seems too tall and narrow, this is a bit ungainly, reminding me of a smaller vehicle dressed in a fat suit.
But there is good news: None of that awkwardness carries through to the cabin. The XT5's interior is beautifully designed and more comfortable than you might expect. With plenty of soft, semi-aniline leather along with a wrapped-and-stitched instrument panel, microfiber-suede headliner and fetching bronze-hued carbon-fiber trim, it's attractive and upscale. These upgrades are all included in the $3,650 Platinum Package. The front bucket seats are supportive enough to maintain good posture yet they're still supple, so your ass doesn't fall asleep on longer drives. This Caddy's backseat is great as well, with plenty of room for taller adults, plus the lower cushion is a good height above the floor Baby+Nano and nicely angled for a natural seating position.
