MotorWeek | Road Test: 2017 Cadillac XT5

Cadillac is as guilty as anybody for kicking off the large luxury SUV craze. Remember the first 1999 Escalade? Yet, Cadillac was slow to follow the market shift to luxury crossovers. So, even though their mid-size SRX is top seller for the brand, it lacks the wide spread critical praise of their cars. So, let’s see if that changes as Caddy’s reboots their crossover strategy with the all-new XT5.
Although on an all-new chassis, don’t think of the 2017 Cadillac XT5 as an all-new concept. Rather, it’s a continuation of what the SRX started; luxurious, tech-savvy transportation for 5, but this time with driving dynamics that more closely match their key German and Asian rivals.
Whether you’re a fan of the Crossover Touring re-naming strategy or not, hopefully Cadillac will stay consistent with it; as they expand from this midsize XT5 to, perhaps, a 3-row XT7, and compact XT3.
As for the XT5, it wears a face that’s a taller version of Caddy’s new flagship CT6 sedan. Both head and tail lighting have vertical orientation.
There’s less departure along the rest of the exterior, where some shades of SRX and even Chevrolet Equinox remain in profile and in the rear. Our Red Passion Tintcoated Luxury model had excellent paint quality.
Compared to the SRX, there are 2-inches of added wheelbase; yet overall length is almost an inch shorter. It is also slightly taller and narrower. Standard wheels are 18s; 20s are optional.
But, driving is where you notice the biggest XT to SRX changes. Street and highway ride and handling are clearly not old-school Caddy. It’s decidedly European, even borderline stiff; yet compliant enough to eagerly soak up bumps softly. Following a recent and welcomed GM trend, close to 300-lbs. has been shaved and you feel the added responsiveness at every turn of the nicely weighted electric steering.
There’s no Euro-style turbo-4 power under the hood however, at least here in the U.S.; as Caddy’s LGX version of GM’s 3.6-liter V6 is the only choice.
And it’s a very decent one, delivering 310-horsepower and 271 lb-ft. of torque seamlessly; working well with the standard 8-speed automatic transmission. They make a good combo as long you’re not looking for an all-out performance ute.
Front-drive is standard, with a new twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system optional. It can send full power front or rear, as well as left or right at the rear axle. Slippery roads are its forte, but we found this flexible setup to be a welcomed aid in dry handling as well. Or, switch it off for best fuel economy.
Inside, is a clean, simple, attractive design very similar to flagship CT6; with no shortage of tech and luxury touches. Trim, whether traditional wood or sportier bright-work, is exceptional.
You can chose from quite a few light or dark themes, our favorite being the classy Jet Black. And there’s much small item storage space around.
But we have to subtract a few points after dealing with the latest CUE infotainment system. It is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and we love that. But after a long day of getting frustrated with the gesture controls, we could think of only one final gesture to give it. Caddy please give us a knob or two!
The gauge panel is not quite as tech-heavy as CT6, but still a nice info-heavy array, with the now-expected reconfigurable setup.
The front seats look great but need work. We found them hard, yet still lacking in all-day support.
Thanks to the extra wheelbase, the rear seat provides great leg room; not always a high point of this class. It slides and reclines too. Still head room can be tight thanks to an intrusive panoramic glass roof.
E-shifters are “en vogue” these days, and Caddy’s has logical and precise movement. A backup camera is standard, the CT6’s Rear Camera Mirror, and a full suite of active safety features are optional.
Rear seat up cargo capacity is good at 30.0 cu.-ft. Fold the 40/20/40 seatbacks to expand it to 63.0 cu.-ft. A cargo management system is available. Maximum trailer tow is the expected 3,500-lbs.
Government Fuel Economy Ratings for front-wheel-drive are 19-City, 27-Highway, and 22-Combined. For an average Energy Impact Score of 15.0-barrels of annual oil consumption and 6.5-tons of CO2 emissions.
XT5 base pricing is $39,990 for front-wheel drive. All-wheel-drive can be added to mid-level trims for $2,495 more, but it comes standard with the $63,495 top-level Platinum.
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 will have a hard time standing out in the crowded luxury crossover segment. But truth be told, the retiring SRX actually did quite well with what it had, and we think the XT5 will do even better. It provides more luxury, more tech, and yes, a much more satisfying driving experience. It should appeal equally to both long-time and first-time luxury buyers, and bodes well for a future full lineup of crossover Cadillacs.

[@michaelmartonick5155]

This is by far the most beautiful and luxurious of all current SUV's. Wake up America, more bang for your buck, Caddy is back!

[@ELP1125]

Haha that interior is very lackluster tho. Also Cadillac isn’t known to be the most reliable.

[@spinjob3]

Bought Platinum model one about a month ago, Love it, had srx this one is heads above the srx. Very comfortable, handling great.

[@NYCTeamZ]

I grew up listening to this guy.

[@McCallahanIndustries]

Shout out to the legend John Davis. I watched a MotorWeek Caddy vid from 30 years ago and he was still doing great reviews.

[@davidaubin3902]

Yes he's still a great host and narrator for the road and comparison tests

[@michaelnobles2643]

I’m not an SUV guy, but I would do this one. It looks very nice and luxurious enough to compete with the BMWs and Mercedes-Benzs of the world

[@waynejohnson1304]

I never had a problem with the CUE system. I had it mastered 5 minutes after getting into the car. It is also safer to use than those systems on the German cars because your pushing the icons at eye level with the road. With the German systems, you have to dial in what mode you want. It is borderline dangerous to do while driving. With the CUE, all you have to do is push the radio icon and swipe the volume level. It is 10Xs easier and safer to use than those found on the German cars.

[@lounge2fly2]

When is Cadillac going to start naming their cars again? Only the Escalade has a name anymore. Why automakers think they need to copy German naming is beyond me. XT5, XT7, XT3?!?!? So freaking boring. Eldorado, Seville, Deville... Meant something. Legend, vigor, integra. Even non car people know what those are. Nowadays to be luxury you just need a letter and a number. Cmon guys... Let's bring back the classic names!

[@estebanposadaduque6415]

... absolute agree ... Ford ... Renault ...Kia ... Chevrolet ... the four leaders in my country use NAMES ...

[@PuppetMaster-kb9sx]

Agree 100%. Bentley and Rolls-Royce have no problem with actual names for their cars (instead of garbled Alphanumerics), so why should we? American car companies are making very good cars again. There is no need to continue copying the European/Asian alphabet soup for our production luxury cars. Now that we see that the Continental name has made a return, I hope Lincoln (and Cadillac) sees this as an opportunity to change their naming convention back to when names actually gave us a sense of what we were actually talking about.

[@johnls39]

For the complainers and whiners who complain about the gauge cluster, give-me-a-break! As long the gauges work and indicates what the vehicle is doing is more than enough. The gauges in person is not bad at all and I driven this vehicle thru the dealership invitation and the car is an overall complete package to be in.

[@michaelmartonick5155]

Far more beautiful than it's competitors, more bang for your buck, nothing like a Caddy! Stop wasting your money on overpriced, overrated imports...

[@PuppetMaster-kb9sx]

Your posts, indeed, come across as very regal. Too bad you were duped into overpaying for your Volkswagen. Has there been a week in your ownership of it where you hadn't have to completely overhaul the electrical system(s)? Don't be sore just because we have a President who actually has America's best interests in mind!

[@michaelmartonick5155]

Glorified VW, another overpriced piece of s___!

[@simondehn3252]

You never drove a German car then. This car is crap compared to them.

[@filthyanimal874]

@@simondehn3252 when German cars aren’t at the repair shop they’re cool

[@ELP1125]

@@filthyanimal874 when American made cars aren’t on the back of a tow truck, they’re cool too

[@ohmywrd]

Those base gauges have got to go. They look very 90s GM. Also, why no side turn signal repeaters on the mirrors or fenders? Almost every luxury maker has those. Otherwise, this seems to be a nice and welcome entry. The overall interior looks way nicer than the RX.

[@ohmywrd]

+K.C.'s RC Lets calm down, no need for profanities eesh. lol. They could do a better job on the base gauges though. The X3 and GLC have more tasteful gauges in their base model. Of course the Platinum is going to have the nice gauges.

[@kjrehberg]

This video is sadly missing your 0-60 and quarter mile test of this vehicle. Great video otherwise!

[@NileshR12]

The XT5 is actually a compact crossover. It’s not a midsize crossover even though it might look like it now with the XT4 & XT6 in the lineup. The XT4 is a subcompact luxury CUV

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

Even my friends BMW X5 has a longer Wheelbase.

[@gchard]

Traded up from an SRX. This is a whole new vehicle. Way better drive and tech.

[@snakehandler87]

I frigging love this model.. styling is awesome

[@Sanpedranoazul]

Why the XT, CT names? Can´t barely remember all of them and in other brands too.

[@al8603cl]

Our neighbors own the gamut of crossovers. BMW'S, M-B's, Lexus, Acura's, SRX's etc...my wife has driven them all as she looks to buy her next vehicle. Obviously there are no XT5's as it is a new design vehicle so, this required a trip to the local Cadillac dealer. I must tell you, after she spent some time in the Cadillac XT5 she was totally hooked. Totally impressed. Totally sold. Her impression was and is the fit, finish, style, interior, handling, etc...she loves every single thing about this vehicle. She also loves the fact that it is not cookie cutter. It is not on every single street corner. The look and style is distinctly different. It sets her apart from the every day everywhere you look crossover. All the while being superior in every way to those other vehicles. Bottom line, she wants this crossover very very much. She loves this thing. A LOT. No question. No doubt. She just loves it and wants one. Now! November is her birthday. November she will order one. No parking lot vehicle for her. Ordered from the factory exactly configured as she wants it is the only option.

[@nunyabusiness274]

the cue system works excellent. u're just old.

[@cavalierguy6754]

i find the CUE System to work just fine for me! maybe it is hyper or impatient ppl who have problems! i have the 2017 XT5! love it!

[@SearchEast2069]

I like it. It looks good, has a nice interior like they said, good engine, appears to ride well. CUE is still brutal tho...

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

CUE, is best described a Fu**ed

[@schxn]

The Platinum grille is fine, but I don't like the grille on the other models. Also, there's too much plastic outside on the lower side panels and the rear bumper. Other than that, I like it.

[@hmrthebest]

BMW called, they want their shift selector back

[@kylemlm]

LOL

[@IWeasel]

that's right they did try to copy BMW but their looks cheap as hell

[@lorid8944]

At least Cadillac won't spontaneously combust like the BMW.

[@samsciascia4004]

I like the Bodystyle of my 2012 SRX better

[@chadhaire1711]

The engine shuts off at a stoplight and goes back on when you take your foot off the gas pedal which would not be an issue except you can't turn this crap off!

[@RZ-bo5zq]

It shuts off even at a stop sign, stopped for only a second or 2...that is annoying and un-necessary. It is good when stuck in gridlock bumper to bumper traffic though - nothing kills a car more than just on idle, and polluting the atmosphere. There should be a button to disable this.

[@jacobg.witmer]

I'd take the XT7 hands down

[@pearceshanks9319]

Sure do like your new wheels, Rita.

[@93remix]

no 0-60 test??

[@IWeasel]

it looks okay

[@julianmares9496]

6:18 weasel running for its life lol!

[@justinbig10]

I think it was a squirrel, but he almost made Motorweek history!

[@julianmares9496]

Yeah but I wanted to say weasel lol

[@mscongeniality8205]

julian mares you people suck at time stamps. I was so confused. It’s actually at 6:20😐

[@bimosalexandres]

great car, driven one from los angeles to new york without any complain ;)

[@tbirdboy]

The instrument cluster font reminds of a 2000 Eldorado ETC. No pizzaz there. Not sure if this is really competitive with the Lexus RX which is a leader in this segment.

[@tbirdboy]

Nobody's bitchin'. Didn't mean to make you cry either. Just a former STS owner making a comment.

[@tbirdboy]

+K.C.'s RC Don't cry on my shoulder darling.

[@Yoyomanmanholla]

Has GM not learned from Ford's failed touch control center console? WTF? Even in the Fords, there was a volume knob... Car designers do not know UI/UX at all

[@TreyH2253]

If I'm buying a luxury vehicle, I want it to be so floaty and smooth that I wouldn't know the difference between a freshly paved road or a bumpy dirt road. If I wanted a firmer ride i wouldn't fork out so much money on a luxury brand.

[@oldwing1589]

I agree, I wish my wife’s XT5 rode better. It handles well enough for what it is, but I live in Michigan and the roads are complete shiz. Also, for us it’s a commuter/grocery getter/whateverball practice transporter. I could care less about going around corners at triple digit speeds. I want the old school caddy, floaty ride. If I wanted an autobahn annihilator, I wouldn’t be shopping for one of these.

[@akr01364]

Not to throw shade, but, this compares a Compact SUV to a Midsized one. Of course the Merc was going to drive better: it's the smaller car of the pair. The Caddy would be the one at that price point to buy if you have more than the one kid or take adults out regularly. How that point was somehow missed I don't understand.

[@InvestBetter.]

That font on the gauge cluster sucks long and hard. Why use such an old-school Buick font on such a new-age design? It just comes across as inconsistent and out-of-place

[@coureurdebois]

i always see you on cadillac videos talking shit its not Cadillac's fault they make something nicer than you will ever hope to own 😂😂😂😂😂

[@colonelpotter]

I love Cadillacs and own a 2009 STS.

[@johnls39]

Its always the idiots on KZbin who troll and know nothing about cars.

[@buckyjr710]

Why would you buy this over an Acadia? Didn't Caddy learn their lesson with the Cimerron?

[@BoberMcBoberson]

Why would anyone buy a Lexus over a Toyota? A Lincoln over a Ford, or Audi over VW? Chrysler over Dodge? List goes on and on. Everyone does platform sharing. And I will never understand why the Cimerron got so much flack. The whole Cadillac line was re-skinned Chevy's at the time. Did they suck? yeah. But it was the 80's... Almost every car sucked, compared to the decades before and after LOL!

[@telliesmith9825]

+BoberMcBoberson amen!

[@johnls39]

Cadillac has already learned their lesson and the comparison with Acadia has no reference. There is a difference between a bread-n-butter and luxury buyer. You come across as a bread-n-butter buyer.

[@game2heart]

Test drove an XT5 at a Cadillac event. It is a nice car, but it didn't wow me in any category when compared to other luxury crossovers. I feel Cadillac could seriously compete in the luxury segment if they just lowered their prices and stop trying to pretend like they're Mercedes. They have the design and nice interior, but they are still seen as an old person brand with that American car stereotype.

[@telliesmith9825]

I seen one on the road the other day it looks better in person

[@kellbolin1991]

Please, please, please stop calling a Cadillac a "Caddy", enough already! This is not 1959...I find that by calling this vehicle a "Caddy" it feels disrespectful to me. Cadillac has worked very hard on improving their vehicles and I believe that the Cadillac car company has earned the respect so please let the 1950's name for this brand go...keep up your excellent automobile reviews.

[@StriderCX]

If you want to watch modern cars get reviewed 70's style, watch Motorweek.

[@raphjern]

needs a turbo v6, its so underpowered compared to lincoln mkx 2.7l turbo

[@bassistdc]

It's not underpowered. I would not buy a car with forced induction.

[@richardmorris6365]

310hp?? Idk..

[@coureurdebois]

worlds better than the SRX

[@ohmywrd]

So true.

[@coureurdebois]

" Transmission still searches for gears as with the SRX" *they have very different transmissions, the 8L90 is far better than the 6L* "both vehicles still offer GM's tried and true 3.6 although" *incorrect, this is the LGX based V6 it only shares a few things one of them being displacement* " but when you're spending up to $75k for the platinum pre-tax (CAD), that's not great. " *so much BS here, a fully loaded XT5 will run you 65,000 WITH EVERY single option* *you sound like you have never even driven the last gen SRX, you sound like you're completely ignorant on this subject, all of your points strangely dont match facts or any experience i have had, oh and no reviews back up your statements.*

[@coureurdebois]

" someone is upset easily " *what are you talking about? it sounds like you're upset, are you ok?* " I work at a Cadillac dealership, so yes, I've been behind the wheel of an SRX a few times." *like i said, really does not sound like you have at all, no facts, reviewers, nor my own experience agree with you or support your position, hell you did not even know what the LGX is and you thought the 3.6 was the same engine, SMH* ", It's actually $71,000" *sure, if you order a shit ton of cargo mats 😂😂😂😂😂😂* "It's an awesome SUV, just not worlds better." *i should have been more specific i was predominantly talking about the interior materials, build quality, and design (design is subjective of course), the SRX was a nice SUV (after all it was 2nd best selling in its class), but it always felt like it was the last of the "HEAVILY GM INFLUENCED" cadillac.*

[@coureurdebois]

JJ JJ well Canadian cars are always more (as the value of the CA dollar is less, also more taxes in Canada)

[@aracelikiwrna5778]

+justin bouche f

[@Ihavetruth22]

Are these 4x4's? Why buy one? I don't bet the highend crossover hype.

[@pjimmbojimmbo1990]

While the ride is better than my STS's, Kidney damaging Ride, the XT5 is still quite Stiff, and the Crappy Tires from the Factory certainly don't help. The CUE System is a Real PIA to operate, especially when trying to select as song to play. Absolutely Horrible, and not User Friendly in any way shape or form To change Spark Plugs, half the engine has to come apart Easily replaceable Headlight Bulbs is a Deal Breaker for me, as I had to Suffer Cadillac's Decision to make their changing a real PIA on my STS. After about 2 weeks of owning it, I discovered it has LED Headlights. Good News is, I was able to disable that God Damn Effin Auto Stop

[@SunsPhan75]

platinum is over priced

[@johnls39]

Platinum is the top-of-the-line for buyers who want the most for their money. There are other models under it.

[@SunsPhan75]

I understand that. But in comparison, it's way over priced. Other makers offer 5 seaters that hold their value better and are better overall values

[@76carmel]

Also most XT5s are priced around $54-56k, right as its rivals Lexus RX and Lincoln MKX.

[@mscongeniality8205]

sonjdre toom just because it’s more expensive doesn’t mean it’s “over priced”. If it had a German badge you wouldn’t be saying that. What vehicle in this class is a better value?

[@turkialsul7847]

Very luxurious rent car

[@alexsummaria371]

looks like the Chevy Trax

[@paulgiulekas7127]

why no track testing

[@penguindiego]

it's a saab 9-4×

And added 25k from base to top loaded model is way way way way too much. You will never see that in return in your trade in or end of payments.

[@johnls39]

Automobiles are depreciating assets. What do you expect, a house on wheels? There are other choices if the buyer don't want to put much money on a car.

[@SunsPhan75]

exactly...over priced. Lincoln, Acura etc better values.

[@jklol6247]

tight used rredr

[@techmaven5900]

First drive..not a road test. MW is falling..

[@Lion-dr7uv]

The back is hideous to me hopefully the XT7 looks better

[@raphjern]

it looks like its crying

[@summerwestvevo1741]

Auclasious,ah? Cadillacs new design language

[@rexwelker7489]

Would love to have one but way over priced !!

[@carwhiz90]

So basically this is a srx just a new identity

[@BillySmith808]

Perfect car for the up and coming drug dealer

[@Trendyflute]

Cadillac (GM in general, honestly) is doing such a great job these days, it makes things like CUE and that fuddy-duddy gauge pack design so infuriating...they're major, constantly used touch points and controls and they're POOR. You are in a wonderful car but the things in front of you that you look at and touch are frustrating. It's a real problem. C'mon, GM, you're so close! Get it RIGHT!

[@johnls39]

The gauge cluster is new, although don't look much different from the SRX, you can tell the difference. Not understanding the nitpick here while most buyers won't care and the Platinum has the better quality gauges. CUE is not an issue and once driven in them, they become second nature and most buyers like it. The problem with CUE is lack of power which Cadillac addressed in '16 with a lot faster processing time.

[@Trendyflute]

johnls39 I find the Cadillac gauge cluster to look really bland and uninspired, and also looks really "old person" and is out of step with their new "we're a sporty European-style brand!" flavor. And CUE is still missing real buttons and knobs to provide user input.

[@IWeasel]

+Mathew Clark I wish they would have kept the gauge clusters like the older 2010-2011 SRX

[@edwardmensinger5028]

Matt Clark lo ppl

[@edwardmensinger5028]

Love my caddy

[@gatsbylight4766]

What.... All that money, and it doesn't come standard with *CAS* ?! (Chipmunk Alert System). [ 6:19 ]

[@ryanbernard6302]

Yuk! I'll keep my 2006 SRX- at least it can haul stuff then these shaved off in the rear "Sport Cutes". Gear shifter is stupid too! It's just an overpriced Equinox!

[@david.mysticalbeing]

I bought an XT5 2017, let me tell you, it's been 3 months and it's the most annoying car ride quality. I have a camry also, camry has a better road quality. XT5 cannot absorb any bump, if you put a pencil on the road you will feel it under your feet, you will feel it in your seat and you will hear it loud and clear. It's so loud that on a highway i have to play a car music (bose) at 20 or above to enjoy the music. Very loud, you cannot enjoy it, on a bumpy road you will feel like you are driving a ford focus. yes it turns head and looks amazing, but that's all there is to it. you will feel amazing sitting in it on a Red light or a stop sign, but as soon you you start moving this car, loud as hell cabin, and bumpy as hell. I dare you to put your head on a head rest and drive, you will get a headache in less than 30 seconds.

[@weedmastersr]

Liar, liar, pants on fire.

[@cavalierguy6754]

Damn, you must be an idiot! More money than brains or something! Everybody takes a vehicle for a test drive before they purchase! I have one i just bought in Passion Red and I love it! it IS a SUV, a Utility Vehicle! if you want a CAMARY RIDE, You should of bought one! Maybe you would prefer a KIA or a Smart Car!

[@randomrazr]

the host is going bald

[@JerkVegas86]

He's old, what do you expect

[@Fussinated]

"Euro like" ... If I want a European car I would buy a European car. Why would I buy a wanna be European car? If I buy a Cadillac I would do that to experience the "American feel." If this car is giving a EURO LIKE experience than it's shame, because for that there are European cars.

[@shizzy_Snorlax]

That instrument cluster has got to go. It screams cheap and is not fitting for a $40,000 car. My $22,000 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a better looking cluster. Hell, my previous car ('12 Ford Focus) has a better instrument cluster. IT HAS TO GO GM.

[@orbits2]

hell my 1986 Ford E350 Ford cargo Van instrument cluster looks better than that. to top it off the 460 can run all ahead full flank all day

[@jimmyjim2000]

They almost ran over a squirrel

[@jd5179]

meh

[@GSDrifter]

I'll take a VW Touareg any day!

[@javvenlapierre1069]

mkx

[@123cops]

I own one and I can tell you it looks and drives thousand times better.

[@billmcgregor4112]

+123cops I disagree, I cross shopped the new XT5 to the MKX. I found the XT5 to be a better vehicle in every category, it handles a lot better, offers a firmer yet suppler ride at the same time, has a way smoother transmission and smoother engine, is noticeably quiter, and the overall fit and finish was in another category better. I felt like I was driving a cheap vehicle while behind the wheel of the MKX, the exact opposite was felt in the XT5.

[@javvenlapierre1069]

mkx looks better on rims

[@christinegenzano6095]

Bill McGregor Tha

[@azimmey]

New emblem ugly.

[@ELP1125]

Cadillac interior is VERY dated. 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@valdemar1976ify]

copy bmw x3

[@pontiacGXPfan]

Copycat RX350