An article describing the Cadillac XT5

Just recently, Cadillac launched its mid-sized crossover in the UAE, the XT5. It sits above the XT4 in the brand’s portfolio and rivals the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5 and BMW X3. Now, Cadillac has decided to give it an update to make it look scintillating and head-turning. Usually, a facelift brings with it subtle cosmetic changes but a lot has changed specially in the engine department of the XT5 with this evolution.

EXTERIOR

The changes aren’t instantly recognizable on the first sight. But a deeper look will signify a bigger matte-black grille with chrome surrounds and mildly tweaked headlamps with revised strips of LEDs. Signature design characteristics include a hood bulging at the center and a puny bumper with air intakes.

The portly fenders, a flowing crease and high shoulder line make it look macho from the side. What looks disproportionate are the substantial overhangs which are redundant on such a car.

The rear visage has been inspired from the smaller XT4 crossover and carries the same set of curved taillights and bulky boot. Some aluminium finishes and black cladding on the bumper is a nice touch given to the car.

INTERIOR

The cabin layout of the car carries an extremely futuristic approach with swooping lines and minuscule buttons on the dash. Unlike its rivals, the XT5 still uses a conventional analog outline for the instrument cluster. However, there is a small digital screen providing information about the cruise control and fuel meter. Worth highlighting is the multi-function steering wheel which has all the buttons embedded on it to keep the center console clean and to provide ease of functionality to drivers who can control all the functions from one place.

What takes center stage is the 8” CUE touchscreen infotainment system from the XT4 which should be more responsive to operate and houses in a reverse parking camera, phone connectivity, etc. A lump sum of features which might come to the UAE include heated front seats, LED headlights, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, automatic braking with pedestrian detection and a safety buzzer which alerts the driver by vibrating the seats and firming up the steering wheel to indicate an object in close vicinity of the car.

As you’d expect for a car positioned in the premium compact SUV segment, there’s tons of leather used in the car granting it an upmarket feel. The BMW inspired gear selector is a welcomed addition.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

What comes as a stupendous surprise is the incorporation of a turbocharged mill. The base models are likely to come powered by a 2 liter turbo mill churning out 237 hp and 350 Nm of torque while the bigger 3.6 liter V6 is anticipated to produce 310 horses and 370 Nm of torque. These figures will most probably be supplemented by a nine speed automatic transmission. To accentuate fuel efficiency, the 2-liter model is likely to feature an electrically assisted power braking system having an electric motor which is Cadillac’s system of regenerative braking and would prevent an abrupt power cutdown . It is one of the biggest attempts made by the brand towards frugality.

VERDICT

The Cadillac XT5 is a vast improvement over its predecessor, the SRX and we would appreciate the attempt which does bring it very close to its rivals. It is a better-looking car, sports an elegant interior, comes with more features and improved functionality and might also be available with the 2-liter turbo from which we expect good efficiency. While it might not have set the benchmark in any specific department, it conflates everything into a package which we believe might be much more affordable than its rivals. It does not possess an affluent brand value but on the whole, it comes as a very enticing alternative proposition to its rivals and cannot be ignored.