Founded in 1902, Cadillac has been known for producing luxurious vehicles for over 100 years. As one of the oldest automakers in the world, the American car manufacturer has had plenty of time to perfect their creations to cater to U.S. consumer needs. That’s why the new 2020 Cadillac XT5 is such a big deal.
With three distinct trim levels to choose from, a facelift, and a more powerful engine, the 2020 Cadillac XT5 is the luxury crossover that everyone is talking about. As Cadillac’s best-selling model, it makes sense that the company would refresh its styling and give it a few more perks.
2020 Cadillac Luxury
The base XT5 is anything but basic. Known as the Luxury trim level, this model is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Models with this motor have replaced the old vacuum-assisted braking system with the new electronically controlled braking system. This uses quick responses to reduce parasitic engine drag and improve overall efficiency. Equipped with FWD and a 9-speed automatic transmission, it has plenty to offer in terms of performance.
With a starting price of $44,095, this mid-size SUV includes tech upgrades such as a Bose stereo system and an 8-inch touchscreen interface to operate infotainment controls easily. Also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can listen to your personalized playlists on your way to work. The state-of-the-art navigation system with real-time traffic updates will ensure that you never get lost again.
Subtle, simulated leather covers the seats, and the 40/20/40 folding rear seats can be reconfigured to access up to 63 cubic feet of space. Advanced safety features include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and emergency braking to help keep your family safe on the roads.
2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury
Stepping up to the Premium Luxury Trim level provides additional safety features like blindspot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts. A hands-free liftgate and automatic windshield wipers are added conveniences as well. Luxurious leather upholstery covers the cabin seats, which are heated and cooled for comfort all year long.
At this level, you can also opt-in for more nifty features such as the 14-speaker Bose stereo system for an enhanced audio experience. An available rearview camera with night vision helps to prevent fender benders when backing up, and adaptive cruise control steadies your pace during unruly rush hour traffic. This version also gets a brighter exterior trim for a sleeker appearance. With a price point starting at $48,795, you certainly get what you pay for with this beauty.
2020 Cadillac XT5 Sport
The top-of-the-line Sport trim level is the newest addition to the XT5 family and includes upgrades that are ideal for people who love to go on adventures.
Growling under the hood is a 3.6L V6 engine that generates a whopping 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with all-wheel-drive and a sport-tuned suspension, it also comes with adaptive dampers and an engine cooling system to prevent overheating. With the highest price point, starting at $55,095, this ride will not disappoint.
Advanced tech features include the innovative rearview camera mirror that streams a live HD video feed to give the driver a view of what’s behind the vehicle. Wireless device charging is also available. Conveniently located in the center console, this unique feature charges your smartphone and other compatible mobile devices. The Sport trim also features high-gloss black accents on the exterior and clear covers on the taillamps instead of the classic red.
All-Around Personalization Features
For maximum customization, the full-color Driver Information Center (gauge cluster) can be customized to display phone, radio, and navigation for your convenience. Selectable driving modes can also be chosen based on the road conditions. Touring is optimal for everyday driving, while Snow and Ice is meant to handle poor road conditions due to harsh winter weather. And the Sport mode offers a more engaging driving experience.
All versions of the XT5 feature a redesigned front mesh grille with unique stylings for each trim level. The front and rear bumpers have all been tweaked as well, and LED lighting is now standard. Stylish new wheel designs ranging from 18- to 20-inches are also available.
New interior color palettes to choose from give potential buyers more control over what their new vehicle looks like. High-quality materials like premium leather and rich wood accents give the cabin a stately, elegant look and feel. There is even a Jet Black/Kona Brown theme that oozes with sophistication.
Cadillac XT5 Highlights
There are many features and points of interest in the Cadillac XT5, both inside and out, that deserve a deeper look. Reimagined storage compartments come in the form of a wrapped bin at the face of the center console. This, along with refreshed cupholders, gives the interior a more tailored look. Heated front seats now come standard for comfort during the cold winter months.
As for entertainment, the aforementioned Bose stereo system is complemented by metal grilles covering the face of the speakers for an amplified listening experience. Enhanced acoustical treatments improve the overall quietness inside the cabin, allowing passengers to listen to music with studio-quality sound. A WIFI hotspot is also available through Cadillac’s 4G LTE add-on. This enables you to stay connected everywhere you go.
As for performance and power, both of the 4-cylinder and the V6 engines employ camshaft phasing, direct injection, Active Fuel Management, and automatic stop/start to maximize efficiency. The Luxury and Premium Luxury trim levels redesigned front struts and enhanced streamlining elements to make the vehicle more aerodynamic. The Sport trim level offers dual-clutch Sport Control AWD with Active Yaw Control, a more responsive steering ratio, adaptive suspension, and 20-inch wheels.
Advanced Technology for Entertainment
Delving deeper into the infotainment and driver assistant features, this is really how potential buyers can tell if a new vehicle is worth its price point. The 2020 Cadillac XT5 is brimming with state-of-the-art technology for a seamless user experience. There are over 20 new features, but here are some of the coolest ones.
Coupled with the 8-inch touchscreen is a rotary controller with new jog functionality. This allows the user to operate the system in more than one way. Bluetooth connectivity has also been taken to the next level with Near Field Communication technology. This is a one-touch phone pairing system that makes it easy to sync once you’re in the vehicle.
Power sources for multiple devices include a 15-watt wireless charging function and upgraded USB ports with USB-C types for faster charging capabilities. What’s the point in charging your smartphone on the way to work if it only gets a 15% increase in battery life. You want your phone to be fully charged to ease your mind for the remainder of the day.
The HD rearview camera, HD surround view system, and night vision enables you to have eyes all around you at all times. This technology can help with parallel street parking in urban areas and can even help you avoid running over a bicycle that was left out at night.
With over 40 total updates to this luxurious five-seater, the new 2020 Cadillac XT5 does not disappoint. Exuding style and stately elegance, this model will have heads turning everywhere you go.
