Crossovers are perfect for individuals and families who are into outdoor activities. Compared to truck-based SUVs that are made more for hauling, crossovers are meant to accommodate more people. They have more passenger-friendly features than truck-based SUVs, such as better comfort – in terms of interior design and ride quality. They are also superior when it comes to fuel-economy and off-roading experience. The real question, however, is: Which crossover should you buy? There are tons of choices in the market that will overwhelm car buyers. So today, we are going to compare two crossover models and look at the 2020 Cadillac XT5 vs 2020 BMW X3.
These two crossovers are from two well-known luxury car brands -Cadillac and BMW. These brand names alone can baffle any car buyer and make it hard for them to make a decision. When it comes to buying luxury utility vehicles, car buyers always have this dilemma of whether the purchase will be worth it. After all, utility vehicles are meant to perform in harsh weather conditions and rough terrain. Not to mention they are often used to carry heavy loads. Many looking on the crossover market may think that damaging a luxury car with these uses is not very practical, so comparing a Cadillac and a BMW crossover may not make much sense. However, for the sake of car buyers who do not worry about this issue, it is important to set the record straight and help them choose the better crossover to buy.
So, let’s get on ahead with the comparison.
2020 Cadillac XT5
The XT5 is Cadillac’s most popular model. The 2020 model is getting only minor upgrades, mostly to its exterior. There is no reason to change something that is already so well made, especially when the consumers have options to choose from when they are shopping. There are three trims for the XT5: Luxury (MSRP $44,095), Premium Luxury (MSRP $48,795) and Sport (MSRP $55,095).
Each trim includes different standards and upgrades. For example, both the Luxury and Premium Luxury come standard with a 2.0L Turbo engine, while the Sport trim comes standard with a 3.6L V6 engine. However, the 3.6L V6 is an upgrade option for the Premium Luxury trim. Of course, the more money you lay down, the more features will come standard. The Premium Luxury and Sport trims both come standard with heated steering wheels, wireless phone charging, and memory packages (2 settable presets for seats, mirrors, and the steering column), while these are not even available upgrades for the Luxury. Those lavish additions may be enough to convince you to upgrade to a higher trim.
If you prefer an all-wheel-drive vehicle, this is an available upgrade for the first two trims and comes standard for the Sport. Adding AWD to your vehicle can enhance your safety during bad weather and in rough terrain. Consider this option as it is a great investment.
Safety Features
The Cadillac XT5 has many standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, electronic traction control, forward collision alert, a rear-vision camera, and lane-keep assist with lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Cadillac has made it clear the safety is at the top of their priority list, as it should be!
There are other safety options that you can opt-in or out of depending on the trim you buy. Some options include rear camera mirror with washer, night vision, and enhanced automatic emergency braking. While these do add to the price tag a bit, nothing is worth more than you and your family’s safety.
2020 BMW X3
The BMW X3, just like the Cadillac XT5, received only minor upgrades for 2020. The only significant and exciting changes revolve around the technology upgrades. Some of these changes include newly standard navigation and the LED headlights with cornering lights on 30i models.
The BMW X3 is offered in four different trims. The models and their MSRPs are, sDrive30i ($41,950), xDrive30i ($43,950), M40i ($55,900) and their hybrid version, the xDrive30e ($48,550). It is important to notice that the BMW X3 has this hybrid version, which is an excellent option for those looking to stay green and save on gasoline.
Just as with the Cadillac XT5, the higher on the trim totem pole you go, the more options and standards become available. For example, the BMW X3 sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims come standard with 2.0L, 4-cylinder, 16 valve engines with 248-hp. If you jump up to the xDrive30e trim, a 3.0L, 6-cylinder, 24 valve engine with 382-hp becomes the standard. The hybrid trim has a 2.0L, 4-cylinder, 16 valve engine combined with an electric motor, which added together, equals 288-hp. This is a very powerful vehicle, but it costs to get that kind of power.
Regardless of the trim, all of the trims are quite sleek in regards to appearance and technology. The modern looks are paired with the latest advancements, including Apple CarPlay Compatibility, hands-free bluetooth connectivity, and HiFi sound systems.
Safety Features
The BMW X3 has been crash-tested by the NHTSA and brought home the bacon with a five-star safety rating. It also received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. With all of these tests, there is no reason for car buyers to feel scared or intimidated by other big and fast vehicles on the road.
The BMW X3 comes with standard driver-assistance features, such as automated emergency braking, forward-collision warning, a rear-view camera, and adaptive cruise control.
The Results
Overall, the 2020 Cadillac XT5 and the 2020 BMW X3 are almost tied in terms of their pros and cons. Both of them are strong and weak in certain areas. It is just a matter of preference and budget. However, the Cadillac sort of sweeps the competition with the high number of standard features and additional upgrades. There are tons of safety and entertainment features that make up for any loss in other areas. The Cadillac XT5 should be in the dictionary under the word “luxury.”
The Cadillac XT5 offers a standard four-cylinder engine and an optional V-6 that can be paired with either a front-wheel or an all-wheel drive. Compared to the Cadillac XT5, the BMW X3 has fewer engine offerings, but it does come with a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that can generate 335-horsepower. If you want a bigger engine that can produce 473-horsepower, the BMW X3 can offer you that.
Overall though, the Cadillac XT5 offers the best ride quality and comfort. It also has a massive cargo space, which can be convenient for car buyers who often enjoy traveling and going on road-trips with a lot of people. The BMW X3, on the other hand, has lost a little bit of its magic when it comes to bringing fun and luxury into driving. The acceleration and handling capabilities, as well as its interior finish, are its redeeming qualities. However, when looking for a crossover vehicle, customization, quality, and comfort are more important than speed. If you are looking for a luxurious, reliable family crossover, the Cadillac XT5 is for you.
