2020 Cadillac XT5

Pros: Good overall interior space; refined drivetrain; high-grade interior materials; fine balance of ride and handling

Cons: Top trim levels get expensive; rear-seat headroom is tight for tall adults

CG Says: The 2020 Cadillac XT5 has refreshed styling and a 237-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder is the new base engine. The existing 3.6-liter V6 is still available and is standard in a new Sport model with unique suspension tuning and a quicker steering ratio. There is also a new infotainment system and rear pedestrian detection is a newly available. In 2017, the Cadillac XT5 replaced SRX as Cadillac’s premium midsize SUV. The base engine is the previously mentioned turbo four and the 310-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 is optional on the Premium Luxury model and standard on Sport. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and have automatic engine stop/start system and cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. The AWD system is capable of sending 100% of available power to either the front or rear axle, and the driver can select front-wheel drive mode for improved fuel economy. Also, an electronically controlled rear differential can send up to 100% of available power to either rear wheel for better traction in slippery conditions. Available technology features include a wireless charger for cell phones and a rearview mirror that displays a camera image with a wider field of vision than a conventional mirror. Available safety features include automatic front and rear braking for low-speed conditions; lane-keep assist; rear cross-traffic alert; surround-view camera; LED headlights; and adaptive cruise control. The XT5 improved on the SRX in every way, with better interior appointments, more rear-seat room, and improved fuel economy, and a full roster of cutting-edge safety and technology features. It’s a strong contender in the premium midsize SUV class.