New for 2017
The XT5 is an all-new model that replaces the SRX.
Curtain Raiser
It’s a new day at Cadillac. The General Motors luxury brand is in the process of reinventing itself, and that extends to its midsize luxury crossover. So for 2017, the SRX will be replaced by the all-new XT5. This model not only debuts Cadillac’s new naming convention for crossovers, but also a new platform and some features never offered on a Cadillac utility vehicle before. Making the most of its fresh start, the XT5 is ready to take on the best luxury crossovers from Germany and Japan.
Powertrain and Performance
In the US, the 2017 Cadillac XT5 will be offered with only one engine, the 3.6-liter V6 already available in the ATS and CTS sedans, and soon to be offered in Cadillac’s new CT6 flagship. If it’s good enough for those cars, it should do pretty well in Caddy’s newest crossover.
In the XT5, this engine produces 310 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with the new Electronic Precision Shift, Cadillac’s first electronic shifter. It eliminates any mechanical linkage between the shifter and transmission, which Cadillac says reduces noise and vibration, and creates more usable cabin space.
While front-wheel drive is standard, the XT5 wouldn’t be much of a crossover without an all-wheel drive option. So it gets not just any all-wheel drive system, but a new twin-clutch setup that can transfer up to 100 percent of torque to either the front or rear axle. It’s designed for “split-coefficient” situations, such as when there is more snow or ice of one side of the road than the other. Even in dry conditions, it should offer confidence-inspiring handling.
EPA fuel-economy ratings for the XT5 aren’t available yet, but certain fuel-saving technologies should ensure good performance. The V6 engine features Active Fuel Management, which allows it to run on four cylinders under light loads. The all-wheel drive system can also disconnect the rear axle on demand to cut fuel consumption.
Features and Trims
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is a five-door, five-seat midsize luxury crossover. Pricing and specific equipment information will be released closer to the start of production this spring.
When it arrives in showrooms, the XT5 will boast an impressive list of features. Some of the highlights revealed so far include Remote Fold-Down Rear Seats with a 40/20/40 split, as well as Platinum trim package like the one offered on the Escalade, with unique interior and exterior trim.
On the technology front, the XT5 will get the Rear Camera Mirror system first shown on the CT6 sedan. This system combines a conventional rearview mirror with the display for a rearview camera. When viewing the video, software “removes” obstacles like the rear pillars, improving rearward visibility by 300 percent, Cadillac says. The display can be switched back to mirror mode at the press of a button.
The XT5 will also be offered with the latest version of Cadillac’s CUE (Cadillac User Experience) infotainment system. The upgraded system boasts a faster and more powerful processor for better response, as well as Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. Like many other GM models, the XT5 will have the OnStar 4G LTE system with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Other tech features include an available hands-free tailgate and head-up display.
Design
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is an all-new model, and its styling reflects that. In contrast to the somewhat dated SRX it replaces, the XT5 features styling cues from the latest Cadillac models, including a bold grille with wreath-less crest badge, and headlights and daytime running lights with the same LED signature first seen on the CTS.
Changes run more than skin deep, though. The XT5 rides on a new platform that contributes to a 278-pound weight savings over the SRX. Cadillac says the XT5 is also 100 pounds lighter than an Audi Q5, and more than 650 pounds lighter than a Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, with no compromise to structural rigidity or crash performance.
The interior also received a thorough rethink. It was designed with more horizontal surfaces, to make more effective use of the space. Cadillac also used cut-and-sewn wrapped panels for a true luxury feel. And thanks to a two-inch wheelbase stretch, the XT5 also has an extra 3.2 inches of rear legroom compared to the outgoing SRX, despite being slightly smaller overall.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Cadillac XT5 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and a full array of airbags. Cadillac will also offer Driver Awareness and Driver Assist packages, including automatic low-speed front and rear braking, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Automatic Parking Assist.
Bottom Line
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 improves on its predecessor with more dramatic styling, increased efficiency, and the latest technology.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at 3Birds Template to be among the first to test drive the all-new Cadillac XT5.
Image: Cadillac
