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The XT5 is slowly becoming the flagship model. Smaller and bigger SUVs, XT4 and XT6 are based on this vehicle. Still, the Escalade is the most famous product by this manufacturer and it is early to talk about 2021 Cadillac XT5 replacing the full-size SUV as the most important premium vehicle for GM.
The compact crossover SUV suffered a restyling in 2020. So, the new 2021 Cadillac XT5 is not going to offer too many new cosmetic changes. The SUV is very attractive to draw the attention of the younger population, and elegant and comfortable, which is something the older buyers are looking for.
The single engine is a two-razor blade. A V6 is reliable and powerful. On the other hand, buyers could look for further options in other models. Also, the lack of hybrid drivetrain is the biggest downside, both for XT5 and XT6. General Motors will have to do something about it sooner than they planned. The all-electric Cadillac SUV is scheduled for 2023. GM doesn’t have so much time to spend.
Why Buy 2021 Cadillac XT5?
As the all-new model, with enhanced styling, the XT5 will be the refreshment on the market. It was one of the best-looking SUVs even before the redesign. Now, the body lines, headlights, tail, tires, are looking even more stylish and aggressive. The compact SUV is a two-row model with enough room both front and back. The safety is definitely an advantage over the competition with “Superior” grade by IIHS. The premium model is full of advanced features (we will unveil them later). A V6 is a durable, reliable, powerful engine, great for slippery conditions thanks to the enhanced braking system.
What Needs to be Improved?
Well, it is hard to believe the new 2021 Cadillac XT5 will suffer big changes. But, the company needs to work out on the things the buyers are complaining to. First of all, that is the infotainment system. This is the time where the evolution speed of technology is incredible. The CUE can’t catch up with the latest updates and features. The new generation needs to step up, not only for the XT5.
Besides the poor infotainment, you won’t find too much fun driving the XT5 off the road. Also, if you want to upgrade your SUV, the price goes up pretty fast. The Platinum version is over $65,000. At this price, we have some base versions of the full-size SUVs available, for example, Infiniti QX80.
2021 Cadillac XT5 Specs
Let’s go back to the drivetrain of the 2021 Cadillac XT5. A V6 is a safe bet. It is an excellent choice for the compact luxury crossover. A 3.5-liter unit can produce 310 horsepower, which is good for 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. An eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and improves fuel economy. Well, the 22 mpg combined is not among the class-leading numbers, but it is a good return from a V6 engine. Some rivals with the better gas mileage are using either a turbo-four or hybrid drivetrains.
Other Drivetrain Options
Definitely, a new engine was a priority for the XT5. The SUV is attractive, but the lack of options will make it less interesting in the future. The GM already added a turbo-four unit. Chevrolet Equinox landed a 2.0-liter displacement. 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque are enough for the 2021 Cadillac XT5. Also, this powerplant would improve the fuel economy to at least 25 mpg combined.
A hybrid drivetrain is something the entire automotive world is expecting from GM and its premium brand. We could hear announcements, but nothing happened. Now, the company is presenting EV concepts, but they really lack a true hybrid drivetrain to make their vehicles competitive in the compact and mid-size segment.
2021 Cadillac XT5 Trim Levels and Prices
The price of the 2021 Cadillac XT5 will start at $43,000. The company hasn’t updated the entire list of models for 2020 season, so the first trim for build is Premium Luxury. The base version will be available at a cheaper price and it brings 18-inch wheels, 8-speaker Bose audio, rear-vision camera and park assist, which is already enough for the entry-level SUV.
Upper trim levels are going to be Luxury and Premium Luxury. The cost of these two is between $45,000 and $50,000. The package adds blind-spot monitor system and lane departure warning. Wireless charger and a power moonroof are part of the higher trim level. The top of the line model is 2021 Cadillac XT5 Sport. It pairs a V6 engine exclusively with an all-wheel drive. Special damping suspension, 20-inch wheels, and a nine-speed auto transmission are new parts of the Sport package.
Color options of the XT5 are making this SUV very attractive for build. The entry-level model offers silver paintjob as standard, six colors that cost $625 each, and a premium palette with a couple of $1,225 options. Not only the exterior but also the interior is coming in six different schemes for the Premium Luxury model.
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