From Style To Performance, Cadillac Crossover Is The Smartest Choice
Cadillac never disappoints. Not a lot needs to be done to reaffirm the class and sophistication of cars that defined and still influence the market greatly. Not a lot, then, needed to be changed in the 2018 XT5 Crossover.
Most models now include a heated steering wheel, but not a lot else has changed, because it works.The XT5 lineup is still available in base, luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum levels. Features such as a rearview camera mirror, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, front and rear USB ports and the latest generation of CUE infotainment system are also included in the new models.
The XT5 is Cadillac’s smallest crossover and once sedans are taken into account, it has a higher starting price than the ATS but lower than the CTS sedan.
In terms of styling, this model is the clear sign of a effort in softening and restraint. Detailing, in fact, seems to be the main focus this time around. The headlights run aggressively with their LED running strips into the front bumper. A choice also employed for the taillights on the rear.
The inside, however, definitely emanates a feel of luxury with a high-positioned 8.0 inch touchscreen, hidden buttons that disappear the car is turned off and a fine finish of rubbery vinyl and suede-resembling material for the panel next to the screen. Hints of real wood, faux and aluminium are also a part of the interior’s design.
A 310-hp, 271-lb-ft of torque 3.6-liter V-6 paired to an eight-speed automatic powers this car and it does so by sending power to the front wheels or to an all-wheel drive system, which makes it hit 60 mph in only 6.4 seconds and stopped from 60 mph in 128 feet. The AWD model, however, stops at 111 feet and hits 60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
Safety, moreover, has always represent a main concern for Cadillac and the XT5 is no exception. This model includes seven airbags, stability control, and traction control. Low-speed automatic emergency braking, however, is included on XT5 Premium Luxury and Platinum trim levels but optional on the XT5 Premium and not available on the base XT5, which includes active lane control, blind-spot monitors and automatic high-beam headlights.
Premium Luxury and Platinum also include the Driver Assist Package as an extra option, which includes full-speed automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control and reverse automatic braking.
All of the above clearly factors in towards a comfortable and smooth performing of this car. While not being a sports car, it has a gentle feel a good handling and a nice power coming from its V-6 engine.
Moreover, the electric power steering is light and centers smoothly on the highway and the all-wheel drive system is optional on every model except the Platinum, where it’s standard.
Fully independent suspension provides extra safety and confidence to the ride and Premium Luxury and Platinum have a special suspension that continuously adjusts damping for the 20-inch alloy wheels.
The only engine on offer for all models is a A 3.6-liter V-6 engine rated at 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, which provides solid power and pair quite well with the 8-speed automatic transmission.
Prices for the 2018 XT5 start at $40,000. In addition to the base model, this SUV comes in three other trim levels: Luxury ($46,595), Premium Luxury ($53,095), and Platinum ($63,395). The XT5 Platinum comes standard with all-wheel drive. All other models are front-wheel drive, with the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive ($2,500 to $3,000).