First Drive: 2023 Cadillac XT5
Cadillac’s midsize luxury SUV has undergone a few changes for this model year, with updates mostly for interior features, and technology. The 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport model we tested offers a blend of luxury, performance, and comfort.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Cadillac XT5 exudes elegance from the moment you lay eyes on it. The 400 badge at the back is just the 366 Nm torque figure rounded up. The XT5 Sport gets a darker front grille design and 20-inch alloy wheels.
LED headlights and clear glass taillights add a touch of modernity, and the overall design is sleek and aerodynamic. The XT5 strikes a balance between classic Cadillac design and contemporary aesthetics.
Interior Comfort and Quality
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the attention to detail and craftsmanship in the cabin. Premium materials such as leather, carbon-fibre, and metal trim are used throughout in the XT5 Sport, with no sign of the wood trim found in the other XT5 models.
The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. Noise insulation is impressive, making for a quiet and serene driving experience. The optional large panoramic roof is also a welcome addition.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2023 XT5 is loaded with the latest technology. The centrepiece is the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system, displayed on a large touchscreen that’s easy to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and the system is responsive and user-friendly and the Bose speakers are absolutely amazing.
The available head-up display adds to the convenience, of projecting important information onto the windshield.
Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking contribute to a sense of security on the road.
It also features GM’s OnStar, the subscription-based system offering in-vehicle security, emergency services, turn-by-turn navigation, and remote vehicle diagnostics.
Driving Dynamics
Behind the wheel, the 2023 XT5 delivers a smooth and composed ride. The tried and tested 3.6-litre V6 engine in our XT5 Sport offers ample power for daily driving. The motor produces 310 hp and 366 Nm of torque. Hitting 100 kph from 0 is claimed to be around 8 seconds.
Pressing the accelerator pedal provides an instant response, which is always helpful when driving out of busy junctions or roundabouts.
The XT5 handles corners with confidence, and the suspension does an excellent job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road. It strikes a nice balance between sportiness and comfort.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is average for a vehicle in this class. The 3.6-litre V6 in our tester achieved about 8 km/litre, which included mostly city driving. The 2.0-litre turbo models offer better fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
The 2023 Cadillac XT5 continues to impress with its blend of luxury, technology, and performance. It’s a versatile midsize luxury SUV that can handle both daily commutes and long road trips with ease.
The exterior design gives it a contemporary look, while the opulent interior provides a comfortable and elegant space. With advanced technology and safety features, the XT5 is a strong contender in its segment. If you’re in the market for a luxurious and well-rounded SUV, the 2023 Cadillac XT5 is certainly worth considering.
Comments
tanu
Why is that its preference and awareness in the GCC market is so low. Hence low resale too.
Marouf Hussain
They are improving year on year, proven by their 21 percent increase in sales last year in the Middle East, thanks mainly to the Escalade, XT4 and CT5. The XT5 is due for an update soon.