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2023 Cadillac XT5 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2023 Cadillac XT5 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: Luxury vs Premium and Sport
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Compare 2023 Cadillac XT5 Trims: Luxury vs Premium and Sport

For drivers looking for that perfect balance between luxury, affordability and convenience- the new 2022 Cadillac XT5 is where it's at! Loaded with premium features usually reserved for more expensive models, this compact SUV gives you a taste of the high life without breaking your budget.

While the Cadillac XT5 may not offer the sporty driving dynamics of its European counterparts, testers give this vehicle a strong rating in terms of passenger comfort. Families especially like its spacious seating. Distinctive exterior styling also helps the new 2023 Cadillac XT5 to remain relevant in one of the market’s toughest segments. Here’s a glance at how the three available trim levels compare.

Compare the Luxury vs Premium Luxury. What is the Difference?

The XT5 Luxury trim is a smart buy for automotive shoppers on the hunt for an attractive price tag. This entry-level option provides generous passenger room and, quite notably, comes equipped with all sorts of desirable features normally reserved at higher levels - without making any sacrifices in quality.

A turbo four-cylinder engine is the SUV’s standard source of power. It’s tuned by Cadillac to press out 235 horsepower. A nine-speed Electronic Precision Shift automatic transmission helps extract the most performance from the engine. Road tests show the XT5 takes about 8.0 seconds to accelerate to 60 mph.

Fuel economy for the front-wheel-drive XT5 stands at an estimated 22 mpg in urban areas and up to 29 mpg on the freeway. Opting for all-wheel drive results in a rating of 21 mpg city/27 mpg freeway. According to Cadillac, owners are clear to fill the tank with regular unleaded gasoline.

Despite the extra cost involved, an all-wheel drive system is a valuable upgrade for those living in cold climates. Nonetheless it's important to remember that this particular AWD won't be able handle any extreme off-roading conditions - so plan accordingly before you set out.

The XT5’s base Luxury trim certainly scores well in the styling department. LED headlamps with cascading LED running lights help it to stand out. To further enhance the SUV’s looks, Cadillac outfits it with modern 18-inch wheels and twin exhaust outlets. Larger 20-inch wheels are optional on the XT5 Luxury.

Other notable exterior features include heated power outside mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, brushed aluminum roof rails, and deep-tinted glass There are a total of eight available exterior color options.

Although the Luxury trim may not feel as upscale as a high-end model, its interior is comfortable. Power front seats with built-in heating modes and dual-zone automatic climate control help passengers to unwind. Families will also appreciate the XT5’s standard reclining rear seats and rear air vents. When preparing to load travel bags and other gear, drivers can open the power liftgate by simply pressing the key fob.

Once regarded as one of the worst infotainment systems in the business, Cadillac’s CUE interface has improved greatly. Drivers can easily operate the system’s 8.0-inch touchscreen. Modern infotainment features, such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, make this system more rewarding to use. As expected, Bluetooth technology is integrated into the system.

A big plus for families is the XT5 Luxury’s onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. Passengers can surf the web and stream videos without needing to use their phone’s mobile data. Cadillac also enables music listens to enjoy high-quality sound. A Bose premium stereo system powers a total of eight speakers. Satellite radio, Amazon Alexa, and four USB ports are standard as well.

Whether it’s the middle of July or the beginning of winter, the XT5’s standard remote engine starter will come in handy. Drivers will be able to start the vehicle’s climate control system before stepping outdoors. Proximity keyless entry with push-button start is another nice convenience.

This vehicle’s standard Cadillac Smart System provides some reassuring safety features. When a potential crash is sensed, GM’s innovative Safety Alert Seat will produce a vibrating pulse to warn the driver. Meanwhile, a Following Distance Indicator helps drivers to avoid tailgating other vehicles. To give commuters more protection when driving along busy streets, Cadillac equips the XT5 with Front Pedestrian Detection.

Another beneficial safety feature is the vehicle’s Rear Seat Reminder, which makes kids and pets less likely to be forgotten. Other notable features include an HD backup camera, forward collision warning with pre-collision braking, intelligent high beams, and lane-keeping technology.

When parents allow their youngsters to get behind the wheel, they’ll appreciate the XT5’s Teen Driver system. This system can help prevent teenagers from speeding and failing to buckle their safety belt. It also uses software to create a driving report card, which can be sent directly to a parent’s smartphone.

Fortunately, the base Luxury trim doesn’t go without GM’s excellent OnStar emergency response system. In the event of a crash, the system can automatically contact emergency personnel. Drivers can also push a blue OnStar button to reach out for roadside assistance.

Another notch up the trim ladder is the mid-level XT5 Premium Luxury. While it demands around an extra $5,800, some car shoppers will desire its upgraded amenities.

The Premium Luxury trim of Cadillac's XT5 offers drivers an optional powertrain to unleash 310 horsepower and reach 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, perfect for those needing to tow with peace of mind. Smart Towing package keeps the SUV running smoothly via a heavy duty cooling system and hitch guidance camera system - up to 3,500 pounds can be towed without any worries.

The V6-powered XT5 is not quite as good on gas. Drivers can anticipate getting about 18 mpg in town and 26 mpg of the interstate. Fortunately, cheaper regular gasoline remains the recommended fuel type.

Exterior upgrades further distinguish the Premium Luxury trim. Its side mirrors feature power-folding and auto-dimming functions. Illuminating door handles and Rainsense automatic wipers add to this trim’s luxuriousness. This mid-level trim also upgrades to a hands-free liftgate.

Enjoy the opulence of your Cadillac even more with lavish upgrades that make each trip a sublime experience. With desired comfort just one touch away via its power-adjustable, heated steering wheel and luxuriously soft leather seating surfaces providing delightful indulgence while you drive, it also has an ultraview dual pane sunroof to afford passengers captivating views during their ride as well as memory setting for the driver’s seat and sophisticated ambient interior lighting completing this luxurious package.

More high-tech features are found on the Premium Luxury trim. Drivers will especially benefit from the blind-spot warning system. It scans for unseen traffic when backing up and changing lanes. While traveling, drivers can rely on the SUV’s built-in navigation system to provide turn-by-turn directions. Wireless phone charging makes it easier for drivers to powered up their mobile devices.

An even better-sounding Bose Performance Series audio system comes equipped on the XT5 Premium Luxury. It packs a total of 15 high-performance speakers. Centerpoint surround technology helps promote enhanced clarity.

Cadillac's Premium Luxury trim features an impressive Technology package including the innovative Rearview Camera Mirror which offers a live video stream, giving drivers more visibility than ever before. Equipped with surround-view camera systems and automated parking technology to simplify your drive, this premium experience doesn't stop there - additional amenities include a digital gauge cluster for maximum awareness, rear pedestrian alerting capabilities plus head-up instrument display providing a comprehensive luxury driving experience.

A Platinum Package can be added to the Premium Luxury trim. It brings an additional number of comforting amenities, thus enabling passengers to experience a more relaxed trip. Highlights include three-zone automatic temperature control, ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats. To give the cabin a more high-end feel, Cadillac adds a microfiber headliner and upgraded aniline leather upholstery.

All the Technology package’s niceties come with the Platinum Package. This package also improves handling by adding a performance-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers. Other goodies include illuminated door sill plates and upgraded 20-inch wheels.

The automaker's Driver Assist package offers an upgrade from their Technology package, with added safety features to keep you secure and in control. Thanks to advanced radar technology, the SUV can monitor traffic flow automatically and adjust speed accordingly - so no surprises when hitting sudden brake lights on the highway! Plus get full-speed automatic emergency braking for those unexpected moments as well as rear automatic braking for maximum security.

Compare the Premium Luxury vs Sport Trims. What is the difference?

The Sport trim has the range’s most expensive starting MSRP. Howver, it comes standard with Cadillac’s stronger V6 engine. No other trim is as agile. A sports-calibrated AWD system helps the SUV to grip the road. The Premium Luxury trim’s optional performance-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers also comes standard. Meanwhile, stronger Brembo brakes optimize stopping power.

Racier exterior styling details help the XT5 Sport to make a more powerful statement. A performance grille gives the front fascia a more aggressive look. Larger 20-inch wheels with red brake calipers enhance this trim’s sportiness. Gloss black roof rails and blacked-out accents add more flair.

Aside from a few differences, the same optional packages are available for the Sport trim.

Final Thoughts

The Cadillac XT5 Luxury trim is the perfect ride for anyone seeking smart creature comforts, top-notch safety features, and cost-effective fuel economy. With an easy to use infotainment system plus GM's OnStar emergency response service riders can rest assured they’ll reach their destination—no matter how far away it may be - in complete comfort and peace of mind.

With its luxe leather upholstery and V6 engine, the Premium Luxury trim of this SUV is sure to please. Upgrade your drive with integrated navigation, a beautiful panoramic sunroof, an invigorating audio system and blind-spot monitoring for added safety - all without breaking the bank! The optional Platinum Package provides brilliant amenities too; however it bumps up cost by almost five grand. For those on a budget but still wanting extra features can opt into the Technology package which offers great value for money.

Looking for more exciting driving dynamics? Look no further than the XT5 Sport. Its remarkable handling and stylish design make it one of the top choices when you're searching for a thrilling ride - with cornering maneuvers that provide precision control. Of course, all this luxury does come at a cost: A starting price tag of over $57,000 before additional features like ventilated front seats and color head-up display are taken into account.


Compare Trims on other 2023 Cadillac models:

2023 Cadillac XT5 Trims
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2022 Cadillac XT5 Trim Levels