2017 Cadillac XT5 AWD Platinum – Superb Premium Crossover!

By Autoreviewman

The 2017 Cadillac XT5, is a fitting replacement for the venerable Cadillac SRX Crossover. With a luxury midsize CUV market growing by leap and bound, it is becoming an increasingly important sector for the luxury auto brands.    In the looks department, the XT5 is not all razor edged Cadillac, but features a softer, curvier, more organic look, although the corporate Caddy grille and large, vertical elongated headlights are still a feature. However there is less and more understated chrome trim and a more refined cohesive look to the XT5. The standard powertrain for the 2017 model year is a new 3.6-liter V-6, making 310 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. The V-6, is mated to an 8-speed Aisin automatic gearbox.

The first-ever 2017 Cadillac XT5 is a comprehensively upgraded luxury crossover and the cornerstone of a new series of crossovers in the brand’s ongoing expansion. The XT5 further builds on Cadillac’s trademark attributes of distinctive, sophisticated and agile vehicles. Pictured: 2017 Cadillac XT5 Platinum; Exterior paint shown in in Red Passion Tintcoat; Interior environment shown in Maple Sugar with Jet Black accents and Satin Rosewood wood trim.

The interior continues Cadillac’s edgy theme with a neat, sleek look to the dash and interior trim panels. We tested the All-Wheel Drive upmarket top of the line Platinum edition that replaces the eighteen-inch standard wheels with the 20-inch 12 spoke rims and features host of upgrades such as continuously adaptive shocks, and softer suspension bushings for a better ride. Along with the usual standard power features, the XT5 offers the revised Cadillac CUE interface, with the system upgraded with a faster processor. Tech features include, Wireless phone charging, 4G LTE hotspot compatibility, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto that finish off the connectivity package. LED headlamps and a gesture-controlled power tailgate are also featured on the top Platinum model, along with a head-up display, a surround-view camera, ambient LED lighting, and a unique exhaust outlet. The Platinum also   features a high-definition rearview mirror that uses cameras to relay an unobstructed panoramic rear view. In the real world it’s an incredibly cool piece of technology that aids superbly in almost eliminating blind spots during highway lane changes.

The interior is simply world-class with a heady mixture of deep wood trim, leather, bright metal trim and luxurious suede touches. It is a roomy, opulently finished cabin with comfortable front and rear seats.   MRSP for our tester came in at $68,695. Options on our tester included: the red Passion tintcoat paint ($575) trailer package ($655).

The Cadillac brand edges high and higher and the XT5 Is a great example of the continuing climb. Highly recommended as a premium domestic crossover.

 2017 Cadillac XT5 Platinum Base price: $68,695; Price as tested – $72,350 with options, and destination charge.