You have to give Cadillac full marks for introducing a constant stream of new or reworked models to tempt us.
We’re only part way into the 2016 model year and already this General Motors premium division has introduced two new 2017 vehicles.
Joining the previously announced CT-6 flagship sedan is the XT5, a tall wagon that replaces the SRX. It’s being built both in North America and in China. The five-passenger wagon shares virtually nothing with the outgoing rig, hence, presumably, the new name. Even so, Cadillac chose not to fiddle too much with the overall dimensions, but a two-inch increase in distance between the front and rear wheels means more rear-seat legroom and a bit more stowage space behind the split-folding second-row bench.
As for styling, the SRX and XT5 share similar traits, but the latter’s front and rear ends are considerably sleeker and the side body panels are more sharply defined. The boomerang-like LED running lights and tail light lenses are particularly attractive and the SRX’s egg-crate grille has been replaced by eye-pleasing horizontal bars that bear some resemblance to the CT-6 sedan’s nosepiece.
Cadillacs are becoming highly regarded for their impressive interiors and the XT5 is no exception. The leather- and suede-covered dashboard’s combination of curviness and angularity really hits the mark, augmented with just the right amount of wood and satin-nickel trim. In addition, the rear seat can be adjusted fore and aft by up to 14 centimetres and can be tilted up to 12 degrees for balancing passenger comfort with cargo room.
But what really separates the old from the new is an all-new platform. The result is a vehicle that’s lighter by about 115 kilograms.
The reduced heft certainly helps the XT5’s powerplant. The 3.6-litre V-6 has the same displacement as in the SRX, but it has been engineered for slightly more spunkiness. Cylinder deactivation, which shuts down two of the six cylinders under light load conditions, helps reduce fuel consumption. Auto stop/start shuts off the engine at idle to help out a bit more. Output is rated at 310 horsepower and 270 foot-pounds of torque, up from 308/265.
For the time being, China is the only country that will get Cadillac’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder that makes 258 h.p. and 295 foot-pounds of torque.
Sending twisting force to the front or all four wheels (if the optional all-wheel-drive is selected) is handled by an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift paddles. The fuel rating of 12.9 (litres/100 kilometres) in the city and 8.9 on the highway betters the 14.2/9.8 numbers of the outgoing SRX.
Lessons learned from the SRX guided Cadillac engineers in fine-tuning the suspension for improved control and ride comfort while more feedback was dialed into the power-steering system.
With a starting price of $47,000, including destination fees, the XT5 contains plenty of luxury built-ins and add-ons, such as dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front and rear seats, rearview camera and an eight-inch touch screen that operates the communications and the eight-speaker Bose audio systems.
The Luxury trim level adds a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, front and rear park assist, rain-sensing wipers and a fancier set of 18-inch wheels.
The Premium Luxury increases the Premium’s content with a 14-speaker Bose audio package, voice-activated navigation, ventilated front seats with power lumbar support and 20-inch wheels. The Platinum comes with all-wheel drive, hands-free power tailgate plus all the very latest active safety features that help prevent collisions.
By any measure – looks, comfort, performance and safety – the XT5 is a solid effort that picks up where the outgoing SRX left off.
The specs
Type: Four-door, front- /all-wheel-drive mid-size wagon
Engine: 3.6-litre DOHC V-6 (310 h.p.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Market position: Tall crossover wagons of every description and from basic to fully loaded ultra-luxury editions have changed the face of the automotive industry. It’s a trend that Cadillac will continue to benefit from.
Points: In terms of front to back styling, this is one of Cadillac’s better efforts. The improved 3.6-litre V-6 should satisfy buyers, but the torquier, China-only turbo four-cylinder will hopefully become optional here. Creating more rear-seat room is just plain smart. Weight is the enemy, and Cadillac’s fat-trimming new platform will soon be shared by other GM family members.
Safety: Blind-spot warning (optional); cross-traffic alert (optional); autonomous cruise control (optional); pedestrian detection (optional)
Fuel efficiency: (l/100 km): 12.9 city, 8.9 highway
Base price: (including destination): $47,000
Competition
Lexus RX Base price: $56,400. Uniquely styled cornerstone model is also available as a fuel-sipping hybrid.
Lincoln MKX Base price: $49,000. Restyled Ford Edge-based car can be had with turbo or non-turbo V-6 engines.
Audi Q5 Base price: $44,600. Clean, classic good looks and engine choices from 220 to 354 h.p.
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