We aren’t thrilled with the V-6 engine in the Cadillac XT5. In the past, we’ve called it coarse and said it lacks gusto, which is disappointing considering the vehicle is otherwise fun to drive with sharp steering and handling. Now, the XT5 is adding a turbocharged four-cylinder engine option that we hope is better matched to the luxury crossover.
A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four is one of the many updates coming to the 2020 Cadillac XT5, which goes on sale late this summer. The new engine makes 237 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It gets a three-step sliding camshaft that Cadillac says will provide a “feeling of on-demand power at all speeds.” The 3.6-liter V-6 making 310 hp and 271 lb-ft is still available. Cadillac got rid of the sleepy eight-speed, and now all models receive a new nine-speed automatic.
The automaker also switched up the trim levels. Luxury is the base model, and Premium Luxury features special bright trim. Both trims get driveline updates that promise improvements in ride comfort. The new Sport trim gets dark accents, 20-inch wheels, and more athletic chassis tuning. The four-cylinder engine is standard on Luxury and Premium Luxury, and the V-6 is standard on Sport and available on Premium Luxury.
Along with a bolder exterior design that includes an updated grille, the XT5 receives a revamped interior with new color themes. Heated front seats are now standard, and there is a new center console that includes updated cup holders. The XT5 receives the latest CUE infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen. Drivers can choose to operate the screen with a new rotary controller instead of touch. Other tech updates include one-touch phone pairing, a higher-resolution display for the rearview camera, enhanced automatic parking assist with braking, and available night vision. A Platinum package is available on every trim, offering top-notch interior amenities.
The automaker has yet to announce fuel economy numbers on the four-cylinder XT5. But we do know the new engine won’t decrease the starting price. The XT5 begins at $45,090 with front-wheel drive, well above the $42,690 entry price of the 2019 model. Premium Luxury goes from $49,790, and Sport models will cost you at least $56,090.
Source: GM