2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport: Caddy's Best-Selling Crossover - AND WE CAN SEE WHY

Cadillac has offered a mid-size crossover since the 2004 model year with the first generation of the SRX however, that was a vastly different vehicle than what we see here. That first generation was more akin to the modern XT6 crossover a vehicle, as its name suggests, is larger than the XT5 we have here today. Second-generation SRX models rolled out as 2010 model year vehicles and fit the footprint of this XT5.

The XT5 model name came with the 2017 model year redesign of the SRX. Cadillac began transitioning away from its three-letter naming structure in favor of a two-letter prefix before a single digit denoting the size of the vehicle. Current Cadillac dealership lots are filled with cars (CT), crossovers (XT), and the Escalade (the only vehicle to keep its actual name. As the brand is on the precipice of full electrification, we may be on the verge of learning new names all over again. The first EV from Cadillac wears the Lyriq moniker, followed by the ultra-luxurious hand-built Celestiq that can cost upwards of $300,000.

This XT5 Sport AWD is a premium vehicle, but it does not even flirt with those kinds of dollar signs. For 2023, the XT5 starts at $44,195 and our well-optioned Sport AWD model wears its $69,340 price tag well thanks to a very luxurious interior.

As a compact (that is how Cadillac classifies it) crossover there is plenty of room inside for 5. No third row in this crossover, you would have to see the XT6 for that. All four outboard seats are heated, while the front seats have the added benefit of ventilation. Each is wrapped in beautiful “Maple Sugar” semi-aniline leather that is so soft and looks very premium. The leather continues onto the dash and doors and the ceiling and pillars are wrapped in a color-matched suede that makes you feel like you are in a caramel cocoon.

Exterior appointments on our sport include black accents in the grille, wheels, and around the windows, in place of all the chrome on “Luxury” trim vehicles. We appreciate the contrast against the pearl white paint of this model. The brakes are definitely sporty as they are Cadillac-branded Brembo units that really bite. The fact that they are red painted is even sweeter as it gives an even sportier edge to this vehicle.

All around, we could see ourselves being very happy with this model as it checks a lot of boxes for what we want in our next vehicle.