Cadillac Beefs Up Crossover Lineup with New XT5

General Motors Co.’s new Cadillac XT5 midsize crossover vehicle is lighter and more spacious than the SRX model it replaces. It also features a new 3.6-liter V-6 engine and a host of advanced technologies.

Cadillac took the wraps off the XT5—the first of four XT crossover models due to bow by the end of the decade—this week at the Dubai auto show in the United Arab Emirates. The 2017-model vehicle will be launched next spring in the U.S. and China.

Built on an all-new platform and employing ultra-high-strength steel, the five-passenger XT5 is 218 lbs lighter than the SRX. GM says the vehicle also is slimmer than two of its chief rivals, besting the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class by 650 lbs and the Audi Q5 by 100 lbs. The stronger and stiffer chassis also helps improve driving dynamics, the carmaker notes.

With a 2-inch longer wheelbase than the SRX, the XT5 adds 3.2 inches of rear-seat legroom. The rear seats also reclines and slide. The new model’s overall length, width and height are slightly smaller than the SRX.

While the basic exterior design and shape of the SRX is retained, the XT5 sports a wider grille and creased hood. It also gets a cleaner interior layout with top-end materials.  

The new V-6, which bowed in the Cadillac ATS and CTS cars earlier this year, includes variable-valve timing and makes 310 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. The powerplant also uses cylinder deactivation and stop-start technology to further boost fuel economy.

A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine will be offered in China. Both powerplants will be mated with a new 8-speed automatic transmission.

A new twin-clutch, all-wheel-drive system is optional. The system can transfer 100% of available torque to either the front or rear axle, or to either rear wheel as needed.

The XT5 also is the first Cadillac model with an electronically controlled transmission shifter. GM says the compact system allows for more storage space below the center console and generates less noise and vibration than mechanical units.

A new rear-camera system, which debuts on the CT6 full-size sedan, displays streaming video images on the vehicle’s rearview mirror. GM says the technology increases a driver’s field of vision by as much as 300% and effectively eliminates rear-seat visual obstructions.

The XT5 also gets a hands-free rear liftgate, surround-vision parking aid, color head-up display and an upgraded infotainment system with a faster and more powerful processor. Other goodies include a wireless charger, wi-fi connectivity and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility.