A Beautiful Form from Any Angle

The Cadillac XT5, released in Japan on October 28th,XT5 Crossoveris also a brand-new Cadillac, the first released since the brand moved its headquarters to New York. Positioned as the successor to the Cadillac SRX,SRXit is a luxury crossover. New Cadillacs will now be given model names that suggest their class through numbering, similar to BMW and Audi. Following the Cadillac CT6, its full-size prestige sedan,CT6this XT5 Crossover is the next model to be announced.

Its design makes it clear at a glance that this is a brand-new model. Cadillac's flagship luxury SUV is the Escalade,Escaladea model introduced to save Cadillac from falling into conservatism, a fate that befell brands with tradition and history. Its success revitalized the brand. Because of this success, the imposing, large, and luxurious Escalade sat at the top, with the SRX being a slightly smaller version. However, the XT5 Crossover feels liberated from the Escalade's shadow, with a modern exterior design.

The form, drawn with smooth curves, is beautiful from any angle. At the same time, the vertical accents around the front and rear lights instantly identify it as a Cadillac. It's not just modern; from certain angles, it leans more towards heritage than modernity.

An Authentic Yet Modern Interior

This atmosphere extends richly to the interior. For example, the XT5 Crossover Platinum's "Crystal White Tricoat" and "Stellar Black Metallic" exterior colors are paired with an interior color called "Maple Sugar / Jet Black Accents." The nubuck-like leather finish and the satin rosewood trim with a subdued sheen create an interior that is both authentic and modern. The balance is reminiscent of Aman Resorts.

As you may know, Cadillac has been a leading luxury brand in premium cars worldwide since its establishment in 1902. Since 2015, it has been reorganized into an independent business unit within GM, with its headquarters moved to New York, focusing on releasing products with cutting-edge technology. The XT5 Crossover is the first model released from this new Cadillac. Incidentally, Cadillac's President, Johan de Nysschen, previously served as the president of Audi Japan in the 2000s. His success in Japan led to his career advancement. President de Nysschen's fondness for Japan is also good news for Japanese users.

Equipped with the Latest Devices Through Cutting-Edge Technology

As mentioned earlier, the focus on "cutting-edge technology" is immediately apparent when driving this car.

The cabin's tranquility is exceptional. This is largely due to the lightweight, high-rigidity body, achieved through the extensive use of ultra-high-strength steel, laser welding, and structural adhesives, resulting in a 90kg weight reduction compared to previous models. Simply put, it doesn't creak even on rough roads with vertical shaking, and there's no uncomfortable "settling" or rebound. The refinement of the ride quality is significantly improved.

Furthermore, the abundance of the latest devices, which would take too much space to list, is a significant advantage of the XT5 Crossover.

Advanced safety features utilizing radar, cameras, and ultrasonic sensors, including the "Driver Awareness Package" that monitors driving conditions and alerts the driver when necessary, and the "Driver Assist Package" that assists the driver's operations. Additionally, there are automatic braking for low-speed driving front and rear, Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with full-speed range, and Automatic Parking Assist.

When reversing in parking lots, the Surround Vision, which displays a 360° view of the car's surroundings on the center display as if viewed from directly above, is invaluable. The full-color head-up display, standard on the Platinum model, also becomes indispensable once you get used to it.

The Most Contemporary Cadillac

Most notably, the combination of the new-generation 3.6L V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, and AWD system is superb, with their synergistic integration being exceptionally well-executed. For fuel efficiency, front-wheel drive is the default driving mode, but switching to AWD or Sport mode allows for more enjoyable driving while maintaining cabin comfort. It's recommended to actively switch modes: use the default for steady highway cruising and Sport mode for mountain roads.

The Bose 14-speaker Studio Surround Sound system, standard on the Platinum model, also deserves special mention. It features a custom design tailored to the acoustic characteristics of the cabin, and the Bose Active Noise Cancellation ensures quietness. Despite being an SUV, which typically has more tire and wind noise, the sound of a classical concert can be enjoyed as if you were in the audience, even at high speeds.

The XT5 Crossover is the most contemporary Cadillac. The latest trends, devices, and technologies are packaged within its authentic yet modern form, and driving it often overturns traditional perceptions of Cadillac. The refined lightweight, high-rigidity body is a prime example of this.

Yet, it is instantly recognizable as a Cadillac. The exterior hints at a premium feel and a comfortable ride, and opening the door and sitting in the seat never betrays that expectation.

Though a worn idiom, "tradition and innovation" perfectly describes the XT5 Crossover. Or perhaps, "learning from the past to inform the future." Contemporary comfort remains steadfastly present in its cabin.

Designer Yoji Yoneyama of "M.A.R.S." Discusses the Appeal of the "XT5 Crossover" →

Cadillac XT5 Crossover Luxury
Cadillac XT5 Crossover Platinum
Body Dimensions | Length 4,825 x Width 1,915 x Height 1,700 mm
Wheelbase | 2,860 mm
Weight | 1,990 kg
Engine | 3,649 cc V6 DOHC VVT
Maximum Output | 231 kW (314 ps) / 6,700 rpm
Maximum Torque | 368 Nm (37.5 kgm) / 5,000 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed AT (8EAT)
Drivetrain | AWD
Seating Capacity | 5 people
Price | (Luxury) ¥6,190,000 (Platinum) ¥6,990,000

• Cadillac XT5 Crossover Detailed Information