Edgy, even among modern SUVs

Hirano-san drove an older Range Rover for eight years, passing its vehicle inspection four times. His image of Cadillac was of a classic, full-size American car, like the presidential limousine.

"So, when I actually saw the XT5 crossover, its compact size surprised me in a good way. It felt more approachable than I expected, like it was designed for a wider audience. The matte buffed finish on the wheels and the use of chrome accents throughout the exterior are flashy, which feels very American. On the other hand, the interior design, with its elegant wood tones, is calm and gives an impression closer to European cars."

He also finds the matte, natural feel of the wood in the XT5 appealing, compared to the more glossy finish often seen in European cars.

"Unlike the boxy designs of old Cadillacs, it's modern. Even with the rise of contemporary SUVs, it still has an edge. Cadillac has always been visually a bit sharp, hasn't it? Yet, when you touch the seats or switches, they're smooth and soft. I feel there's a fundamental assertion of being different from British or German cars. The rearview mirror is a digital display with a wide field of vision, and the tray for smartphones has wireless charging – those aspects are extremely modern. It's a calming space, yet it also has a sporty feel. When you go outdoors, the weather can be bad, so I felt the interior offers a sense of protection and security."

A refined yet sporty drive

Today, Hirano-san's attire, chosen to complement the XT5, consisted of a jacket from The Gigi, a shirt from Luigi Borrelli, trousers from Civiltà, Alden cordovan plain-toe shoes, and a Cartier Tank watch.

"With SUVs, a country-style outfit is naturally the expected choice. I also use many casual items. However, bright colors like green or orange can easily look too outdoorsy, and too many colors can detract from a sophisticated urban feel. So, while the items are casual, I've kept the colors subdued and monochromatic to achieve a sense of quality."

Indeed, as SUVs are inherently rugged items, styling them for city driving requires a certain level of composure to avoid appearing too brash or juvenile. Hirano-san feels that a slightly sharp, casual look is just right, even for a sporty vehicle. He also found the XT5's interior and driving performance impressive.

"The interior was beige and charcoal gray, but it had a rather soft ambiance. I could feel the inherent softness and comfort of the car. Moreover, the 3.6-liter V6 engine was smooth from the start, offering a great sense of agility. It's sporty, yet it also asserts a high degree of refinement. I like that."

What makes it feel different from European cars

He notes that features like the illuminated door handles that glow at night, and the logo graphics reminiscent of Piet Mondrian's abstract art, evoke the show business and entertainment world of New York. Hirano-san elaborates:

"I believe SUVs are fundamentally versatile vehicles, and the Cadillac XT5 crossover offers various approaches to that versatility. Its generosity in saying, 'Isn't it great to have fun?' is wonderful. It has a luxurious taste with an underlying sense of humor. That feels urban and New York-like, and it aligns with what Barneys New York aims for."

"I don't just recommend fashion based on intuition or details; I focus on how items can be combined and styled to create something more interesting. I strive to make proposals that involve logic, synergy, and harmony. So, I was pondering what this unique sense of comfort, different from European cars, could be. When I heard that 'Art & Science' is the design key, it all clicked."

The comfort and beauty stem from elements that can be perceived by the senses, yet are meticulously tuned and interconnected. The latest compact Cadillac, which offers pleasant stimulation as you delve deeper into your own sensibilities and engage openly with the world, might just be its defining characteristic.

Cadillac XT5 Crossover Luxury | Cadillac XT5 Crossover Luxury
Cadillac XT5 Crossover Platinum | Cadillac XT5 Crossover Platinum
Body Size | Length 4,825 × Width 1,915 × 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) ¥6,685,200

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CADILLAC X BARNEYS NEW YORK SPECIAL WINDOW DISPLAY
Window display embodying the Cadillac brand (Special event allowing customers to enter the window for commemorative photos)
Display Period | Tuesday, August 28, 2018 - Sunday, September 23, 2018
Photo Event Period | Friday, September 7, 2018 - Sunday, September 9, 2018
Photo Event Hours | 18:00 - 19:00
Location | Barneys New York Ginza Flagship Store, Suzuran-dori side window
6-8-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

FASHION AS MUSIC SPECIAL PARTY supported by CADILLAC
A one-night-only special party showcasing the world of Cadillac. Enjoy a special live performance by the acclaimed artist WONK, with DJ FAME as music selector, plus drinks and finger foods.
Date | Friday, September 7, 2018
Time | 18:00 - 20:30
Venue | Barneys New York Ginza Flagship Store B1
6-8-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

SALES FAIR -THE STYLE OF CADILLAC-
Gift | A complimentary Barneys New York original handkerchief embroidered with the Cadillac logo will be given to those who test drive at any Cadillac dealer nationwide.
Additionally, customers who purchase a Cadillac during the campaign period will receive a ¥50,000 gift card usable at Barneys New York.
Dates | Saturday, September 8, 2018, Sunday, September 9, 2018
Venue | All authorized Cadillac dealers nationwide (excluding some locations)

Barneys New York Creative Director Examines the Cadillac CT6

Cadillac and Barneys New York Collaboration Campaign

• Cadillac XT5 Details