The upcoming XT5 replacement for the Cadillac SRX makes its US debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this week after premiering in Dubai earlier in November. XT5 is part of a new series of Cadillac crossovers, all with the “XT” designation, with the number indicating relative size. SRX is Cadillac’s best-selling product line worldwide, although the brand is regional when compared to the global luxury powerhouses of Audi, BMW and Lexus. (Cadillac Links with Public School on 2017 XT5 Debut)
Cadillac XT5 appears mostly new, and is claimed to be built on a unique chassis and structure. The new XT5 is 278 pounds (126 kg) lighter than the current SRX, and 100 pounds (45 kg) lighter than the Audi Q5 – despite the Cadillac being seven inches longer. The new XT5 is more than 650 pounds (295 kg) lighter than the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.
Weight reduction is accomplished with many of the techniques applied on the Cadillac CTS and ATS sport sedans – the lightest cars in their respective segments. This includes laser welding, ultra-high-strength steel and advanced analytics that ensure a stronger structure, and excellent crash performance with less overall bulk.
“Reducing mass and bulk not only improves driving dynamics, it enables us to improve interior space and fuel efficiency,” says David Leone, Cadillac executive chief engineer.
The new architecture delivers a wheelbase two inches longer than the SRX, and a track one inch wider, enabling more usable interior space. As a result, rear-seat legroom is increased 3.2 in. (8.1 cm) in the XT5, compared to the SRX. The rear seat reclines and slides fore and aft, as well. However, the XT5’s overall length, width and height are fractionally smaller than the SRX.
The interior reflects Cadillac’s evolving design language, recently seen on the upcoming CT6 Sedan with uninterrupted lines separated by crisp edges.Interior surfaces inside the XT5 are wider and more horizontal in orientation, emphasizing efficient use of space. Like all Cadillac models, the interior is assembled with cut-and-sewn wrapped panels, rather than molded surfaces typical of mainstream vehicles.
“We believe that luxury crossover customers particularly focus on interior design and materials,” said Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive director of global design. “This design direction is predicated on modern craftsmanship and the artistic integration of technology.”
Cadillac will offer a Platinum edition for the first time in this segment. Made popular initially on Cadillac’s Escalade, the XT5 Platinum includes unique interior and exterior trim and materials and combines them with the highest technology features. In total, the XT5 includes five interior color and trim choices, with decorative trim options ranging from carbon fiber to two types of aluminum and three types of genuine wood.
In the U.S. market, the 2017 Cadillac XT5 will be powered by the new 3.6-liter V6 engine that debuted earlier this year on the brand’s ATS, CTS sport sedans and on the CT6. This engine has been completely redesigned with Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation that allows the engine to “seamlessly” switch to a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode under low or moderate loads.
With an estimated peak output of 310-horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque, the new V6 uses now common variable valve timing for strong response. Cadillac’s Stop/Start technology automatically stops and starts the engine when the vehicle is at rest in traffic stops, saving fuel and reducing emissions while enhancing the quietness expected of a luxury vehicle.
In China, the XT5 will be offered with a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Powerful, yet compact, the 2.0T also has Stop/Start technology.
A new 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the XT5, which also debuts Electronic Precision Shift – the first electronically controlled transmission shifter for a Cadillac. Electronic Precision Shift is said to reduce noise and vibration, and it allows for greater use of the cabin space with a storage space beneath the center console.
An optional new advanced “twin clutch” all-wheel drive system continuously and automatically delivers excellent traction across a variety of conditions. While engineered specifically for strong performance in wet, snowy or icy conditions, it also provides enhanced stability in dry weather.
Due to the twin clutch design, the AWD system is capable of transferring up to 100% of available torque to either the front or rear axle. In addition, across the rear axle, the electronically controlled rear differential can direct up to 100% of available torque to either wheel.
This capability is designed for “split-coefficient” surfaces, such as when there is more water, ice or snow on one side of the road surface than the other. The AWD system is driver-controlled, and includes a new “disconnect” feature that disables the rear drive unit for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
The new suspension features lightweight components with a MacPherson Strut design in the front and a five-link independent design at the rear. Standard wheels are 18-inches with 20-inch wheels optional. All versions equipped with 20-inch wheels have a Continuous Damping Control system to manage ride control in real time. Additional ride bushings on the rear cradle are exclusive to the XT5 Platinum model and are specifically tuned to provide added ride comfort for rear seat passengers.
