What We Expect From the Next-Gen Cadillac XT5

Here at Snell Cadillac, we enjoy exploring different options, discovering what is available, and helping our customers find the perfect vehicle. Cadillac makes this easier by providing an incredible selection of cars and SUVs, but the only way we can truly help is to fully understand everything Cadillac offers and to have a sense of what’s on the horizon. Whether you’re interested in a Cadillac XT5 for sale near Owatonna right now or just curious about what Cadillac is cooking up, we’re here to help you with everything you need. Although there are many Cadillac models we’re excited about, few are quite as compelling as the updated version of the XT5 that we expect to see in the next year or two. Let’s take a look at what we know and make some predictions about what we’ll see when this next-gen beauty hits the road.

The Updated Cadillac XT5: Just the Facts

To begin, let’s examine the facts we know for certain, or those we can confidently assert based on information from Cadillac and GM. Honestly, there’s not much to work with here, as we’re discussing a vehicle that’s a couple of years away, so there haven’t been many official updates. One thing we know for sure is that the Cadillac XT5 is not going to be discontinued anytime soon, despite plenty of speculation to the contrary a year ago. In fact, sales of the XT5 have been quite strong, even though it hasn’t undergone significant changes since its release with the 2017 model year, so an all-new version should simply boost those sales.

We’re also fairly certain that the updated Cadillac XT5 (we’ll address issues with its release date later) will be a complete redesign. The language from Cadillac and GM so far has talked about a “next-generation” version of the XT5, likely built on an updated platform. Because its current design and platform are nearly a decade old, that makes sense to us. Otherwise, we’re pretty sure it will continue to be built at the Spring Hill Assembly Plant in Tennessee, which is good news for American auto workers.

Powertrain and Performance

Honestly, that’s about it for what we know for sure, which isn’t much to go off of, but it’s enough to get us started. From that little bit, we can speculate and come up with some educated guesses about what this updated XT5 might look like. For one thing, the XT5 was recently updated in China (where it’s also a popular model), so that can inform some things we know. The updated Chinese version features a hybrid powertrain, combining a conventional gas engine with a battery-powered motor, so we wouldn’t be surprised to see it arrive here.

Currently, the XT5 is equipped with a standard 2.0L turbocharged engine, with a naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 engine available for enhanced performance as you drive around Owatonna each day. We would be genuinely surprised if these two engines carry over into the updated version, given that the mild-hybrid available on the Chinese version has garnered a lot of attention. GM also appears to be moving away from its V6 engines in updates, which further suggests that we won’t see it return. The only information we’ve seen comes from a statement GM provided to Motortrend, in which they said the updated XT5 will be a “next-generation gas-powered vehicle,” so don’t expect an all-electric version (Cadillac has the LYRIQ for an electric midsize SUV).

Exterior Refresh and Revision

To complement its enhanced and updated performance, we expect the exterior of the XT5 to undergo a complete overhaul. The last mid-cycle refresh for the XT5 was for the 2020 model year, so while it looks fantastic, there’s no denying that we’d love to see it get a makeover. We don’t expect anything too drastic, such as a change in class, so we anticipate it will still be a stylish and sophisticated midsize model. The updated version in China gives us some hints of what we might see.

This could include a bolder, more distinct front grille along with revised headlights that create a stronger, more sophisticated overall appearance as you drive around Owatonna. It will likely grow a little in size (but not too much), and we expect to see options for all-wheel drive and different wheel sizes (like 20-inch and 21-inch) to go along with the updated engine. At the back, we expect updated taillights to complement the new front end, along with a functional tailgate that will have options for hands-free opening and closing to make your life easier.

Interior Changes and New Tech

The interior of the all-new Cadillac XT5 is likely to undergo a complete redesign, updating and refreshing its appearance and features. It could become a bit more spacious inside for its new generation, but we don’t expect to see a third row added or anything like that. Comfortable seating is a given since this is a Cadillac, but we expect to see enhanced features and gorgeous details, including semi-aniline leather seats and real wood trim. Metal details (likely aluminum) could also be found in some models to create a rich overall cabin.

Although expectations for tech features could certainly change in the next couple of years, we would be shocked to see the same two displays in an updated model. The version in China now features a gorgeous 33-inch curved display across the front end, rather than separate infotainment and driver screens. You can see similar displays in the current Cadillac Escalade and XT4 models, so it seems likely that we’ll find it in the new XT5 as well. Otherwise, we expect an AKG sound system to be available (similar systems are currently available for other Cadillac models), along with a digital rearview mirror, head-up display, and more.

2027 or 2028 Model Year?

You might’ve noticed that we haven’t discussed a model year for the updated Cadillac XT5; that’s because there’s a surprising bit of speculation surrounding this. Many news outlets expect the updated XT5 to be a 2027 model, as evident from numerous websites. The comments directly from GM to Motortrend, however, indicate that it will be a 2028 model that launches in the second half of 2027. That’s a significant difference, but there has been no official announcement from Cadillac or GM regarding this matter, so we’ll have to wait and see.

Once an announcement is made, we hope for more information, such as which trims will be available. Currently, we expect to offer three similar trims, similar to those available now: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport. However, if only one engine is available, the Sport trim could be replaced by something like a Premium Luxury Platinum trim (which is currently available on the Escalade).

What’s Cadillac Have in Store for Owatonna Drivers?

Whatever specifics we end up getting with the upcoming, all-new Cadillac XT5, there’s no doubt that it will be worth the wait. The XT5 is a fantastic choice for a comfortable and sophisticated ride to get you around Owatonna each day, but the current model does show its age. We’re fans of every Cadillac vehicle, but we’re also realistic, and we’re excited to see what this updated model brings to the road. There’s no denying that the next-gen XT5 is going to be something special, and we’re anxiously awaiting every new detail and bit of news we can get our hands on. In the meantime, we’re happy to showcase everything the current Cadillac lineup has to offer and discuss what’s coming in the next couple of years.

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