2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 showcased Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a refined luxury brand. With updates from the previous year, the XT5 featured a more distinct exterior design, including standard LED lights and 20-inch wheels, which highlighted its robust proportions. Inside, the XT5 offered a more upscale interior compared to its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, with cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents. The Premium Luxury trim level, in particular, exuded elegance, though it fell short of the opulence found in the Escalade.

The 2021 BMW X5 maintained the brand's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, with a design that was unmistakably BMW. Its exterior featured adaptive LED headlights and a choice of styling options, including the sporty M Sport package. The interior, while consistent with BMW's design language, offered a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for an abundance of black plastic. The M Sport models added unique styling elements, enhancing the sporty feel. Despite its sameness, the X5's interior was comfortable and well-appointed.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 was available in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport. The Luxury and Premium Luxury trims came standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. An optional 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque, was available for the Premium Luxury trim and standard on the Sport trim. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The XT5's V6 engine provided immediate throttle response, though it could benefit from more low-end torque. Fuel economy for the AWD V6 model exceeded expectations, achieving about 25 mpg during testing.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, while the X5 M delivered 600 horsepower, increasing to 617 with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, with a 30-mile all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were less engaging than expected, with dynamics likened to a Lincoln.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered seating for four adults across two rows, though it technically accommodated five with a three-seat bench in the second row. While legroom was adequate, headroom was limited for taller passengers. The front seats, though visually appealing, were less comfortable on long trips. The XT5 provided 30 cubic feet of cargo space, with a deep rear area hampered by wheel bump-outs. Small-item storage was limited, with no ideal spot for a smartphone within easy reach.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The front seats were comfortable for short trips but became hard on longer journeys. The rear seats were spacious enough for children and two adults, with an optional third row available. The X5's split liftgate and vehicle height adjustment feature facilitated loading cargo. Without the third row, the cargo area was ample, though the doors did not open wide enough for easy access to the second row.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and a rotary controller. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker Bose sound system. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system were available. The XT5 also offered a rear camera mirror and a head-up display. The digital instrument cluster provided essential vehicle information, while the infotainment screen could darken at night for a less distracting experience.

The 2021 BMW X5 came with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The standard features included a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, massaging seats, and a 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar. Wireless Apple CarPlay had connectivity quirks, occasionally taking over music operations unexpectedly.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-change alert with side blind-zone alert. The Night Vision technology enhanced nighttime drivability, while the Teen Driver software allowed parents to monitor and limit vehicle features. A rearview camera and rear-seat reminder were standard.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received high safety ratings from the IIHS but had several recalls and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.