2022 Lexus ES vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2022 Lexus ES, a staple in the Lexus lineup since its debut in 1990, had evolved over seven generations by 2022. Despite a decline in sales since its peak in 2007, the ES remained a popular choice among an older demographic. Lexus faced the challenge of attracting younger buyers without alienating its loyal customer base, resulting in a design that was both safe and slightly unconventional. The latest generation, launched in 2018, was built on the Global Architecture-K platform, offering a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout with optional all-wheel drive. The ES featured elegant proportions, a sleek roofline, and the distinctive Lexus "spindle" grille. Inside, the dashboard was asymmetrical, with a cockpit feel on the driver's side, and the F Sport model boasted bold two-tone leather seating.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac CT5, tested in Southern California, stood out in a market dominated by Asian and German luxury cars. The CT5-V model, with its unique light gray metallic Rift color and 19-inch aluminum wheels, garnered attention on the road. Positioned between the standard CT5 and the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing, the CT5-V offered a sporty yet refined design. The interior featured a mix of high-quality materials and some cost-cutting elements, with leather, matte-finish buttons, and stainless steel speaker grilles. Despite some hard plastic panels, the CT5-V provided standard ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The CT5-V's technology was user-friendly, with logical controls and simple display graphics.

The 2022 Lexus ES offered three models, each with distinct powertrains. The base ES 250 AWD featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, achieving 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway/28 mpg combined. It accelerated from 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph. The ES 350, with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivered 307 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The ES 300h hybrid combined a 176-hp four-cylinder engine with a 39-hp electric motor for a total of 215 horsepower, achieving 43 mpg city/44 mpg highway/44 mpg combined. The ES 250 AWD, while smooth and predictable, felt slow compared to its siblings.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V housed a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg combined. The 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. The CT5-V offered various driving modes, including Tour, Sport, Track, My Mode, and V-Mode, allowing drivers to customize steering, suspension, and engine characteristics. The Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping suspension and Brembo front brakes enhanced performance, while the resonant exhaust note added to the driving experience. Despite some road noise and suspension racket, the CT5-V excelled in balance, body control, and grip.

The 2022 Lexus ES provided 13.9 cubic feet of trunk space, with a pass-through for long items and fold-flat rear seats in the ES 250 and ES 350 models. The sedan's lower center of gravity and ground clearance contributed to better handling compared to the Lexus RX SUV. Inside, the ES offered ample storage, with bottle pockets, cupholders, and a spacious glove compartment. The dashboard layout was functional, with a prominent volume knob for the audio system.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5, built on the same platform as the smaller CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, offered a roomier interior. The standard 18-way power-adjustable front seats, wrapped in Inteluxe artificial leather, provided comfort and support. Genuine leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel were optional. The rear seat offered good thigh support and knee clearance, though the door frame made entry and exit challenging. The CT5-V's trunk, at 11.9 cubic feet, was small and narrow, but hidden storage under the trunk floor and a deep well for items like wine bottles added practicality.

The 2022 Lexus ES featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. A 10-speaker Pioneer sound system, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard. Upper trims offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Mark Levinson 17-speaker audio, and navigation. The ES included a 10-inch head-up display and a Panoramic View Monitor with Intuitive Parking Assist. Lexus Enform connected services provided safety, maintenance, and remote features.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V's Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and OnStar services. A Bose 15-speaker audio system, wireless smartphone charging, and Alexa Built-in were standard. The CT5-V offered an optional navigation system, head-up display, and high-definition surround-view camera. Super Cruise 1 Package added hands-free driving assistance, a driver monitoring camera, and a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Lexus ES received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Standard safety features included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, with pre-collision detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and Intelligent High Beam Control. Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 10 airbags were also standard.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5 featured the Cadillac Smart System, with forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and a vibrating Safety Alert Seat. The CT5-V added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic rear braking. The optional Super Cruise 1 Package offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, with automated lane-change functionality.