Cadillac is all about multi-use vehicles in recent years, and it now offers crossover SUVs in three different sizes. The XT5, with two rows of seating, represents the midpoint of that lineup, size-wise. Cadillac says the XT5 is the best-selling vehicle in its class, and for 2020, it’s getting a powertrain transplant along with a gaggle of technological upgrades to keep its occupants comfortable and entertained.
The biggest change for 2020, driven largely by fuel-economy considerations, is the adoption of the General Motors’ 2.0-liter inline four with twin-scroll turbocharging as the base XT5 engine. The XT5 is available in three trim levels, with standard front drive and available all-wheel drive: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport. The higher trim levels get the GM 3.6-liter, normally aspirated V-6 as their base engine. I recently drove a Chevrolet Equinox LT that was fitted with the same 2.0 turbo, which was more than capable of long-distance cruising in excess of 90 MPH (I’m not saying where). With direct fuel injection, camshaft phasing, cylinder deactivation and automatic start-stop, the turbo engine’s numbers are 237hp and 258-lbs.ft. of torque. Among the tech additions are improved connectivity, an new rotary controller for interior functions, automated parking assist, a rear pedestrian detector and available night vision. Built in Spring Hill, Tennessee – remember, the former home of Saturn – the revised XT5 goes on sale in late summer.
Jim Donnelly On Wheels 