The Cadillac XT5 is considered a luxurious and highly reliable SUV, but not all clients can satisfy their needs with annual versions. In this ultimate guide, we’ll also discuss the Cadillac XT5 years to avoid and the reasons why so you can make the best decision when it comes to purchasing this car brand.
Which Model of Cadillac XT5 Years to Avoid
Some Cadillac XT5 model years have emerged as worst because of similar complaints from owners as well as various car enthusiasts. Potential buyers of a used XT5 should avoid the above-mentioned years to prevent frequent trips to the mechanic.
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Model Years affected and their issues
Here are the year model years with their problems:
2018 Cadillac XT5
The Cadillac XT5 2018 provided some outstanding luxury, and a comfortable ride, however, it has had many problems with reliability, especially with the electrical system. Some of the known grievances included faulty sensors, unresponsive touch screens, issues with power locks sometimes, and infotainment. Although it had the classic Cadillac luxury and such tech enhancements as usual, owners mentioned the car’s reliability decreasing over the period as the main drawback.
2019 Cadillac XT5
Cadillac enhanced the UI in the 2019 XT5 because the previous system was slow and cumbersome to use. However, the year under review recorded some losses in some areas of operation. The XT5 experienced some problems with its start-stop technology and has continued to receive complaints about the infotainment system as well as occasional concerns about the braking system. However, all these deficits have come with improvement in the 2019 model making it a better option as compared to the previous years.
2020 Cadillac XT5
As the 2020 model, Cadillac decided to make a mid-cycle update that majorly centered around increasing performance as well as luxury. It expanded the line-up with a new turbocharged, 2.0L with an acceptable amount of power, but much better fuel consumption. Cadillac also upgraded the trim and added a new center stack to the interior design. In general, the overall reliability of the 2020 XT5 was enhanced, and most of the recurring problems observed in the prior years were solved.
2021 Cadillac XT5
The 2021 Cadillac XT5 arrived with additional changes made to the strengths of the 2020 Cadillac XT5 model with even more standard technology and luxury package options. Regarding reliability, the enhancements went up, and to it, refined dynamic driving behavior absence of major reports. This year also made Cadillac recognized for better reliability and the XT5 is in a better position in the luxury SUV segment.
2022 Cadillac XT5
The 2022 Cadillac XT5 did not deviate from the usual luxury and performance as was the case with most complaints from previous years addressed. This model too went on giving both the options of the recycled 2.0L turbocharged engine and 3.6L V6 to keep the drivers in power and efficiency modes. The reliability rating of this year depicts an improved situation compared to the previous years and customer satisfaction is relatively high.
Features of the Cadillac XT5 years to avoid
However, the Cadillac XT5 could record its fair share of fluctuations, but of course, it is famed for its durable features. Here’s what you can generally expect across the lineup:
Interior
The model has a comfortable, generously proportioned interior with top-quality materials used on the XT5. All models have leather interiors, large trunks, and rather high-quality interior trim inlays which give this luxury vehicle a luxurious look and feel.
Technology
Most of the features of Cadillac are easy to operate, and some of them include Apple car play and Android auto. This model comes with higher trim and can be equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and parking sensors.
Performance
The majority of XT5 models are quite comfortable with robust V6 engines and good acceleration characteristics. There is relative fluctuation of fuel efficiency but flat of its class.
Cadillac XT5 Year to Avoid and Specifications
Below is a comparison table showing the specifications for notable Cadillac XT5 model years.
| Feature/Specification | 2018 XT5 | 2019 XT5 | 2020 XT5 | 2021 XT5 | 2022 XT5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L V6, 310 HP, 271 lb-ft torque | 3.6L V6, 310 HP, 271 lb-ft torque | 2.0L Turbo I4, 237 HP / 3.6L V6, 310 HP | 2.0L Turbo I4, 237 HP / 3.6L V6, 310 HP | 2.0L Turbo I4, 235 HP / 3.6L V6, 310 HP |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 19/27 MPG | 19/27 MPG | 21/28 MPG (2.0L Turbo), 19/26 MPG (3.6L V6) | 21/28 MPG (2.0L Turbo), 19/26 MPG (3.6L V6) | 22/29 MPG (2.0L Turbo), 19/26 MPG (3.6L V6) |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Infotainment System | 8″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | 8″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Updated CUE with enhanced interface | Updated CUE, Bose premium audio | 8″ touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bose premium audio |
| Safety Features | Rearview camera, parking sensors | Rearview camera, parking sensors | Standard Safety Package, lane-keeping assist | Standard Safety Package, pedestrian detection | Full Safety Suite standard, adaptive cruise control |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers | 5 passengers | 5 passengers | 5 passengers | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Space | 30.0 cu ft / 63.0 cu ft (with seats folded) | 30.0 cu ft / 63.0 cu ft | 30.0 cu ft / 63.0 cu ft | 30.0 cu ft / 63.0 cu ft | 30.0 cu ft / 63.0 cu ft |
| Interior Features | Leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control | Leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control | Leather seats, tri-zone climate control | Leather seats, tri-zone climate control | Leather seats, tri-zone climate control, wireless charging |
| Notable Issues | Brake wear, suspension noise | Engine and electronics | Improved reliability | High reliability | High reliability with minor recalls |
Common Issues with Cadillac XT5 Problematic Years
Transmission Problems
This has been so especially in the 2017 model year where there have been so many complaints regarding transmission hitches. Owners have complaints of jerking movements and delay which are some of the things that need repair expenses.
Electrical System Malfunctions
Issues with the electrical system have been rather worrying for several owners of models such as the 2018 XT5 for the faulty touch screen, malfunctioning lights on the dashboard as well as faulty sensors.
Braking Issues
Issues of car braking have been reported by some of the XT5 models and this was mostly after the 2017 model. Customers’ main grievances can be heard in terms of noisy brakes and an absence of a smooth shopping experience.
Interior Wear and Tear
Even though the XT5 is described as luxurious, this or that model, such as 2018, may be criticized for using materials that wear out too closely as well as affect the impression of the luxuriousness.
How to Choose the Right Cadillac XT5 Model
When searching for a reliable Cadillac XT5, consider the following tips:
- Check Reviews and Forums: On the internet, search for tendencies towards complaints or positive recommendations for some specific model years.
- Test Drive the Vehicle: You can realize that the car has issues with transmission, or braking and the problems can be visible from the road.
- Opt for Models with Reliable Ratings: Some years, such as 2020 and 2021, offer better reliability and could be a good choice if you’re seeking dependability.
It is possible to get a Cadillac XT5 with the luxury experience that Cadillac offers with the right features and with no bizarre model years.
Conclusion
Buying the right Cadillac XT5 model year improves your driving experience and gives you the chance to save some money on repairs. Eliminating problematic models based on prior years, namely, 2017, 2018, and 2019, ensures that you can have all the nice trims of the XT5 while getting a reliable vehicle. It means that with proper research you can purchase the XT5 that will stimulate your expectations towards the vehicle’s quality, performance, and luxury.
