The 2018 Cadillac XT5 ranked #19 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Cadillac XT5 has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros High-class cabin styling and materials Composed highway cruiser Extensive list of advanced safety features available
Cons No meaty engines available Dull handling
Cadillac has changed next to nothing for 2018, introducing only a new optional exterior color: Harbor Blue Metallic (all of the XT5’s available paint colors, save for Radiant Silver Metallic, cost an additional $625 to $1225). The EPA has reduced highway fuel-efficiency ratings for both front- and all-wheel-drive variants, but there have been no actual mechanical updates. On the warranty front, last year’s four-year or 50,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan has been reduced to three years or 36,000 miles of coverage.
Pros Quiet interior, distinctive exterior styling, spacious cargo bay.
Cons Somewhat gruff V-6 powertrain, muddled driving dynamics, busy interior design.
The 2018 Cadillac XT5 is a solid luxury crossover, but so are its rivals. Shop carefully.
Pros Luxurious ride Strong V-6 engine Quality feel inside and out Good value at low end
Cons Gets expensive fast Forgettable personality Front-wheel-drive dynamics occasionally show through Some frustrating controls
The 2017 Toyota Highlander ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. With an unmatched list of standard advanced driver assistance features, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is one of the best values in the midsize SUV class. Its interior is high-end and comfortable, and there’s plenty of cargo space.
Pros Lots of standard active safety features Above-average fuel economy Comfortable and quiet on the highway
Cons Dull performance and handling Cramped third-row seat
The Toyota Highlander gets a stronger, more responsive powertrain for 2017, but the main strengths are the ride quality, the cabin refinement, and the space for eight. A somewhat more aggressive look, more power, an improved set of safety features, and a new sportier SE model highlight the changes Toyota is ushering in for its spacious crossover utility vehicle, the 2017 Highlander. The SE joins LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum models. The Highlander Hybrid is now also available in LE and XLE trims, in addition to the carry-over Limited and Limited Platinum.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Flexible second row Easy third-row access Good connectivity Cabin quality
Cons Design is soemwhat bland Base engine is under powered Somewhat busy dash design Hybrid only delivers if you drive gingerly
For 2017, the Highlander receives a number of significant midcycle changes. The styling has been updated, highlighted by a larger, more pronounced grille and redesigned LED taillights. The V6 engine is new, boasting more power and better fuel economy along with an eight-speed transmission and an automatic stop-start system. New feature content includes the Toyota Safety Sense technology suite, which comes standard on every trim level. There's also a new SE trim level that features uniquely sporty styling elements and a retuned suspension for sharper handling.
Pros Just-right exterior and interior size for many families Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with improved fuel economy Quiet and compliant ride
Cons Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Undesirable base four-cylinder engine
