Cadillac Xt5 vs Lexus Rx 350: Which Luxury Suv Reigns?
Choosing a luxury SUV can be a tough decision, especially when comparing two titans of the industry. The 2024 Cadillac XT5 and the Lexus RX 350 offer sophisticated styling, premium interiors, and a host of advanced features, but which one truly stands out?
This in-depth comparison dives into the heart of the matter, exploring the nuances of each vehicle. We’ll examine everything from performance and handling to interior comfort and technology, ensuring you have all the information needed to make the best choice for your needs.
Get ready to discover the strengths and weaknesses of both the Cadillac XT5 and the Lexus RX 350. We’ll explore their distinct personalities and help you determine which SUV aligns perfectly with your driving preferences and lifestyle. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | cadillac xt5 | lexus rx 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo I4 / 3.6L V6 | 2.4L Turbo I4 / 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 235-310 hp | 275-302 hp |
| Torque | 258-271 lb-ft | 317-267 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | FWD / AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 22/29 mpg | 22/29 mpg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats) | 30 cubic feet | 29.6 cubic feet |
| Infotainment Screen | 8-inch touchscreen | 9.8-inch touchscreen |
| Standard Safety Features | Forward collision alert, lane keep assist | Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 |
| Warranty (Basic) | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Warranty (Powertrain) | 6 years/70,000 miles | 6 years/70,000 miles |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine and Performance
- Cadillac Xt5: Offers a standard 2.0L Turbocharged inline-4 engine producing around 235 horsepower, or an optional 3.6L V6 with about 310 horsepower. Provides a good balance of power and fuel economy, but the V6 can feel less refined compared to some competitors.
- Lexus Rx 350: Equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine generating approximately 295 horsepower. Delivers smooth and responsive acceleration, known for its quiet operation and refined driving experience.
- Winner: RX 350
Interior Comfort and Quality
- Cadillac Xt5: Features a stylish interior with available leather upholstery and wood trim. Offers comfortable seating and a user-friendly infotainment system, but some materials may feel less premium compared to the Lexus.
- Lexus Rx 350: Boasts a luxurious interior with high-quality materials, including premium leather and soft-touch surfaces. Provides a comfortable and refined cabin experience, known for its attention to detail and craftsmanship.
- Winner: RX 350
Infotainment and Technology
- Cadillac Xt5: Comes with a user-friendly infotainment system, typically an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Offers available features like a premium sound system and a digital instrument cluster.
- Lexus Rx 350: Features a touchscreen infotainment system, often with a touchpad controller, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Includes advanced technology features such as a head-up display and a Mark Levinson premium audio system.
- Winner: RX 350
Fuel Economy
- Cadillac Xt5: The 2.0L Turbocharged engine offers decent fuel economy. The V6 engine will provide a slightly lower fuel economy.
- Lexus Rx 350: V6 engine offers decent fuel economy for its class, but not as efficient as some competitors.
- Winner: Cadillac XT5
Exterior Styling
- Cadillac Xt5: Presents a modern and angular design with Cadillac’s signature styling cues. Offers a bold and distinctive appearance, but the design might not appeal to everyone.
- Lexus Rx 350: Showcases a sleek and sophisticated design with Lexus’s signature spindle grille. Features a refined and elegant exterior, but the styling can be somewhat polarizing.
- Winner: Tie
Safety Features
- Cadillac Xt5: Offers a range of standard and available safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Receives good safety ratings from major organizations.
- Lexus Rx 350: Comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which includes advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and pre-collision system. Known for its comprehensive safety package.
- Winner: RX 350
Cargo Space
- Cadillac Xt5: Provides a competitive cargo capacity with a good amount of space for luggage and groceries. Offers a practical and versatile cargo area.
- Lexus Rx 350: Offers a respectable cargo capacity, but it may be slightly less than the XT5. The space is still functional for everyday use.
- Winner: Cadillac XT5
Resale Value
- Cadillac Xt5: Generally holds its value well, but may not retain its value as strongly as the Lexus.
- Lexus Rx 350: Known for its excellent resale value, maintaining its worth over time due to its reputation for reliability and quality.
- Winner: RX 350
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Driving Dynamics | cadillac xt5 |
| Luxury and Refinement | lexus rx 350 |
| Reliability | lexus rx 350 |
| Styling | Tie |
| Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Seating Capacity: Both the Cadillac XT5 and Lexus RX 350 comfortably seat five passengers, making them suitable for families or small groups.
- Drivetrain Options: Both SUVs offer both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, allowing buyers to choose based on their driving needs and climate.
- Similar Warranty: Both vehicles come with a basic warranty that covers the same period, providing peace of mind to owners.
- Infotainment Systems: Both cars offer modern infotainment systems, including touchscreen displays and smartphone integration.
- Safety Features: Both vehicles prioritize safety, offering a suite of standard safety features designed to assist the driver and prevent accidents.
Cadillac XT5 vs Lexus RX 350 Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Cadillac XT5 offers a spirited driving experience with its responsive engine and athletic handling. Its available V6 engine provides ample power for merging and overtaking, while the chassis feels composed on winding roads. The Lexus RX 350 prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride. Its engine delivers adequate power, but the focus is on a relaxed driving experience. The RX 350 excels at absorbing bumps and isolating the cabin from road noise, making it ideal for long journeys. Both offer all-wheel drive options for enhanced traction in various conditions.
Interior Comfort and Features
The XT5 boasts a modern and tech-forward interior design. It offers comfortable seating for five passengers, and its infotainment system is user-friendly. The XT5 comes standard with a generous array of features, including a panoramic sunroof and advanced safety technologies. The RX 350 features a luxurious and well-crafted interior, with high-quality materials and a refined aesthetic. Passengers will enjoy a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom. The RX 350 offers a comprehensive suite of features, including a premium sound system and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
The Cadillac XT5 generally offers competitive fuel economy for its class, with respectable mileage figures in both city and highway driving. Running costs, including maintenance and repairs, are typically in line with other luxury SUVs. The Lexus RX 350 is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, particularly in its hybrid variant. Its reputation for reliability often translates to lower maintenance costs over the long term. Both vehicles require premium gasoline for optimal performance, which contributes to their overall running expenses.
Exterior Styling and Design
The XT5 showcases a bold and contemporary exterior design, with sharp lines and a distinctive Cadillac grille. It projects a sporty and assertive presence on the road. The RX 350 features a more refined and elegant design, with a signature Lexus spindle grille and flowing body lines. It exudes a sense of sophistication and understated luxury. Both vehicles are available in a variety of colors and trim levels, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles to their preferences. Consider your personal style preferences when comparing.
Technology and Infotainment
The XT5 comes equipped with a modern infotainment system, including a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available navigation. It also offers advanced driver-assistance features such as lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. The RX 350 boasts a user-friendly infotainment system, often featuring a large touchscreen display and intuitive controls. It offers a suite of advanced technologies, including a head-up display and a comprehensive safety package. Both vehicles offer a connected driving experience with Wi-Fi hotspots and over-the-air software updates.
Reliability and Resale Value
The Lexus RX 350 is renowned for its exceptional reliability, consistently earning top marks in consumer surveys and industry ratings. Its strong reputation translates to excellent resale value, making it a smart long-term investment. The Cadillac XT5 offers respectable reliability, but may not match the Lexus’s stellar track record. Its resale value is generally good, but often trails the RX 350. Consider these factors when evaluating the total cost of ownership over the lifespan of the vehicle.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy cadillac xt5 If…
- You prefer a more athletic driving experience with responsive handling.
- You value a stylish and distinctive exterior design.
- You desire a slightly more spacious cargo area.
- You appreciate the availability of a powerful V6 engine option.
Buy lexus rx 350 If…
- You prioritize a reputation for reliability and build quality.
- You prefer a more comfortable and refined ride.
- You value a luxurious interior with premium materials.
- You want a vehicle with a strong resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in engine performance?
The Cadillac XT5 offers a slightly more spirited driving experience with its available V6 engine providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging feel. The Lexus RX 350 prioritizes smooth power delivery and fuel efficiency, with its engine providing adequate power for daily driving. Consider your preference for responsiveness versus fuel economy when deciding.
Which SUV offers a more luxurious interior?
The Lexus RX 350 is generally considered to have a more luxurious interior, with higher-quality materials and a more refined aesthetic. The Cadillac XT5 also offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, but the RX 350 often surpasses it in terms of perceived luxury and craftsmanship. Both offer a variety of interior trim options.
How do the fuel efficiency figures compare?
The Lexus RX 350 typically boasts better fuel economy, especially in its hybrid variant, making it a more economical choice for those seeking to minimize fuel costs. The Cadillac XT5 provides competitive fuel efficiency for its class, but generally doesn’t match the RX 350’s figures. Consider your driving habits and commute when comparing fuel economy.
Which SUV has a better infotainment system?
Both SUVs feature user-friendly infotainment systems, but personal preference plays a significant role. The Cadillac XT5 offers a modern and responsive touchscreen interface, while the Lexus RX 350 often includes a larger screen and a more intuitive layout. Test drive both to determine which interface you find easier to use.
What about safety features and driver-assistance technologies?
Both the Cadillac XT5 and Lexus RX 350 offer a comprehensive suite of safety features and driver-assistance technologies, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The specific features and their availability may vary depending on the trim level and options selected.
Which SUV is more reliable and has better resale value?
The Lexus RX 350 is widely recognized for its exceptional reliability and superior resale value. While the Cadillac XT5 is a reliable SUV, it typically doesn’t match the Lexus’s reputation in these areas. This impacts long term ownership costs. Consider these long-term factors when making your decision.
What are the warranty options for each vehicle?
Both Cadillac and Lexus offer competitive warranty packages. Generally, Lexus provides a slightly longer basic warranty period. Review the specific terms and conditions of each manufacturer’s warranty to understand the coverage details and any limitations. Check for any extended warranty options available for added peace of mind.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Cadillac XT5 and the Lexus RX 350 depends on individual priorities. The XT5 offers a more engaging driving experience and a modern design. However, the RX 350 excels in luxury, reliability, and resale value, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a refined and dependable SUV.
Winner: Lexus RX 350