2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 Acura RDX

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 represented a significant effort by Cadillac to reclaim its status as a refined luxury brand. With updates from the previous year, the XT5 showcased a more sophisticated design, featuring a snub-nosed exterior and distinct trim level differentiation. The SUV's standard LED lights and 20-inch wheels contributed to its stylish and robust appearance. Inside, the XT5 offered a more upscale interior than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, with cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents. However, it fell short of delivering the full luxury experience, with some materials and design elements not meeting the highest standards.

In contrast, the 2021 Acura RDX, especially with the A-Spec Package, was a visually appealing SUV that balanced sportiness with practicality. The RDX avoided excessive off-road styling cues, focusing instead on a sleek and sporty design. The A-Spec trim added subtle yet effective styling changes, enhancing its athletic appeal without compromising daily driving comfort. Inside, the RDX A-Spec featured sport seats with simulated suede inserts, a sport steering wheel, and red ambient lighting, creating a sporty atmosphere. However, the gauge cluster's red markings on a brushed silver background were difficult to read, detracting from the overall user experience.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between two engines: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 237 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which was smooth when upshifting but less refined when downshifting. The XT5's throttle response was immediate with the V6, but it could have benefited from more low-end torque. Fuel economy varied, with the AWD V6 achieving about 25 mpg during testing, surpassing the EPA estimate of 21 mpg combined. The XT5 handled well on the road, providing a comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Acura RDX came equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, and the SH-AWD system was available for improved handling. The RDX's Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose between different driving modes, enhancing the driving experience. The A-Spec trim featured exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and performance tires, contributing to its sporty handling. While the RDX was fun to drive, it lacked adaptive dampers in the A-Spec trim, which could have improved ride quality on uneven roads.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults comfortably, though the rear seat's headroom was limited for taller passengers. The front seats, while visually appealing, were not as comfortable on long trips. The XT5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors, but its deep rear cargo area was practical. However, wheel bump-outs reduced the width of the cargo area. The SUV's cargo-management system and hands-free liftgate added convenience, but small-item storage was limited, with no ideal spot for a smartphone.

The 2021 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, offered impressive passenger and cargo space. The front seats were comfortable and supportive, with 12-way power adjustment and heating and ventilation in the A-Spec trim. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a low and flat cushion, leading to a lack of leg support. The RDX's cargo area measured 29.5 cubic feet, with additional storage compartments for organization. Folding the rear seats expanded the cargo space to 58.9 cubic feet, providing ample room for most needs. The RDX's packaging made it a practical choice for those seeking utility.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and a rotary controller for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose sound system. A head-up display and a rear camera mirror were available, enhancing the driving experience. The XT5's climate control system used hidden-button functionality, and a heated steering wheel and rear seats were optional. While the infotainment system was functional, the smartphone recharging pocket required the phone to be out of sight, which could be inconvenient.

The 2021 Acura RDX introduced the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which used a touch-sensing pad on the center console. While an improvement over similar systems, it still required a learning curve and could be distracting. The RDX offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D audio system in the A-Spec trim. The system's design aimed to reduce driver distraction, but the touchpad's operation could be challenging for passengers unfamiliar with it. Despite this, the RDX's technology package was comprehensive and included features like Key by Amazon In-Car Delivery.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 came with a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-change alert with side blind-zone alert. However, not all features were available on all trim levels. The XT5 also offered Night Vision technology, enhancing nighttime visibility, and General Motors' Teen Driver software for monitoring young drivers. While the XT5's safety technology was effective, it lacked some of the advanced features found in its German rivals.

The 2021 Acura RDX was equipped with AcuraWatch, a suite of safety features that included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert were only available with the Technology Package. The RDX earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it received four-star ratings for frontal-impact and rollover resistance. The RDX's safety systems were refined and user-friendly, making them more likely to be used by drivers.