2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Acura RDX

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 marked a significant step in Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a leader in luxury vehicles. With updates carried over from the 2020 model, the XT5 showcased a refined exterior with a snub-nosed design and distinct trim level features. The SUV's LED lights and alloy wheels added to its sophisticated appearance, while the interior boasted upscale materials like cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fibre accents. Despite some shortcomings in comfort, particularly in the front seats, the XT5's interior design was more elegant than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX offered subtle styling changes inspired by the larger MDX model, with updates to the grille, bumpers, and wheel designs. The RDX's interior emphasized a sporty driving position and featured a panoramic sunroof, though its control layout required some acclimation. The A-Spec trims added leather seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel, enhancing the sporty feel. While the back seat lacked comfort, the RDX provided a generous cargo area and a power liftgate, making it a practical choice for those seeking style and functionality.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 310 horsepower. The V6, standard on the Sport trim, provided smooth upshifts but clunkier downshifts, especially in Sport mode. The XT5's throttle response was immediate, though it could benefit from more low-end torque. Fuel consumption for the V6 was better than expected, averaging 9.4 L/100 km during testing, outperforming its estimated 11.2 L/100 km. The XT5 handled well, with AWD available on higher trims and a twin-clutch AWD system standard on the Sport trim.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder VTEC engine with 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and SH-AWD system provided a dynamic driving experience, with torque-vectoring enhancing cornering performance. The RDX's fuel consumption averaged 11.4 L/100 km, slightly above its rating of 10.3 L/100 km. The revised Integrated Dynamics System and adaptive-damping suspension improved ride comfort and responsiveness. Despite its engaging driving dynamics, the RDX fell short of earning Acura's Type S performance badge, leaving driving enthusiasts to consider German alternatives.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 accommodated four adults comfortably, though the back seat offered limited headroom. Its cargo space of 850 litres was practical, though wheel bump-outs reduced width. The XT5's cargo-management system and hands-free power liftgate added convenience, but small-item storage was limited, with no ideal spot for a smartphone.

The 2022 Acura RDX provided ample room for four adults and their luggage, with a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. The interior featured a sporty design, though the control layout required adjustment. The RDX's cargo area offered 835 litres of space, with hidden storage compartments beneath the load floor. The back seat, while flat and lacking support, folded down to create a flat cargo floor, maximizing utility.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and a rotary controller. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose sound system, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The rear camera mirror and head-up display added convenience, though the smartphone recharging pocket required the phone to be out of sight.

The 2022 Acura RDX introduced the TTI infotainment system with a 10.2-inch display and touchpad controller. While complex, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-in, and a wireless charging pad. The RDX's premium sound systems ranged from a nine-speaker setup to a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D system. A 10.5-inch head-up display was available on higher trims.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 included safety features like front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Night Vision technology enhanced nighttime drivability, while Teen Driver software allowed parents to monitor driving habits.

The 2022 Acura RDX received structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. New features included a rear seatbelt reminder and enhanced AcuraWatch systems, though adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were less refined than some rivals. The RDX earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.