2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 was a testament to Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a refined luxury brand. With 40 updates introduced in the 2020 model, the XT5 showcased a more sophisticated exterior with standard LED lights and a variety of wheel designs. Its interior, while not entirely luxurious, offered a more upscale experience compared to its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer. The Premium Luxury trim level, in particular, stood out with its elegant cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fibre accents, making it one of the most refined Cadillacs aside from the Escalade.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer shared its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer, yet distinguished itself with a black roof, unique hood, and grille design. The Grand Wagoneer boasted a traditional SUV styling with a tall hood and broad shoulders. Inside, it offered high-end features like 24-way power front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, and American Walnut wood trim. The interior was designed to provide a luxurious experience, with heated and ventilated seats and a spacious cabin that accommodated up to eight passengers.

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. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which was smooth when upshifting but less refined when downshifting. The XT5's fuel efficiency was commendable, with the V6 achieving 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, better than the estimated 11.2 L/100 km. The XT5 handled well on the road, with front-wheel drive standard on the Luxury grade and all-wheel drive available on higher trims.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, on the other hand, was powered by a robust 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in about six seconds. The Grand Wagoneer featured a standard Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system with multiple drive modes and a Quadra-Lift air suspension system, providing impressive off-road capabilities. However, its large size and weight made it less agile on the road, with a bouncy ride at higher speeds.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered seating for four adults comfortably, with a three-seat bench in the second row. While legroom was adequate, headroom was limited for taller passengers. The XT5 provided 850 litres of cargo space, though it was less than some competitors. The cargo-management system and hands-free power liftgate added convenience, but small-item storage was limited.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated up to eight passengers with its optional third-row bench seat. It offered more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than its rivals, though front-row space was more limited. With 775 litres of cargo space with all seats in place and 2,667 litres with all rear seats folded, the Grand Wagoneer provided ample storage. Its towing capacity of 4,472 kilograms was impressive, though slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its extra weight.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with a streamlined design and haptic feedback controls. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose sound system, and a subscription-based WiFi hotspot. The digital instrument cluster and available head-up display provided essential vehicle information, while the rear camera mirror enhanced nighttime driving visibility.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and a McIntosh audio system. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and offered a rear-seat entertainment system. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system, with its Android-based operating system, provided over-the-air updates. While the screen response was occasionally slow, the head-up display was clear and legible.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-change alert. The available Night Vision technology enhanced nighttime drivability, while the Teen Driver software allowed parents to monitor and limit vehicle features for young drivers.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included intersection collision assist and night vision. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring, with plans for a hands-free version in the future.