2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 marked a significant step in Cadillac's efforts to reclaim its status as a leader in luxury vehicles. With 40 updates introduced in the 2020 model, the XT5 showcased a refined exterior with a more distinct snub-nosed design and differentiated trim levels. 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 and space, the XT5's interior design was more upscale than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, offering a more elegant experience, especially in the Premium Luxury trim.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its long-standing second generation without a major redesign, maintaining a mature and classic exterior design. The Sequoia's modest grille and elegant wheel arches contributed to its timeless appeal, while its substantial size and ground clearance made it a commanding presence on the road. Inside, the Sequoia's age showed, with a dated dashboard and smaller infotainment screen compared to modern competitors. However, the interior was built to last, with high-quality materials and a focus on durability, making it a reliable choice for families seeking a spacious three-row SUV.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between two engines: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.6-litre V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which provided smooth upshifts but could be clunky during downshifts. The XT5's fuel efficiency was commendable, with the V6 achieving 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, outperforming its estimated consumption. The XT5's handling was agile, and its all-wheel-drive system offered confidence in various driving conditions.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, on the other hand, was powered by a robust 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, generating 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Sequoia's truck-based construction provided impressive towing and payload capacities, but its fuel consumption was notably higher, with ratings of 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 16.4 combined. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities enhanced by its four-wheel independent suspension and optional Fox shocks in the TRD Pro model.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults across two rows, with limited headroom in the back seat. The front seats, while visually appealing, lacked comfort on long journeys. The XT5 offered 850 litres of cargo space, though wheel bump-outs reduced the width of the area. The SUV featured a cargo-management system and a hands-free programmable height power liftgate. However, small-item storage was limited, with inadequate space for smartphones and small map pockets.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia excelled in passenger comfort and space, offering ample headroom and legroom across all three rows. The SUV featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard. The Sequoia's cargo compartment was versatile, with 535 litres of space behind the third row, expandable to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a massive 3,401 litres with both rear rows down. The interior offered generous storage options, including a spacious centre console and door pockets.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen housed in Piano Black plastic. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rotary controller, and a subscription-based 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The XT5 also offered a rear camera mirror, a digital instrument cluster, and an available head-up display. The technology package was comprehensive, though the smartphone recharging pocket required the phone to be out of sight.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was less advanced, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system felt outdated compared to competitors. The Sequoia Platinum and TRD Pro models added navigation and a 14-speaker JBL audio system. Despite its dated infotainment, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and lane-change alert with side blind-zone alert. The SUV also featured Cadillac's Night Vision technology, enhancing nighttime drivability, and GM's Teen Driver software for monitoring young drivers. However, not all safety technologies were standard across trim levels.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia came equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Sequoia also featured the STAR safety system, with stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Sequoia's robust construction and safety features provided peace of mind for drivers.