2023 Cadillac XT5 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic enhancements from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented appearance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier exterior elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt somewhat dated. The F Sport models featured specific badging and sporty interior touches, but comfort was compromised by less-than-ideal seating ergonomics.

The 2023 Cadillac XT5 aimed to deliver affordable luxury, though its cabin materials felt more akin to those in a Buick or top-trim Chevy. Despite this, the XT5's interior was intuitively laid out, offering good space across both rows and above-average cargo capacity. The cabin retained physical controls, providing a more intuitive feel, though it lacked the modernity and uniqueness found in some competitors. The XT5 offered good headroom and legroom, with a panoramic sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Standard synthetic leather upholstery could be upgraded to genuine leather in higher trims, and heated front seats were standard in Canada, with additional heated features available on upper trims.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid combined a V6 with electric motors for 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive suspension and additional drive modes, but changes in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections effectively. Fuel economy for the RX 350 was rated at 12.2 L/100 km city and 9.0 highway, with the hybrid offering improved efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Cadillac XT5 came with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful V6 engine option provided 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. While the XT5 handled decently, it lacked driving excitement and suffered from cabin vibrations and noise on rough roads. The XT5's performance was overshadowed by competitors like the Porsche Macan and BMW X3, which offered more power and refinement. Fuel economy for the turbo-four with FWD was rated at 10.9 L/100 km city and 8.2 highway, while the V6 with AWD achieved 13.1 city and 9.5 highway.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models shared the same wheelbase, resulting in limited space for the third row. Cargo capacity behind the second row was 453 litres, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The RX's interior featured thoughtful storage solutions, though the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the cargo area's load-in height was high.

The 2023 Cadillac XT5 provided ample storage spaces, with a deep centre console and multiple small-item storage options. The maximum cargo space was 850 litres behind the two rows, expanding to 1,784 litres with the rear seats folded. The XT5's cargo area was easily accessible, thanks to a wide liftgate opening and low load floor. These generous specs compared favourably to competitors like the Porsche Macan and Genesis GV70.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was ergonomically challenging. The system was responsive but hindered by a hypersensitive touchpad and awkward access issues. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, smartphone integration, wireless charging, and premium audio systems.

The 2023 Cadillac XT5's CUE infotainment system provided an intuitive interface with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The system could be controlled via a rotary controller, voice commands, or the touchscreen. Cadillac retained physical controls for climate and steering wheel functions, offering a user-friendly experience. The XT5 also featured a Bose premium audio system, wireless charging, and navigation.

The 2022 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional headlights but received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Cadillac XT5's last full crash test was in 2021, where it earned "Good" scores in crash tests but a "Marginal" headlight rating. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a vibrating safety alert seat. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.