2025 Cadillac CT5 vs 2025 BMW 3 Series

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 continued to build on the foundation laid by its predecessor, the CTS, which it replaced in 2020. Sharing its platform with the CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, the CT5 was visually appealing and offered a comfortable driving experience. However, it still lacked the sophistication of its competitors, and the trunk space remained limited. Over the years, the CT5 gained enhancements in power, performance, and technology. The 2025 lineup dropped the Luxury trim but retained the Premium Luxury, Sport, CT5-V, and CT5-V Blackwing variants, with prices ranging from $56,833 to $123,848. The test vehicle, a Premium Luxury trim, featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, AWD, and several option packages, bringing its MSRP to $77,988. The 2025 model introduced subtle design changes, notably the vertically stacked headlights and larger running light bars. Inside, a new 33-inch display dominated the cabin, complemented by upscale climate control icons and retained switchgear for ease of use. The interior boasted carbon fibre trim and semi-aniline leather upholstery, enhancing its luxury feel, though some inexpensive plastics were still present.

The 2025 BMW 3 Series maintained a conservative design approach, reflecting its historical significance as a key model for BMW. While other series embraced bold designs, the 3 Series remained relatively understated. For 2025, minor updates included new paint colours, wheel designs, and dashboard revisions. In Canada, the 3 Series was available as the 330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, and M3, each offering varying levels of power and performance. The test vehicle, a U.S.-spec 330i with M Sport trim, featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, sport-tuned suspension, and variable sport steering. The Vegas Red paint was new for 2025, and the car included leather upholstery and advanced packages, pricing it at $72,579. The interior exuded quality with brushed aluminum trim and metallic detailing, though some might find the interior too dark. The 3 Series offered various upholstery and trim options for customization. The test vehicle lacked the optional Shadowline upgrade, which would have added a black twin-kidney grille for a more aggressive look.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a choice between a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an optional twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6. The base engine delivered 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 produced 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with RWD as standard and AWD available as an option. The V6 and AWD upgrades added over $6,000 to the vehicle's cost. Fuel economy for the turbo-four was rated at 9.0 L/100 km combined with RWD and 9.6 with AWD, while the V6 returned 10.6 L/100 km combined with RWD and 11.2 with AWD. During testing, the V6 averaged 12.6 L/100 km. The CT5 was louder on the highway than expected, but it excelled in acceleration and passing maneuvers. The Super Cruise hands-free driving system was a standout feature. In urban settings, the twin-turbo V6 provided ample power, and parking was made easy with a high-definition surround-view camera system and semi-automated parking assist. The CT5's platform, shared with the Chevrolet Camaro, ensured a lively drive, though the Premium Luxury trim felt softer and less athletic than other variants.

The 2025 BMW 3 Series offered a range of performance options, with the 330i xDrive providing swift acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. The 330i featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The engine delivered power smoothly across a wide range of RPMs. An eight-speed automatic transmission with Sport mode and paddle shifters allowed for manual control. The M Sport Package added a sport suspension and variable sport steering. The test vehicle rode on 19-inch wheels with Bridgestone Turanza tires. While the standard brakes performed well, the M Sport brakes were not necessary for everyday driving. The ride was communicative, but the M Sport Package's suspension might be too firm for luxury buyers. The 3 Series was fuel-efficient, with an official rating of 8.0 L/100 km combined, though the test vehicle averaged 8.4 L/100 km. On a highway trip, it achieved 6.4 L/100 km. The steering was responsive and well-weighted, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 Premium Luxury offered a comfortable road-tripping experience, though it was louder than ideal. The front seats lacked side bolsters but featured heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The semi-aniline leather added a luxurious touch. Rear-seat passengers had ample legroom and thigh support, though headroom was limited. The CT5's interior storage was adequate, with four cupholders and a wireless smartphone charger. Cargo space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven trunk floor making it challenging to load full-size suitcases flat. However, the enclosed trunk hinges allowed for efficient use of space.

The 2025 BMW 3 Series provided a snug fit for four adults, with power-adjustable heated sport seats available in SensaTec or leather. The seats included manually adjustable thigh supports, but finding the right seating position was challenging. Ventilated front seats were not offered. The rear seat provided good support, though the bolsters made exiting less graceful. Interior storage was ample, with covered compartments for privacy. The trunk measured 478 litres, accommodating full-size suitcases on their sides. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seat allowed for versatile cargo and passenger arrangements.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 featured a new 33-inch panoramic display with three screens, including a trip computer panel, digital instrumentation, and a wide infotainment touchscreen with Google Built-in technology. The system offered Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to apps via Google Play, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and connected services. The user interface was intuitive, and the 15-speaker premium audio system impressed. The CT5 also offered a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and Teen Driver technology for monitoring young drivers.

The 2025 BMW 3 Series received an upgraded infotainment system with BMW Operating System 8.5, featuring a new Home page and QuickSelect access. The system could be operated via a 14.9-inch touchscreen, iDrive controls, or the BMW Intelligent Assistant. The voice recognition system performed well, though it occasionally provided unexpected results. The test vehicle included a Harman Kardon surround-sound system, which delivered impressive audio quality. The 3 Series offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless smartphone charger. The Premium Package added parking assists, including sensors and camera angles for easy maneuvering.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 came equipped with a comprehensive set of driving assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system and active blind-spot monitoring with steering intervention. Semi-automated parking assist was optional on Premium Luxury and standard on Sport. The highlight was Super Cruise, offering hands-free driving on approved roads. The CT5 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA in all crash tests, including rollover resistance.

The 2025 BMW 3 Series featured a range of safety systems, though determining standard features was challenging due to package groupings. The Active Protection System prepared the car for collisions, while Active Guard included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Driving Assistant package added pedestrian detection and lane departure warning. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package offered adaptive cruise control, and the Driving Assistance Professional Package included evasive steering assist. The 3 Series earned top five-star ratings from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though it hadn't undergone the latest tests for a Top Safety Pick award.