2025 Cadillac CT5 vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 retained its appealing design and driving dynamics, which had been its hallmark since its introduction in 2020. Over the years, it gained power and advanced technology, although it still lacked the sophistication of some rivals. The refreshed model featured a new front fascia with vertically stacked headlights and a bold design. Inside, the CT5 boasted a 33-inch display and upscale climate control icons, while maintaining practical switchgear. The cabin, adorned with carbon fibre trim and semi-aniline leather, offered a luxurious feel, despite some cheaper plastic elements.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class continued to embody traditional luxury with its stately presence and sleek design. The seventh-generation model, introduced in 2021, featured a more aerodynamic style with a larger grille and flush door handles. The interior showcased a horizontal dashboard layout with premium materials, including leather and natural-grain walnut trim. Despite the somewhat awkward placement of digital displays, the cabin exuded quality with no detectable creaks or squeaks. The S-Class remained a benchmark for luxury sedans, offering a refined and comfortable driving experience.

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 lb-ft of torque, while the V6 produced 335 hp and 405 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive available. The V6 and AWD upgrades added significant cost, impacting fuel economy. The CT5 excelled in highway driving, with its Super Cruise hands-free system enhancing the experience. However, the Premium Luxury trim felt softer and less athletic compared to sportier variants.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class offered four models, each with distinct powertrains. The entry-level S 500 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six with 442 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the S 580 upgraded to a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with 496 hp and 516 lb-ft. The AMG S 63 E Performance combined a twin-turbo V8 with an electric motor, producing 791 hp and 1,055 lb-ft. All models had a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic AWD. The S-Class delivered a smooth ride with its air suspension, and rear axle steering enhanced manoeuvrability. It provided a luxurious driving experience, setting a high standard for performance.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered reasonable comfort for road trips, though it was louder than desired. The front seats lacked side bolsters but featured heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, though headroom was limited. Interior storage was adequate, with a wireless smartphone charger conveniently located. However, cargo space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven trunk floor making it challenging to load larger items.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class excelled in interior comfort, with wide and well-shaped front seats offering heating, ventilation, and massage functions. While storage space was moderate, the rear seats were particularly accommodating, with optional features like heating, ventilation, and massage. The Pinnacle Trim package added luxury amenities, and the executive rear seat offered a power footrest. The S-Class provided 535 litres of cargo capacity, with a centre pass-through door for longer items.

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 wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. The CT5 also included a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and Teen Driver technology, enhancing its tech offerings.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a Burmester surround-sound system. The Pinnacle Trim package added rear-seat amenities, including an infotainment tablet and entertainment system. The voice-control technology was highly accurate, though the capacitive touch controls were less user-friendly. The S-Class offered advanced tech features, though some required an internet connection.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 was equipped with a comprehensive set of driving assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system and active blind-spot monitoring. The standout feature was Super Cruise, providing hands-free driving capability on approved roads. The CT5 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA in crash tests, showcasing its safety credentials.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class featured standard advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The systems functioned flawlessly, with smooth transitions in adaptive cruise control. While crash test results were unavailable, Mercedes-Benz maintained an impeccable safety record.