2025 Cadillac CT5 vs 2025 Toyota Corolla

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 continued to build on its legacy of blending style and performance, maintaining its appeal with a refreshed design that subtly updated its front fascia and headlights. The interior was dominated by a striking new 33-inch display, enhancing the luxury feel with its upscale climate control icons and retained switchgear for ease of use. Despite the presence of some inexpensive plastics, the cabin's carbon fibre trim and Sedona Sauvage leather upholstery elevated its luxury quotient. However, the CT5's trunk remained small, and the powertrain was more audible than preferred, reminding drivers of the cost savings compared to its German rivals.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Corolla maintained its reputation for simplicity and practicality, with a design that aged gracefully since its last redesign in 2020. The introduction of a larger 10.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the XSE trim added a modern touch, though it lacked traditional knobs, requiring drivers to adapt to steering wheel controls. The interior, while featuring some inexpensive plastics, offered a comfortable driving position with good visibility. The Corolla's trunk provided more cargo space than the CT5, and the rear seats offered decent leg support, though headroom was limited.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a choice between a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and an optional twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 producing 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. The V6, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a more spirited driving experience, though it came at a higher cost and reduced fuel efficiency. The CT5's ride was comfortable but not as taut as its sportier variants, with a hint of classic Cadillac float. Super Cruise technology enhanced highway driving, offering hands-free capability on approved roads.

The 2025 Toyota Corolla, equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, provided adequate performance for daily driving. Its Dynamic Shift CVT improved acceleration response, though hard acceleration resulted in noticeable engine noise. The Corolla's ride and handling were commendable, with the TNGA platform contributing to a more engaging driving experience. Fuel efficiency was a strong point, with ratings of 6.7–6.8 L/100 km combined, and even better with the hybrid variant.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a comfortable road-tripping experience, with features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. However, the rear seats had limited headroom, and the trunk space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven floor complicating luggage storage. Interior storage was adequate but lacked innovation, with a convenient wireless smartphone charger.

The 2025 Toyota Corolla provided a comfortable driving position with good visibility, though the centre armrest padding was thin. Rear passengers enjoyed decent leg support, but headroom was limited, and there were no rear air conditioning vents. The Corolla's trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, accommodating full-size suitcases with ease, and the 60/40-split folding rear seats expanded capacity further.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 featured a new 33-inch panoramic display with Google Built-in technology, offering seamless integration with Google Assistant, Google Maps, and connected services. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the premium audio system delivered an impressive sound experience. Additional tech included a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and Teen Driver technology.

The 2025 Toyota Corolla introduced a 10.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the XSE trim, though its placement could obstruct visibility for some drivers. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Safety Connect providing up to 10 years of emergency assistance. Drive Connect and Remote Connect offered additional features, though the standard six-speaker sound system was bass-heavy.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driving assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system and active blind-spot monitoring. Super Cruise technology offered hands-free driving on approved roads, enhancing safety and convenience. The CT5 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA in all crash tests, including rollover resistance.

The 2025 Toyota Corolla featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a range of driver assistance systems such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available from the LE trim. The Corolla received five-star ratings from the NHTSA in crash tests and was named a 2024 "Top Safety Pick" by the IIHS.