Cadillac CT5 vs Honda Civic Hybrid

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 retained its appealing design and comfortable interior, characteristics that had been present since its introduction in 2020. Over the years, it gained power and advanced technology, although it still lacked the sophistication of some rivals and had a small trunk. The refreshed 2025 model featured a new front fascia with 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 luxurious semi-aniline leather upholstery, though some inexpensive plastics were still present.

In contrast, the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid received a mild styling refresh, enhancing its sleek and sporty appearance. The Civic hatchback hybrid version emphasized sportiness with a sleeker profile and distinctive taillights. Inside, the Civic maintained its reputation for having one of the nicest interiors in its class, with hidden air vents and a prominent infotainment touchscreen. The materials used were of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and a unique herringbone texture on the centre console. The rear seats offered ample space, though they lacked air vents and charge ports, making them feel more basic compared to some competitors.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. However, the optional twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, provided a more exhilarating driving experience. The V6, combined with all-wheel drive, added over $6,000 to the vehicle's cost and impacted fuel economy, averaging 12.6 L/100 km during testing. Despite being louder on the highway, the CT5 was effortless to drive, with features like Super Cruise and a high-definition surround-view camera system enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid introduced a new hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total output of 200 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. This setup replaced the previous 1.5-litre turbo engine, offering improved fuel efficiency. The hybrid system provided responsive power delivery, with initial acceleration often all-electric. The transition between electric and gasoline power was seamless, and the CVT remained smooth and quiet. The Civic Hybrid's suspension favoured comfort, yet it handled confidently in turns. Active noise cancellation contributed to a quieter ride, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered reasonable comfort for road trips, though it was louder than ideal, and the front seats lacked side bolsters. Rear-seat passengers had good legroom but limited headroom, and the back seat was not suitable for a fifth passenger. Interior storage was adequate, with a wireless smartphone charger conveniently located. However, cargo space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven trunk floor complicating the loading of larger items.

In contrast, the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid provided ample front-seat space and adjustments for larger drivers, with good visibility aided by narrow roof pillars. The rear seats comfortably accommodated average-sized adults, offering ample headroom and legroom. However, the absence of air vents and USB charge ports was a notable oversight. The Civic's trunk offered 419 litres of cargo space, with a low liftover height and remote rear seatback releases for added convenience.

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. This system offered Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to apps via Google Play, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CT5 also included a 15-speaker premium audio system and optional features like a head-up display and digital rearview mirror.

The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid's base LX trim included a seven-inch touchscreen and an eight-speaker audio system, while the top Sport Touring Hybrid trim offered a nine-inch touchscreen, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and wireless smartphone integration. The new Google Built-in operating system, available on the top trim, enhanced voice commands and integrated online features. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick responses and sharp graphics, and the wireless phone charger securely held larger phones.

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. The standout feature 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 Honda Civic Hybrid earned five stars from the NHTSA in overall, side, and rollover protection, and four stars for frontal collisions. It was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The top Touring trim added parking proximity sensors and rain-sensing wipers.