BMW X3 vs Cadillac XT5
1. Overview
The X3 comes equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine, which is capable of delivering an impressive 286 bhp and a massive 580 Nm of torque, making it very powerful. The 2.0-liter diesel variant pumps 184 bhp and 380 Nm of torque. The 3.0-liter engine does 0-100 in 5.9 seconds, and the 2.0-liter engine does the same in 8.1 seconds, with a top speed of 213 km/h and 210 km/h, respectively. It has an 8-speed Steptronix transmission, making it smooth and efficient. The fuel efficiency is 18.56 km/l for the 3.0-liter variant and 18.56 km/l for the 2.0-liter variant. The XT5 offers only a 3.6-liter petrol engine with 271 bhp and 366 Nm of torque. It has an 8-speed automatic transmission, better than its predecessor's 6-speed transmission. It does 0-100 in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 210 km/h. It's available in both FWD and AWD. In terms of engine capacity, performance, and pickup, the BMW X3 is way ahead of the XT5. However, the lower variant of the X3 with a 2.0-liter engine has a closer comparison in terms of engine capacity and performance.
Firstly, let us draw our attention to its individual identity that makes a perfect SUV. The BMW X3 is a wonderful car to drive, especially on long distances. The features are top class, with quality oozing out from every part. It is high on safety and boasts reliability. On the other hand, Cadillac is a brand new entrant into the SUV market. Although it has SUVs in its portfolio, the brand new XT5 comes as a successor to the SRX, which was appreciated very much. There may be some similarities, but the upgraded features of the XT5 are set to give tough competition to BMW.
1.1. Introduction
Often as consumers, we are drawn towards the decision-making process of purchasing a new car. Whether it is brand new off the lot or a tested and true used vehicle, thorough research is inevitable. As times change, the SUV has evolved into the more popular choice for consumers, as opposed to the minivan or station wagon. There is an array of SUVs to choose from: luxuries vs. non-luxury, compact vs. full size; the list goes on. This time we compare two SUVs that in size are quite similar: the BMW X3 vs. Cadillac XT5. Both vehicles here are 2018 models, each brand's midsize SUV. Midsize is the new full size in today's US auto market. When compared to models such as the Chevy Suburban or Ford Expedition, these are still relatively the same in footprint to their older "full-size" brothers. Step into our garage as we compare these two amazing vehicles.
1.2. Key Features
Bmw X3 is almost similar to its predecessor or younger sibling Bmw X1 when it comes to its looks. The car is sophisticated and stylish, in one word its "classy". The front side of the car looks a complete knock-out, with an appreciable kidney grille with 2 bars, front fog lamps and headlights which are till the date, the best seen on a car. The side profile is sober yet impressive with flared wheel arches and the rear private window setting, the rear side also features the rear fog lamps. The car sits on 17 inch light alloy wheels (an upgrade to 18 and 19 inch is also available). The car has a ground clearance of 8 inches. The Cadillac XT5 shape is far off from the Bmw X3 and more SUV like, making it a matter of personal choice between which vehicle's styling is preferred. That being said the Cadillac XT5 comes with longer wheel base, which combined with increase in track width, aims to provide extra room inside the SUV while increasing its stability. The car has a ground clearance of 7.8 inches, slightly less than that of the Bmw X3.
1.3. Performance Comparison
The engine specifications for the BMW X3 and the Cadillac XT5 are quite comparable. The X3 comes with a 2.0-liter engine, as does the XT5; the difference lies in the cylinders, as the X3 has a 4-cylinder engine and the XT5 has an inline-4. The X3's engine provides 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque; the XT5 has 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both cars have an optional 3.6-liter V6 engine available. The XT5’s 3.6L engine provides 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The X3’s 3.0-liter engine has 355 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. In terms of 0-60 times, the X3 blows the XT5 out of the water. The XT5 with the 3.6L engine takes 6.9 seconds, which is considered below average for a luxury compact SUV. The X3, with the 2.0-liter engine, takes 6 seconds; with the 3.0-liter engine, it takes only 5.3 seconds. Both of these are considered quite above average. The XT5's poor acceleration doesn’t come without benefit, however; it provides much better fuel efficiency than the X3, with an 18/25 mpg in the city/highway compared to the X3’s 20/27 with the 2.0-liter engine, or 19/26 with the 3.0-liter engine. The XT5 also provides an optional all-wheel drive system with a selectable torque feature between FWD and AWD, providing the best of both worlds between fuel efficiency and traction. The X3 comes standard with all-wheel drive and hill descent control for steep driveways or dirt roads but provides no similar feature for the best in traction control. Both cars also use an 8-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and auto-manual modes.
2. Interior and Comfort
That said, the BMW is more on the fun side, with a much sportier interior and user-friendly dashboard. This is where it highlights the BMW as the fun-to-drive always car. Although with a different approach, both have made a great success in creating a memorable driving and relaxation experience for their users.
Overall, we can see that the X3 and XT5 have their own special charm and elegance to bring people comfort to a better journey of life. Elegance and style appear out of the Cadillac XT5, eyeing a luxurious way of living. This aura is reflected in the choice of materials and how they have put quality workmanship into it.
In conclusion, these crossovers are neither purely family vehicles nor luxury cars but rather a perfect blend of both. Each has their unique and innovative ways to create a better world for the SUV market, which is a great thing to see. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and hence such a comparison will help to find out which vehicle suits us best.
On the other side, the XT5 has 635 liters of cargo volume behind the rear with the seats up, and 1043 liters of space with the rear seat folded. This crossover has an electric button release in which by pressing it, the rear seat will fold down by gravity. Built for practicality, the XT5 comes with an adjustable rear cargo fence that can be used to keep the luggage secured in place, or create an additional few feet of flat space on top of the rear seats. This kind of practical innovation will be recognized for those who regularly do long trips which require undisturbed rest.
2.4. Cargo Capacity BMW X3's cargo area is reasonably quite large with 550 liters of luggage space (1600 liters with the seats folded). This is quite more than enough to put loads of stuff in it. Additionally, the up level of battery placement could allow extra storage space under the hood.
If elegance and comfort are the criteria for vehicle choice, then this is the category worth comparing to. Both luxury and crossover vehicles, BMW and Cadillac had come to this generation X3 and XT5 offering their customer a new perception to luxury on wheels.
2.1. Cabin Space
In the premium segment, the Cadillac XT5 provides a roomy cabin that is about 9 cubic feet more than the X3. BMW X3 interior tries to provide a vivid rich value with cloth-upholstered and chestnut wood accent. BMW X3 provides 18.5 cubic ft cargo space while the XT5 cargo space is 30 cubic ft. This difference can be taken into consideration for the room capacity of those two vehicles. XT5 can provide a better comfortability in room wise while the X3 tries to focus on customers that prefer standard city room. When we start the comparison of these two vehicles room, we can compare it with the size of BMW X5 with lower roof line and redesigned tailgate. BMW X3 only provides 40/36.4 inches of headroom while XT5 provides 40/39.5 inches. Step into the leg room another checkered flag shown to the competition; X3 only provides 40.7/36.8 inches of leg room for front and rear passenger while the XT5 promises 104.5 cm of "stretch out" room with 104.2 cm of rear legroom. Difference of room between these two vehicles is quite convincing that the XT5 provides a rather big sculpture of its interior design.
2.2. Infotainment System
The XT5 is pretty well-equipped in this area and comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and four USB ports. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is also available as an option. The traditionalists may not like the touchscreen, but the familiar CUE system is one of its better applications – with quick responses and a logical menu structure. Though we're often wary of a particular brand of unnecessary electronic gearshift, the new "Electronic Precision Shift" design enabled Cadillac to free up space for the integration of a large storage area underneath the center console. BMW's new iDrive setup now has the previous touchpad controller and surrounding buttons integrated into the iDrive knob. It takes a little bit of familiarization, but it's no less effective than the old setup and offers quick access to frequently used menu items. Its touchscreen is now a true touchscreen, meaning that users can input addresses into the navigation system the old-fashioned way by tracing out individual letters. For the time being, navigation comes standard on 6-cylinder X3s and is optional on 4-cylinder models. iDrive is available with Apple CarPlay, but BMW has confirmed that it's going to start offering the more popular smartphone integration system as a subscription-based service, with pricing yet to be announced. The X3 is now available with up to three 12-volt power sockets, two extra USB outlets, a 3G modem, and WiFi hotspot. Unlike Cadillac, BMW opted to keep the traditional gear shifter rather than a more space-efficient electronic design.
2.3. Seating Comfort
Comfort comparing, considering the BMW X3 to the Cadillac XT5. Petition of 2018-2018 models, compared to the most similar trim, Leather, and the features are most updated according to the research in November 2017. And we try to ignore the price or the engine power, but obviously the price is for more features. Material, BMW X3 uses original and smooth leather and harder, but there’s a quality option material for leather "Galleria" in the US, it would be better than regular leather according to the user. Cadillac XT5 uses semi-aniline leather for the seat with plusher padding and springier than BMW X3. It’s more comfortable, but some said the leather is too soft. It will be compared by the features. Petition found that X3 seats are quite rigid, but not durable leather, and found the electronic thigh support, this is a very desirable feature. Usually the X3 seats specifications come with power-adjustable with the driver’s seat memory and lumbar support. And Cadillac XT5 uses power-adjustable with a few positioning like 8-ways driver and 6-ways passenger, and common for all midsize luxury SUVs, it’s a lumbar support. The features that make a difference are the memory system, Cadillac didn’t separate the driver and the seat memory, BMW has a different memory setting between driver 1 and driver 2, which is more useful for different tall people who drive the car. And the most desirable features are electronic thigh support for the driver and eight different massage settings. This setting is where you can feel comfort while long driving. Both cars have quality adjustability, but with an attempt to further test the seating comfort, Cadillac is slightly superior, perfect for you who have a long journey with the car.
2.4. Cargo Capacity
To conclude, both of these luxury crossover SUVs are pretty spacious and practical in terms of cargo capacity. BMW X3 is doing surprisingly well compared to its competitors because it has been successful in delivering the ultimate driving experience while also being able to carry a large amount of stuff. However, the Cadillac XT5 is also able to deliver a large cargo space while ensuring the comfort of the passengers. Cadillac has always been successful in producing a comfortable car and the XT5 is no exception. The rear seats are also adjustable and can be moved to provide extended cargo space or more legroom for the passengers. This is also a plus point for the Cadillac XT5. Both of these cars can fulfill the needs of a modern-day family who needs to go on a trip and carry a few amounts of stuff. It is also very practical for daily use whether traveling from home to the office, going grocery shopping, and carrying sports equipment for the kids.
3. Technology and Safety
In terms of safety and convenience for accessing the car, both the X3 and XT5 use the smart key system with keyless push-button start. Lastly, safety features are usually completed with the availability of a rearview camera. Unfortunately, it is offered as an optional feature in the X3. Meanwhile, the XT5 has a standard rearview camera and offers an optional around view camera. This feature will definitely be convenient for parking in tight spaces.
Moving on to advanced safety features, both the X3 and XT5 are equipped with a collision safety system. However, the X3 has a more complex and advanced feature than the XT5, which is the city collision mitigation and prevention system, as well as pedestrian detection. This system improves braking to prevent damage to other vehicles at slow speeds and automatically applies brakes if a pedestrian is detected, even at higher speeds.
For the safety of the vehicle itself, the X3 is packed with electronic stability control, 4-wheel ABS, front and rear head airbags, dual front side-mounted airbags, child seat anchors, a remote anti-theft alarm system, emergency brake force preparation, an engine immobilizer, auto delay off headlamps, tire pressure monitoring, and more. On the other hand, the XT5 has its own unique safety feature called the "pedal forthright preventer," which is quite futuristic for a car. This feature will make the brakes vibrate if it detects an imminent forward collision.
Technology and safety are important for consumers to ensure that their entire family travels safely and arrives at their destination in the best possible way. In the X3 and XT5, both BMW and Cadillac have bestowed their best technology and safety features for consumers. According to a recent press release by IIHS, the BMW X3 scores a "GOOD" rating, which is the highest score offered for all test conditions. Unfortunately, there isn't any crash test data published yet for the Cadillac XT5. However, without being compared first, we can see that both brands have proven their reputation by providing all safety features as standard.
3.1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The Cadillac XT5 comes with a driver awareness package available on luxury and premium models. This package features safety alert driver seat settings that vibrate to alert you of possible collision and helps assist in keeping occupied drivers from drifting into another lane. Low speed forward automatic braking, front pedestrian detection, forward collision alert, and lane keep assist with lane departure warning are also included in this package ensuring that drivers have all the necessary safety measures in preventing collision all at a reasonable price. An added bonus to the Cadillac XT5 is the rear camera mirror that now comes standard on the platinum model. This replaces the traditional rearview mirror with an HD camera stream that has the potential of providing a wider, less obstructed field of view. The BMW X3 also offers numerous driver assistance features such as lane departure warning, speed limit information, and frontal collision warning with city collision mitigation. The X3's driver assistance package, similar to Cadillac's, includes all the safety measures of the Cadillac's driver awareness package but also adds rear and top view cameras and park distance control which is significantly beneficial in preventing simple parking mishaps and small fender benders. While the Cadillac XT5 boasts advanced driver assistance systems, the BMW X3 seems to offer more for the price.
3.2. Connectivity Features
The XT5 offers a Bose Performance Series sound system that would be more than sufficient for younger families. A sound setting located in the XT5's Navigation System would make it possible for a mother/father to limit the volume for teenage drivers. The X3's available Harman Kardon surround sound system, while the optional navigation system includes a touchpad to write or swipe directions, however, the system lacks features that can limit the usage of the audio to promote safer driving habits from new drivers.
The XT5's optional advanced GPS system can predict the weather based on temperature, altitude, and other factors. BMW X3 does not offer an advanced system. The XT5's WiFi system is 4G, allowing a better connection and transfer for information. However, the X3 offers this type of service as a trial and then requires a subscription after said trial. Both vehicles offer a remote app. The XT5's app offers updated fuel prices and can send directions from your phone to your vehicle. The X3's app can only lock and unlock doors, flash the lights and honk the horn, and also start the engine. The XT5 offers up to five USB outlets, four of which are scattered throughout the vehicle, and two 12-volt outlets with one located inside the center console. The X3 only offers a regular 12-volt outlet and a 12-volt outlet with a cigarette lighter. One USB outlet and one 12-volt outlet are also located inside the center console.
3.3. Safety Ratings and Features
Moving onto the Cadillac, there are still limited ratings in terms of crash tests and front crash prevention. When comparing the testing they do have for the XT5 to Cadillacs newest luxury midsize SUV, the CTS, we can expect similar results. The XT5 is a redesign and therefore is an improvement from the CTS. The CTS missed out on the IIHS top safety pick due to its headlight rating. If the XT5 has good headlight ratings, it has potential to earn the IIHS top safety pick which is yet to be determined. The XT5 has a new structure and a long list of new safety features that will aid in its rating. This includes a new camera mirror system that enhances the drivers' rearward vision by 300 percent, optionally available on the Luxury, and standard on Premium luxury and Platinum models. The IIHS ratings are yet to come, but Cadillac assures it has built this vehicle with stronger safety measures.
In terms of the safest ride for you and your loved ones, safety is always the number one concern. Safety for luxury automakers always seems to be changing as do their designs. It is important to keep up with the latest crash tests and safety features for today's modern car buyer. With that being said, beginning with the BMW, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the BMW X3 good ratings in all but one of their crash tests. BMW received a slightly less favorable rating in the new small overlap front test. Concerning head restraints and seats, IIHS rated the X3 'good' for whiplash protection in rear impacts. This vehicle also managed to earn an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention. This comes as part of an option for the X3, the BMW Collision Mitigation system. IIHS was sure to test this particular system and it managed to avoid collisions in both the 12 mph and 25 mph tests.
4. Pricing and Value
At a glance, the XT5 is the winner in terms of having more inexpensive access to all-wheel drive, but add-ons such as vehicle pricing and standard features must also be factored into the equation. During a competitive comparison in response to a potential vehicle lease/purchase, BMW will possibly be more affordable for someone desiring an upgrade to luxury or wanting a lot of drive options included with features. Despite the fact that the X3 has fewer less expensive build variations compared to the XT5, a discerning client may discover motor pool assets to put towards an xLine or M Sport, which would include characteristics such as sports seating and adjustable motif LED headlamps. This methodology is noticeably prevalent among Germans in the crossover segment. This frame of mind is a likely scenario in the case of an individual choosing to switch from a recently turned in X5 or X3.
Base Price Comparison The BMW X3 and Cadillac XT5 contrast in initial cost. The former, if a reservation is made in May 2017, begins at $42,475 for the xDrive30i iteration. The XT5 has been placed with an MSRP of $41,695 for the Premium Luxury FWD and $42,995 for the Luxury iteration. This accounts for adding all-wheel drive, which is more expensive at $43,695 and is not available until the Luxury ($44,595) and Platinum ($63,395) tiers. The additional freight for each vehicle is $995. Considering Audi recently put on a little hike forthcoming from BMW, these costs are ultimately realistic for Porsche's forthcoming Macan. The refreshed 2018 Jaguar F-PACE rings in at $42,065.
4.1. Base Price Comparison
BMW X3 starts out at $41,000 while Cadillac XT5 starts out at a cheaper price with $34,000. The difference in price in terms of $7,000 made a huge impact in deciding between which car to buy. A difference in cost was not only due to their size but there are many notable features that became a deciding factor. For example, at base price, BMW X3 comes in with an all-wheel drive system which is considered to be a big plus especially for those that live in areas with snow during cold winter. Cadillac XT5 comes in with a front wheel drive system and to have all-wheel drive would require further financial investment. Essentially, the consumer buying a Cadillac XT5 would need to pay extra from the base price to get all-wheel drive and is stuck with a front wheel drive system unless they are willing to shell out the extra money. From a different perspective, some people may be totally fine with a front wheel drive system but the money saved from the base price could be spent on other optional features and packages offered by Cadillac. Despite the price difference, their base variants are still catered to their specific target buyers in terms of providing luxury. Talking about a $7,000 price difference may be largely a deciding factor for some but for others it is just a small leap given the financial investment in a car. Considering that optional features and packages will incur an additional cost, a person buying BMW X3 will be spending at least $10,000 more for a fully loaded car compared to what a person buying Cadillac XT5 will spend. For some consumers interested in fully loaded cars, it may be a change in mind given how it will turn out to be a $10,000+ difference and they should consider if the extra investment is worthwhile.
4.2. Cost of Ownership
When considering the ownership costs for both vehicles, it is important to factor in the warranty coverage and available maintenance options. BMW offers a 50,000 mile, 4-year warranty which includes full maintenance, meaning the cost of ownership is extremely low. The XT5 offers a standard warranty which covers 4 years or 50,000 miles as well. However, the Cadillac warranty does not include maintenance. This can increase maintenance costs for XT5 owners. This cost is then heightened by the fact that Cadillac's replacement parts are often priced much higher than a foreign vehicle such as a BMW. In all, the X3 will have a cheaper overall maintenance cost than the XT5 due to included maintenance in the warranty and lower price of replacement parts. A final factor to consider in the overall cost of ownership is vehicle fuel economy. With a combined 8-speed transmission and the option of a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain, the X3 offers superior gas mileage to the XT5. This includes up to 28 mpg highway gas mileage with the diesel X3, in comparison to 26 mpg highway for the XT5. Over time, these numbers do add up to cost the XT5 owner more in fuel expenses.
4.3. Resale Value
Luxury vehicles often come with a certain set of expectations. In some cases, the vehicle is only as good as the badge it's attached to. Two of the leading brands in the industry that are often associated with quality and prestige are BMW and Cadillac. Here we will take a look at the new 2018 BMW X3 and 2018 Cadillac XT5 and a reason for the luxury compact crossover segment. The BMW X3 has become the best-selling vehicle in the BMW lineup. This might be a surprise to some, but the X3 offers a versatile mix of sportiness and utility that it hard to come by in its class. This is largely thanks to BMW's signature driving character which is present in even their SUV lineup. This makes the X3 enjoyable to drive with a feeling of being an oversized hatchback rather than a true SUV. This has hurt its sales in the past when consumers were looking for a more traditional and utilitarian SUV, but for the market today it has been a recipe for success. One factor that really separates a luxury vehicle from its mainstream counterpart is the interior quality. Cadillac has really stepped up their game with the XT5 in terms of interior design and materials, but it still does not hold a candle to the level of quality that the BMW X3 offers. German vehicles are often praised for their high-quality cabins and the X3 is no exception. The fit and finish is superb and every surface is made with high quality materials. The design is driver oriented and elegant and there is plenty of technology present with an intuitive infotainment system. In terms of comfort, optional 14-way power adjustable sport seats can be had in the X3 which might be the best seats in any vehicle at this price point. This is not to say the XT5 has a poor interior, but the X3 is such a strength in this area.