2020 Cadillac XT5: Best Selling Caddy Gets All Lotta Updates!

• The 2020 Cadillac XT5 benefits from a number of changes for the new model year.
• Interior themes focus on comfort and luxury; connectivity and security features.
• A new turbo engine is offered for 2020, though the 3.6 V6 remains an option.

Did you know that the Cadillac XT5 is the brand's best-selling model in the world? This should come as no surprise given the popularity of SUVs, especially luxury ones, and the Caddy's encroachment on the Chinese market. So, as a backdrop, you can see why Cadillac only opted for a redesign of its bestseller rather than a complete redesign. However, the update is as complete as they come. Cadillac says over 40 different items have been updated for the XT5 for 2020.

Here's a look at what to expect when the XT5 hits the dealership.

What are the Trim Levels of the 2020 Cadillac XT5?

For the new model year, the 2020 Cadillac XT5 comes in four trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury (an over-named trim level, if nothing else), and Sport. The Premium Lux emphasizes bright finishes and modern décor, while the Sport gets darker and more aggressive. As you'd expect, the Luxury and Premium Luxury are comfort-focused and provide "privacy from road clutter," Cadillac says. The Sport, by contrast, has quicker steering and more aggressive chassis tuning and the like.

Luxury and Premium Luxury models get standard 18-inch wheels, though a new 20-inch wheel is also available. The XT5 Sport gets 20 inches standard. Across the range, you'll find a new grille design available in two textures, and an available Platinum package for more tech.

2020 Cadillac XT5 Premium Luxury. Photo: Cadillac.

And speaking of technology. . .

The Caddy has no booting issues as far as the bean counters allow, and infotainment and driver assist technologies take center stage. The new XT5 now has over 20 available safety and driver assistance features. The XT5's "User Interaction Interface" is getting an update, as is the rotary controller with more complete jog functionality. Note that this complements the regular buttons and touchscreen, but doesn't eliminate them completely. This is a great move. Hörst du German car manufacturers?

When Cadillac talks about user interface, it means an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, various apps, and an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. There is a one-touch phone option for Near Field Communication, but this is slowly becoming standard, especially on expensive rides like the XT5.

2020 Cadillac XT5 touchscreen. Photo: Cadillac.

Related: Affordable luxury for younger buyers: On the road with the 2019 Cadillac XT4.

Interior treatments

It's a Cadillac, so of course the pleasant feeling of comfort and convenience will make you feel like you're driving a luxury at the Hilton. There are new interior "themes", each of which includes a richer selection of authentic materials and coordinating decor. There's also a new Jet Black/Kona Brown theme that includes premium leather seats, door trim, and armrests. Further highlights come from new designs for the center console and cupholders (of course).

Best of all, there's a new Bose Performance Series sound system.

2020 Cadillac XT5 cargo area. Photo: Cadillac.

2020 Cadillac XT5: power and performance

The engine bay for the XT5 gets a new choice for 2020. 2.0L Turbo is now standard on Luxury and Premium Luxury; the existing 3.6L V6 remains standard on Sport but is still an option on Premium Luxury. Both engines are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission controlled by Cadillac's next generation of Electronic Precision Shift technology.