Debut of Cadillac’s XT5 in China, US Launch Status Unclear

Sneak peek at the elegant crossover before its grand debut.

Cadillac has committed to becoming all-electric by the year 2030, however there is still room for a few more models with traditional combustion engines. The XT5 is currently one of those models, but it will soon undergo a significant change as it enters its second generation later this year. In anticipation of its official debut, the upscale crossover has been revealed in China during the homologation procedure by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

As the years have passed since its debut in 2016, the outgoing XT5 is starting to show its age. However, there is good news on the horizon as its successor is just about to make its entrance with a slightly updated appearance. It’s clear that Cadillac has stuck with their current design language, as the changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary. The signature slim strip of horizontal lights at the top remains, accompanied by a vertical bar that extends downwards to create an inverted “L” shape at both the front and back of the car.

General Motors’ high-end division has decided to go with a more angular appearance and intends to provide the XT5 in various variations. Observant readers will observe that the pictures displayed on the MIIT website feature at least a few different versions, each accompanied by multiple alloy wheel choices, one of which is coupled with red brake calipers. The inside hasn’t been uncovered yet, but it won’t come as a shock if it features the same 33-inch display seen in recent Cadillac models like the CT5.

The following images are accompanied by preliminary technical details. It has been revealed that China’s 2025 XT5 measures 192.4 inches (4888 millimeters) in length, 77 inches (1957 mm) in width, and 66.7 inches (1694 mm) in height. This marks a slight increase in size compared to its previous model, as well as a longer wheelbase of 112.7 inches (2863 mm).

The upcoming XT5 model designed for the second most densely populated country in the world will run on a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 227 horsepower. While front-wheel drive will be the default configuration, Cadillac plans to offer pricier options in China with all-wheel drive.

The main concern remains: will Cadillac bring the upcoming XT5 to the American market? At the 2022 GM Investor Day, GM President Mark Reuss announced that the next generation crossover would only be available in China. However, a recent report from GM Authority in late 2023 hinted at a potential shift in intentions, suggesting that the upgraded model could possibly be released in North America as well.

Source: Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)