When exploring the luxury midsize SUV market, two prominent contenders for 2025 are the Cadillac XT5 and the Lexus RX. Both models have carved out significant niches, with the XT5 gaining a reputation since its 2017 debut for its elegant design, premium interior materials, smart storage, and dependable performance. The RX, on the other hand, has become a global and domestic best-seller for Lexus, lauded for its harmonious blend of opulence, comfort, cutting-edge technology, and reliability since its fifth-generation launch in 2022. While both SUVs excel in similar key aspects, a deeper dive into their offerings reveals subtle differences that can significantly influence a buyer's choice. The 2025 XT5 starts at $44,295, and the 2025 RX at $50,475, with both largely carrying over from the previous year, apart from some trim reorganizations for the Lexus.
A critical differentiator in performance and efficiency lies in their powertrain offerings, especially the absence of hybrid options in the Cadillac XT5. Focusing on internal combustion engine (ICE) variants, the XT5 features a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission, generating 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. An upgrade to a 3.6-liter V6 boosts output to 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, also paired with a 9-speed automatic. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) are available across all XT5 trims. In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX 350, equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivers 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, available in FWD and AWD configurations. Fuel economy figures show the FWD XT5 2.0L achieving 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway, while AWD variants see a slight dip to 21/27 mpg. The V6 XT5 records 19/26 mpg (FWD) and 18/26 mpg (AWD). The FWD Lexus RX 350 matches the XT5 2.0L at 22/29 mpg, with AWD models rated at 21/28 mpg.
Interior comfort and technology also present distinct advantages for each model. The XT5 and RX 350 offer comparable front legroom at around 41 inches, but the XT5 edges out the RX in rear legroom with 39 inches compared to the RX's 37.4 inches. Cadillac also boasts a more substantial cargo capacity; while its space behind the second row is only marginally larger than the RX 350's (30 cubic feet vs. 29.6), folding the rear seats expands the XT5's volume to 63 cubic feet, significantly surpassing the RX's 46.2 cubic feet. For front seating, the XT5 provides an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a 6-way power passenger seat, whereas the RX 350 offers 8-way power adjustments for both front occupants. Material choices include synthetic and genuine leather for both models, with the RX also offering semi-aniline leather. Technologically, the RX 350 features a larger 9.8-inch infotainment touchscreen (1.8 inches larger than the XT5's) and a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which is an optional 8-inch display in the XT5. Audio systems range from an 8-speaker standard or 14-speaker Bose optional in the XT5, to a 12-speaker standard or 21-speaker Mark Levinson optional in the RX 350. Both SUVs earned a five-star overall crash safety rating from NHTSA and share identical basic (four years/50,000 miles) and powertrain (six years/70,000 miles) warranties.
Ultimately, the choice between the 2025 Cadillac XT5 and the 2025 Lexus RX 350 hinges on individual priorities. While the Lexus RX 350 offers superior display and audio technology, broader upholstery options, and more potent standard engine performance, these enhancements come with a higher price tag. If these features are paramount to your driving experience, the RX 350’s premium might be a worthwhile investment. Conversely, if generous interior space and a timeless design aesthetic are more appealing than the RX's modern, sometimes divisive exterior, the XT5 presents a compelling alternative. Regardless of initial leanings, experiencing both vehicles through a test drive is crucial to determine which midsize luxury SUV best aligns with your needs and preferences, embodying the principle that personal experience is the ultimate guide to an informed decision.