2022 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a unique blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, distinguishing itself from traditional SUVs. Despite its aggressive styling, the NX maintained a sense of familiarity due to its consistent design over the years. The F Sport Black Line model featured a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, which contrasted nicely with the darker trim elements. Inside, the NX's design once seemed radical but had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional wood trim. The F Sport package added sporty touches like aluminum pedals and blue-stitched NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Cadillac XT5 combined Cadillac’s signature design cues with a compact footprint and tall profile, creating an unmistakable yet somewhat ungainly appearance. The Premium Luxury and Sport models offered distinct styling cues, with the former featuring bright chrome and the latter darker trim and a mesh grille. The XT5’s interior, enhanced by the optional Platinum Package, felt luxurious with semi-aniline leather and a microfiber sueded headliner. However, the design lacked a strong theme, missing brand-specific markers that would remind occupants they were in a Cadillac.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It came standard with all-wheel drive, but its performance was more focused on fuel efficiency than excitement. The NX Hybrid accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds, with a top speed of 112 mph. The sport-tuned suspension in the Black Line package improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with a heavy foot. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal impact on the driving experience.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered a base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 235 horsepower and an optional 3.6-liter V6 producing 310 horsepower. The V6, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, delivered smooth and quick shifts. The optional Platinum Package included a performance suspension with adaptive dampers, providing a comfortable ride and excellent body control. The steering was well-suited for luxury driving, and the cabin remained impressively quiet, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Front-seat legroom was generous, but rear legroom was lacking. The dashboard and door sides rose high, offering a sporty feel, but rear visibility was compromised by thick pillars. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Power-folding seats and a power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 offered more front headroom than some German competitors and more legroom in both rows, though rear headroom was less than ideal. The seats were comfortable but could have used more cushioning. Cargo space was generous, with 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63 cubic feet with them folded. A hands-free power liftgate was available, and a small cubbyhole provided additional storage up front.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, the system felt dated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, but the sound quality was lacking.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 came with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system was easier to navigate than previous versions, but secondary controls were cumbersome. The optional Bose Performance Series 14-speaker system delivered excellent sound quality, enhanced by the XT5’s quiet interior.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Cadillac XT5 received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist, with additional options like adaptive cruise control and a surround-vision camera system. However, it didn’t offer Cadillac’s advanced Super Cruise system.