2023 Cadillac XT5 vs. BMW X3
One of Cadillac’s perennial best sellers, the Cadillac XT5, delivers modern drivers exactly what they’re looking for in a luxury SUV. All-American power and performance is complimented by luxurious touches that have been characteristic of the Cadillac brand for decades. A true luxury leader for automotive vehicles, Cadillac is a tough brand to beat, however the popularity of SUVs are at an all time high, and the number of competing models grow larger every year. With so many luxury SUVs crowding the field, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you. Luckily, the experts at McGee Motors Cadillac have done the hard work and research to make your decision easier. We’ve put the Cadillac XT5 head-to-head against a challenging competitor, the BMW X3. Read on with us as we dive into the American vs. German luxury SUV battle and find out which vehicle reigns supreme.
Specifications & Features | 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport AWD | 2023 BMW X3 xDrive30i |
MRSP | $62,197 | $58,395 |
Horsepower | 310 | 248 |
Torque (lb-ft) | 271 | 258 |
Towing Capacity (lb) | 3,501 | 4,409 |
Payload (lb) | 1,662 | 1,208 |
Cargo Volume (L) | 1,784 | 1,600 |
Fuel Efficiency (L/100km) | 12.9 / 9.2 (city/hwy) | 9.7 / 7.0 (city/hwy est.) |
Performance Battle
Dropping a statline of 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque, the 2023 Cadillac XT5 Sport is off to a quick start with its raucous V6 engine offering. A popular choice amongst XT5 faithful, the V6 is paired with a silky smooth 9-speed automatic transmission. Responsive and dynamic on the road, the XT5 Sport also features chassis dampening control, and standard Brembo performance front brakes.
The 2023 BMW X3 isn’t as explosive as the XT5, with a 2.0L turbocharged engine offering 248 horses and 258 lb-ft of torque. Of course, power and performance can be significantly upgraded with the BMW X3 M40i, but with a starting price of $74,235, the price comes at a steep cost, especially when considering it’s over $10k more than the top trim level of XT5. With the vehicles trading blows rather evenly the rest of the way in this category, the X3 edging out in fuel efficiency and towing capacity, and the XT5 leading the way with payload and cargo volume, we’d say the XT5 comes out of the performance battle with a slight lead.
Interior & Exterior Design
Design is a strong point for the 2023 XT5 Sport as the luxury SUV doesn’t shy away from attention. Looking at the exterior, the XT5 Sport is highlighted by a distinctive mesh grille and sharp LED headlights, complemented by LED vertical cornering lights. You won’t mistake the XT5 for another vehicle on the road. Other premium exterior features include, detailed window surround, roof rails, and 20” alloy wheels. Step inside the XT5 Sport and you’re surrounded by an interior made from obsessive craftsmanship. Explore premium cut-and-sewn leather, natural woods and carbon fibre trims, throughout the XT5 sport, giving a true touch of class. Interior highlights include, heated and ventilated front seats, 8-way power adjustable drivers seat, and 60/40 rear seats helping you make the most of the 1,784 litres of cargo space at your disposal.
The 2023 BMW X3 offers its own unique design, and a well crafted interior with luxury appointments. Many features parallel those of the 2023 XT5 Sport, however a few features such as lumbar support, seat ventilation, and the panoramic moonroof are not standard inclusions, while the XT5 Sport does include those features missing from the X3. The additional cost ($4,200) from the packages to add on the lumbar support and moonroof (ventilation not available), bump the cost of the 2023 X3 just over the price of the XT5. With relatively similar features at near parallel MSRPs, the 2023 XT5 extends its lead on the X3 with its ventilated seat option, better cargo space, and strong design.
Technology & Safety
Cadillac is known for superior technology and safety features, and Cadillac Smart System is a perfect example of that. A suite of standard safety features, the XT5 Sport adds on several advanced safety features, delivering a confident ride for those behind the wheel. Safety highlights of the 2023 XT5 Sport include:
- Front Pedestrian Braking
- Automatic Emergency Braking System
- Forward Collision Alert
- Safety Alert Seat
- Rear Seat Reminder
- Rear Park Assist
- HD Vision Camera
- Teen Driver
The 2023 X3 brings its own intelligent safety features to the table, with a comprehensive suite matching that of the 2023 XT5. Major differences include the inclusion of wireless charging on the XT5 while not available on the X3. Head Up Display and parking assistant with surround view is included in the Premium Enhanced package ($7,400) for the X3, skyrocketing the price. For the value of technology you get, we like the XT5 Sport in this regard.
XT5 vs. X3 Verdict
Providing worthwhile competition for the 2023 XT5, the BMW X3 is an impressive luxury SUV, offering many desirable features for enthusiasts. Looking at how the top-trim XT5 Sport model compares to the X3 in terms of price and value offered, the Cadillac edges out the BMW. Unanimously across every major category we think the XT5 dominates its BMW counterpart.
Make a statement with the 2023 Cadillac XT5 and let us show you how American luxury can make your day-to-day journeys as compelling as possible. A superb choice for an SUV in Ontario, the 2023 Cadillac XT5 is available at McGee Motors Cadillac. If you’re interested in the XT5, but would like more information on the full Cadillac model lineup, our trained experts have your back. Discover new Cadillac models in Ontario, and explore used vehicle options. McGee Cadillac carries all makes and models, there may just be something in our inventory that you’re looking for. Book service and shop parts with our team, and make sure to contact our dealership in Goderich for all things Cadillac.