The 2026 Cadillac XT5 precludes the next generation with more of what you want and expect. This midsize luxury SUV could be right for you.

Good news for Cadillac fans – the XT5 isn’t going anywhere. Cadillac has officially confirmed that a next-generation XT5 is in the works for North America, and it’s likely bringing hybrid options to the table. This redesigned luxury SUV will continue competing in the competitive midsize segment, but with updated tech and potentially electrified powertrains to keep pace with changing buyer demands.

Out of its league

If you learned the XT5 was in the same class as the high-end luxury SUV models, such as the Porsche Macan, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Genesis GV70, you might think the Cadillac SUV was out of its depth. When you get behind the wheel, you might not mind that this SUV outclassed; the new XT5 can be a great choice when you want a luxury SUV. The XT5 redesign has been confirmed, adding more to the current lineup including hybrid and electrification.

Roomy and ready to drive

The 2026 Cadillac XT5 prepares for the next generation and should continue to provide lots of room inside for passengers and their gear. The Cadillac SUV lineup for 2026 might not increase in the number of models, but a new Cadillac XT5 hybrid is in the works, which will expand the powertrains offered for this midsize luxury SUV. The interior design and finishes bring luxury to the mix, but don’t quite reach the same levels as Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, or BMW, but that shouldn’t keep anyone from choosing the popular XT5.

Waiting for the redesign

Although 2026 will be a basically uneventful year for the XT5, when the calendar turns and the 2027 model year version arrives, there should be a luxury hybrid SUV wearing the XT5 badge in the mix. Hybrid models weren’t initially part of the Cadillac electrification plans, but that has changed with the changes in the market. As more EVs get overlooked and more hybrids are scooped up, Cadillac has to make the switch from an EV-heavy focus to add more models that are more popular, which shoppers right now. Cadillac hasn’t abandoned its plans to build EVs, but hybrids will come first and create more opportunities for shoppers to drive the vehicle they are sure to enjoy.

2026 powertrains continue from 2025

The 2026 Cadillac XT5 will not be part of the next generation, but it opens the door for what will happen the following year. For 2026, the powertrain offerings are a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 235 horsepower and a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 310 horsepower. These engines mate to a nine-speed automatic transmission that sends power to either the front wheels or all four, giving drivers an AWD SUV with all the luxury features desired of a Cadillac SUV.

The six-cylinder setup is extremely quiet while cruising along the highway. You won’t hear it unless you push the accelerator hard, but then you hear this engine kicking in and letting you know it’s working hard.

How well does this SUV drive?

As one of the lower-run luxury midsize SUVs on the market, the XT5 feels good on most roads, keeping the body roll in check, but it doesn’t smooth out bumps and abrasions on the road like some of the higher-priced luxury SUVs. Still, you can drive this Cadillac SUV with confidence and enjoy the planted and substantial feeling it gives you.

Its getting a little dated

The good news for the 2026 Cadillac XT5 is that the next generation model is right around the corner. Cadillac needs to step up its game to provide a much better driving experience if it wants to keep up with the big dogs in this group. Adding a new hybrid powertrain could be the right step forward and help Cadillac become a value-oriented luxury brand instead of competing with BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. Maybe Cadillac should focus on competing with Lincoln, Acura, and Infiniti.

When you step inside the XT5, you’ll find an agreeable driving position with good controls and useful features. The second row is roomy enough for taller passengers to stretch out when they need to. The cargo volume measures 30 cu-ft behind the rear seat, and the XT5 can tow up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with the V6 powertrain.

What will the new hybrid powertrain bring? How much electrification can you expect in the XT5? You’ll have to wait until the 2027 model arrives to find out.