Lagging Behind
Usually, the home country for a specific brand and model is the first to receive updates. In the case of the Cadillac XT5, China gets first dibs not just on the all-new model, but also on an improved electrified powertrain. Currently, the United States spec of the XT5 is still running and based on the first-generation model, despite getting a facelift in 2020, it pales in comparison to the global XT5.
Cadillac in China was recently reported to be set to introduce a new PHEV model update for its current-gen XT5, and we can’t help but wonder why America doesn’t get it.
China's MIIT
Super PHEV Range
According to a report by China’s Autohome, Cadillac’s updated XT5 will get a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 154 horsepower, paired with a dual-motor plug-in hybrid system that delivers a combined output of 214 hp (front motor) and 147 hp (rear motor). According to Cadillac, the combined fuel consumption is listed at 46 miles per gallon.
While those might not seem like groundbreaking figures, it’s the pure EV range that makes this XT5 intriguing. The report states that China’s new PHEV XT5 has a full EV range of 155 km (96 miles), which is significantly higher than the highest full-EV range of any PHEV sold in America.
For context, the highest EV range of a PHEV sold in America is the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC PHEV, rated at 54 miles. That’s an astonishing difference of 42 miles, and what makes it even more shocking is that the American XT5 has no electrified powertrain options. Should any American want an XT5, they have a choice between a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6.
Cadillac
Previous Generation Looks
Looks-wise, the U.S. version of the XT5 closely resembles the previous-generation Cadillac design language, while China gets an XT5 that adopts the modern, up-to-date look the brand uses across the lineup.
Our most recent report on the XT5 revealed Cadillac still plans to sell a gasoline-powered XT5 in the U.S. past 2026. However, a new model is set to be introduced sometime in 2027. Could it mean that America will finally get the XT5 it deserves? We’ll have to wait and see, but it would be a shame if the next XT5 comes up short.
Cadillac
About the author
Pablo Salapantan
News Editor