The 2025 Lexus RX and Cadillac XT5 are both great models that each have their own strengths: the Lexus RX is one of the most popular luxury SUVs in the market, while the Cadillac XT5 will appeal if you’re a driver who prefers a sporty SUV. If you’re undecided about the Lexus RX vs. Cadillac XT5 contest, our team at Lexus Stevens Creek in San Jose has compiled this definitive car comparison guide to aid your choice.
Pricing and Trim Level Breakdown
Pricing is a significant factor when purchasing a vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of the trims and pricing levels of both models.
2025 Lexus RX Pricing Structure
The 2025 Lexus RX is available in six trims, starting with the base 350, followed by the 350 Premium, Premium+, Luxury, Sport Design, and Sport Handling AWD. Here’s a breakdown of each trim’s MSRP:
- 350: $50,575
- 350 Premium: $52,825
- 350 Premium+: $56,315
- 350 Luxury: $61,370
- 350 F Sport Design: $57,455
- 350 F Sport Handling AWD: $59,425
The Lexus RX is also available in eight hybrid trims for those seeking improved fuel efficiency, spanning three powertrains — the 350h, 450h, and 500h. Here’s a list of each trim and its MSRP:
- 350h: $52,875
- 350h Premium: $55,125
- 350h Premium+: $58,215
- 350h Luxury: $63,270
- 450h+ Luxury: $72,610
- 350h F Sport Design: $57,055
- 500h F Sport Performance: $66,150
- 500h Black Line Special Edition: $68,750
2025 Cadillac XT5 Pricing Structure
The Cadillac XT5 is a competitively priced luxury SUV, but it offers fewer trim and hybrid options compared to the Lexus RX; the trim range consists of the Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport. Here are their MSRPs:
- Luxury: $44,295
- Premium Luxury: $50,595
- Sport: $57,195
Performance and Powertrain Comparison
Performance is a crucial factor in the luxury SUV segment, particularly since you need a vehicle with power when ferrying family and friends around. Here’s a breakdown comparison between the two.
Engine Options and Specifications
The base model of the Lexus RX is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces up to 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Its hybrid counterpart has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers up to 246 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD) for extra stability. The Cadillac XT5’s base engine is a standard turbocharged four-cylinder, which falls short in comparison in terms of power, producing up to 235 horsepower. However, you can opt for the V-6 engine, which can deliver up to 310 horsepower.
Transmission and Drivetrain Systems
The Lexus RX has an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD) on its base model, but you can upgrade it to AWD if needed. Its hybrid counterpart utilizes a CVT and AWD for a smooth and seamless ride. The Cadillac XT5 is similar, powered by a nine-speed automatic transmission and FWD, with an optional AWD model available.
Real-World Performance Testing and Fuel Economy
On the road, the Lexus RX350 can reach 0 to 60 mph in around 7 seconds, depending on the trim, while the Cadillac XT5 provides a faster acceleration time of 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds, again depending on the trim. For fuel efficiency, both the Lexus and Cadillac perform similarly, achieving 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, the clear winner is the Lexus RX Hybrid, which achieves 37 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Interior Design and Comfort
The RX seats up to five passengers and features a modern interior with textured fabric sections, as well as 14 different preset ambient lighting options. You can also upgrade your cabin to include a retractable panorama glass roof, allowing you to fill your cabin with natural light (or moonlight), as well as heated and ventilated rear seats for more tailored comfort.
You’ll find a generous 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats. The Lexus also offers a great convenience factor — a power rear door with a kick sensor that helps you automatically open your boot just by gently kicking your foot under the rear bumper when your hands are full of groceries.
The XT5 has a comfortable interior, but it doesn’t look as modern and plush as the RX. Rear passenger seating is smaller, but the Cadillac compensates with its generous cargo space of 30 cubic feet. Other features include heated front seats and trizone climate control to ensure everyone remains comfortable on long journeys.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
Lexus and Cadillac both feature a modern technology stack that enhances convenience and entertainment during your drives. The RX has a 9.8-inch infotainment touch screen built with Lexus’ latest software interface. Smartphone integration is standard, but you can enjoy some useful add-ons, such as a 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system and a cloud navigation system that provides real-time route information and directions.
The Cadillac features a smaller 8-inch touch screen, with standard smartphone integration as well. Its tech stack is less luxurious, with basic navigation support and a 14-speaker Bose Performance series audio system. However, the XT5 excels in connectivity, featuring four USB ports located throughout the cabin and a wireless charging pad in the front.
Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Systems
Safety is key for both models, with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and Cadillac Smart System keeping you safe. The RX features many refined driver-assistance systems, including the precollision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic cruise control, lane departure alert, lane-trace and road sign assist systems, an automatic high beam, and proactive driving assist.
The XT5 also boasts excellent standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, an HD rear vision camera, front and rear park assist, and lane-keep assist with lane departure warning. However, more advanced features, such as blind-spot monitoring, will require upgrades and incur a substantial cost. Both models achieve excellent crash test results, so you know you’ll be safe in either the Lexus RX or the Cadillac XT5.
Which SUV Should You Choose?
Both the Lexus RX and Cadillac XT5 are luxury models that are worth their price; however, the choice ultimately depends on your lifestyle and needs. Families may prefer the XT5 for its extra cargo space, but if you value luxury, fuel efficiency, and state-of-the-art technology, you may prefer the RX for its quality materials, advanced tech system, and hybrid options.
The Lexus RX is now available at Lexus Stevens Creek. Take a look at our online inventory to find out more about the model, or contact us to schedule a test-drive and experience it for yourself.
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