SRX-replacing Cadillac XT5 spied for the very first time

Thu, 30 Oct 2014

Cadillac has got big plans in place to revitalize its lineup, with new sedans, coupes and crossovers. And it all starts with this, the replacement for the SRX.

Expected to be called XT5 in line with the brand's new naming scheme, the crossover will be based on a scalable new platform called C1XX – or Chi, for short. In its shorter form, Chi is anticipated to underpin the XT5 as well as a new Chevy crossover and the next-gen GMC Acadia. In long-wheelbase form, the platform is slated to give us a larger Cadillac crossover as well as a new Buick Enclave and Chevy Traverse.

Power in the XT5 will be provided by a choice of turbo four or atmospheric six, potentially to be transmitted through GM's new nine-speed automatic.

Although it's hard to discern much from the shots of this heavily camouflaged prototype, our snappers on the ground point out that it's got a grille similar to that one the new ATS Coupe, and that a boxy appendage is actually hiding a sloping rear window. Multiple radar sensors can also be seen, along with the mirrors moved from the windows to the doors and dual chrome exhaust pipes popping out the back.

Look for the Cadillac XT5 to debut late in 2015 or early 2016 as a 2016 or 2017 model, with production to shift from Mexico to Spring Hill, TN.

By Noah Joseph