The 2021 Cadillac XT 5 is here. This luxury SUV has been competing with top brands and models for a few years now, and the newest version is packed with technology upgrades that make it more comfortable, fun and safe to drive. The 2021 model is not a complete redesign. Instead, incremental improvements can be seen across the board. In this review, we’ll focus on technology-based upgrades to the 2021 model. We’ll break it into sections for the interior, performance and safety, as all of these tech features are important.

Interior Technology

In the interior of the 2021 Cadillac XT5, you can expect common tech features for connectivity and entertainment. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa are all available. With Near Field Communication pairing, connecting your phone is easier than ever.

Infotainment is run through the 8-inch touchscreen. It has intuitive controls and a rotary controller. The system provides 4G LTE and Wi-Fi, and sound is run through an improved Bose stereo system.

Connectivity and convenience are further supported through direct connections and charging stations. The infotainment center has a USB-C port for connection and control. Throughout the cabin are 4 USB charging ports. Additionally, the wireless induction charging station has been upgraded for more compatibility and faster charging.

Even more technology in the interior improves driver and passenger comfort. There are now three climate-controlled zones — allowing everyone to experience maximum temperature control. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the rear seats now also have heating options.

Lastly, driver control is a little better. The digital display cluster has been upgraded. It is easier to navigate and provides more information than before. Additionally, the camera systems have all been improved to provide higher definition and video quality.

Performance Enhancing Tech

Not all of the new technology is located inside the cabin. Some new driving features really take the 2021 Cadillac XT5 experience to a new level. The first major change is the improvement to the adaptive suspension. Real-time chassis damping causes the suspension to respond to subtle changes in the road conditions, making the ride as smooth as possible at all times.

The electronic precision shift now allows you to select gears with a single gesture. Paired with the 9-speed transmission, drivers have even more control over how they operate the vehicle.

Perhaps the biggest upgrade is with the drive mode selector. The all-wheel-drive trims have a new selector with three different driving modes. Sport mode causes more aggressive shifting that makes acceleration more responsive and makes driving more fun. The off-road mode focuses on increasing torque and control, allowing the 2021 XT5 to handle even more diverse terrain than the previous models. The AWD mode is your general cruising mode that still has great performance and efficiency.

For those who prefer better fuel efficiency over all else, front-wheel-drive trims are also available, but they do not include the new driving modes.

Making the Drive Safer

Lastly, we can look at how safety features use new technology to continue to make driving better for everyone.

The big new thing with the 2021 Cadillac XT5 is night vision. The instrument cluster provides a night-vision enhanced camera view that makes it easier to see potential hazards on the road above. It’s located so that your eyes don’t have to leave the road in order to scan your night view.

Pedestrian alert is another improved feature that lets you know when pedestrians are in front of the vehicle. It is designed to be active whenever the vehicle is traveling below 50 mph — meaning you don’t have to worry about it interfering with your drives on the highway.

Pedestrian alerts pair with autonomous braking. When the vehicle detects a collision ahead, it can apply emergency braking even when drivers are unresponsive to the threat. This can prevent pedestrian collisions and makes the road safer for everyone.

Improved automatic parking makes it easy to park even in tricky circumstances. This reduces the risk of low-speed collisions that can damage the vehicle or the surrounding environment.

Rounding out available safety features are the few that drivers have come to expect from luxury vehicles. Lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control are all available for the 2021 XT5.

If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, it’s important you understand the amazing benefits of a down payment. While most experts suggest you put down around 20% of the value of the vehicle, any amount you can put down can be instrumental. Don’t have a cash down payment?

No problem. You can trade in your current vehicle, which will act identical to a down payment. Let’s take a closer look at some top benefits of a down payment at Jessup Cadillac.

Save Money by Using a Down Payment

Although this may seem counterintuitive; the bigger your down payment, the more money you could save. To state it a different way, the more money you put down, the less you’ll need to borrow. And when you have a smaller loan, you’ll pay less interest over the life of the loan, which means your total interest costs will be lowered.


Pay Less Interest

Here’s how: if you purchase a vehicle that costs roughly $30K and has an interest rate of 4.5%, you would pay around $3,557 in interest over the life of the loan. However, if you met the 20% down payment suggestion — around $6,000— on the same vehicle, you would pay only $$2,845 in interest over five years.

Get a Lower Interest Rate

Another way using a down payment can lead to savings is through lower interest rates. This is because your overall loan-to-value (LTV) will be less, which can make you more attractive and less risky to lenders. The loan to value is simply the amount you borrow vs the value of the vehicle. When you use a down payment, you will lower your LTV, which reduces the exposure a lender has and can lead to lower interest rates.

Increase the Likelihood of Auto Loan Approval

If you have less-than-perfect credit, no credit, or bad credit, a down payment could be the solution you need for auto loan approval. On one hand, using a down payment shows the lender you have “skin in the game.” On the other hand, a down payment reduces the risk that you’ll default on the loan, which means they will repossess it.

Slash Your Monthly Payments

Without a doubt, one of the top benefits of using a down payment is it can lower your monthly payment by reducing the total amount you need to finance. Using the same vehicle as above ($30K and had an interest rate of 4.5%), your monthly payments would be around $560 on a five-year loan.

However, if you put down $6,000, you would only need to borrow $24,000 for five years. And your monthly payments on the $24k would be considerably lower at $447 — saving you a whopping $112 bucks a month.

Prevent from Being Upside Down on a Vehicle

One major upside to using a down payment is to prevent being “upside-down”. Being upside down or having negative equity means you owe more on the vehicle than it’s worth. Negative equity is primarily caused by depreciation. On new vehicles, as soon as you drive it off the lot, it takes a considerable hit in value, which is depreciation. Most new vehicles will lose around 25% of their value in the first year and an estimated 15% subsequent years until it plateaus.

If you do not make a down payment, you will be upside down the moment you drive your new vehicle off the lot. As long as you keep the vehicle, being upside down isn’t a big deal. However, the moment, you look to trade it in, you could be staring down a significant loss.

Another key consideration of negative equity is if you are in a vehicle accident that results in your car being totaled. If this happens and you are upside down, you will be responsible for paying the difference (unless you have Gap Protection on the vehicle).

You Can Opt for a Shorter Term

A substantial down payment can also open the door to a shorter term. When you choose a shorter term, you’ll save more in interest charges and further reduce the likelihood of having negative equity. However, shorter terms typically mean higher monthly payments. Using a down payment can help you unlock the enticing attributes of a shorter term while keeping your monthly payments within your comfort zone.

Contact Jessup Cadillac Today

If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, the team at Jessup Cadillac can help. We are home to a massive inventory of premium Cadillac vehicles as well as high-quality used vehicles from all manufacturers. And we specialize in helping our customers find the best auto finance package. Whether you have a large down payment, small down payment, trade-in vehicle, or no down payment at all, we offer the financial solutions to help. Simply put, we strive to help you find a vehicle you love at monthly payments you can afford.

Contact Jessup Cadillac today!

Other than picking the model of the vehicle you want, the next toughest question you’ll need to consider is if you’ll buy or lease it. Here at Jessup Cadillac, we help our customers understand the differences between buying or leasing, so they can make the best decision for themselves.

When Should You Plan On Buying A Vehicle?

  • When you drive more than 15,000 miles a year- A lease does come with certain mileage restrictions, so if you know you’re on the road more than the average person, it might be better to buy. 
  • For someone who wants to personalize their vehicle- When you buy a vehicle, you are free to make any additions or changes at your leisure. This kind of freedom gives people more options and helps them feel like their car is truly theirs. Conversely, a lease could make you feel like its not really yours. 
  • If you like to do your own repairs- If you enjoy doing your own maintenance or repair work, owning a vehicle allows this opportunity. Even when more maintenance is required on older vehicles, many people get enjoyment knowing they are keeping it running great for the long haul. 
  • If you don’t always want the newest vehicle- A lease typically lasts around three years, and you can trade it in for a new one. However, if you like the idea of keeping your car for five years or more, buying one is right for you. 
  • Likes the accomplishment of paying off a large purchase- An auto loan is a big responsibility and there can be no greater feeling than knowing when you’ve paid it off free and clear. Modern vehicles are built to last and many individuals enjoy the freedom of having no car payment for months or even years. 
  • For those who like that attachment to one vehicle- A vehicle can feel almost like a part of the family after a few years. You rely on it to get it where you need to be, and it becomes part of daily life. 
  • For those who don’t mind a bigger down payment- A bigger down payment is usually required when you plan to own a new Cadillac. If you plan on using the money to lower the amount of the loan, it’s a good idea.  

When Should You Plan On Leasing A Vehicle?

  • When you drive less than 15,000 miles a year- A lease is good if you don’t have a large volume of driving. If you drive less than 12,000 miles a year, a lease is a good option.
  • Always enjoy having a new vehicle- A lease always gives you the chance to own a new car and have the latest technology available. After three years, you can trade it in for a new one. 
  • Have a vehicle under warranty- Leasing allows you to have your vehicle under warranty protection. Should something unexpected occur, it is not your responsibility. 
  • If you like your maintenance is done for you- Leasing a vehicle can allow you to have all maintenance or repairs done for you without having to worry about possible breakdowns. This peace of mind is good for those on a time crunch. 
  • You have access to higher-priced vehicles- It may be surprising to discover that leasing can give you a chance to lease higher-end vehicles and explore other options that may have previously been out of your price range. The monthly payment can be lower, but remember, you still don’t own the vehicle. 
  • For those who want a smaller down payment- A down payment on a Cadillac is typically lower when you’re planning to lease.  

There is no right or wrong decision when it comes to buying or leasing, but you should consider the differences carefully. Our team helps provide answers you’re looking for and ensure your choice is the right one.

Having Trouble Deciding To Buy Or Lease? Let The Experts From Jessup Cadillac Help!

Deciding to own or lease a vehicle can be a tough decision, but you’re not on your own. Our finance department at Jessup Cadillac is here to help and answer any questions you may have. Whether you’re in a current lease and want to buy your vehicle, you own a car and are looking for a trade-in, or you just want to lease the newest model available, we can help. Give us a call today or stop in, and we’ll be glad to get you started.

When our customers come to our location near Palm Springs, they know what the Cadillac brand means. For years, it has been known to deliver class-leading luxury, technology, and safety features that are of utmost importance to most vehicle shoppers. You won’t go wrong with any Cadillac vehicle you’re deciding to look at further, but they all have one thing in common. Each one is sophistically crafted to be a top of the line model with pure dominance on the road. Come check one out for yourself today, and we’ll be glad to show you around our showroom.

The Escalade has been the cornerstone of large SUVs in America for years, and there’s a reason why. It has an industry-first curved OLED display with a remarkable 38 inches of diagonal display. The Escalade has 121 cubic feet of cargo space, while the ESV has an eye-popping 142.8 feet. The interior is also thoughtfully designed with leather-appointed seats and wood finishes. The exterior makes a bold statement with standard 22-inch wheels and 3-foot taillamps that impress as the night sky starts to set in. You’ll get up to 8,200 pounds of towing capacity along with a robust 6.2 L V8 engine that produces 420 HP. Also, there’s an efficient and capable 3.0 L diesel option.

  • Cadillac XT4- The XT4 is the entryway into the Cadillac luxury crossovers. It’s an excellent choice for agility, power, and efficiency. It provides EPA-estimated 30 MPG on the highway, 258 lb-ft of torque, and plenty of horsepower with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Although its’ the smallest of the crossover choices, it still offers best in class rear leg room with 39.5 inches. An available twin-clutch AWD is available for the ultimate driver experience.
  • Cadillac XT5- Moving right along in the Cadillac crossover selection is the Cadillac XT5. It has plenty of room for young families who want to take the kids on a ride to a friend’s house. Taking a road trip out of town is no problem with up to 63 cubic feet of cargo space. Thrill-enthusiasts will appreciate the available 3.6 L V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. With everything there is to like, having the option of an advanced security package gives you more peace of mind.
  • Cadillac XT6- The Cadillac XT6 is the largest when you compare it to the XT4 and XT5, but it still has the agility you desire. It has everything you’ll enjoy for interior space and performance. The XT6 seats seven and has 78.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Taller passengers never have to worry about being cramped because it has 37.2 inches of third-row head room. There’s also the ability to haul up to 4,000 pounds with the Smart Tow Trailering System.
  • Cadillac CT4- The CT4 is a nimble performer that is perfect for the daily commute to work. It comes standard with a 2.0L turbocharged engine paired with 8-speed automatic transmission. The CT4 is also available with all-wheel drive to navigate tough terrain and has a bevy of tech features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and safety alert seat. The cockpit has an eight-inch color touchscreen to have everything accessible right at your fingertips.
  • Cadillac CT5- The CT5 is next in the sedan lineup and has more passenger space than the CT4 model. It promises an exhilarating ride with a 2.0L twin-scroll turbocharged engine that’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. If you’re looking to amp up the power even more, there’s an available 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine. The Sport trim offers 18-way performance bolstered front seats designed for maximum comfort. Several innovative tech features allow you to have the best available ride out there. These include Super Cruise, Magnetic Ride Control, and more than 20 different driver-assisted technologies available.

The Cadillac brand has been synonymous with luxury and style for over 100 years. It’s easy to recognize one of them on the road with their superior craftsmanship and head-turning design. Many people looking to purchase a new vehicle go with Cadillac because of its trusted performance and an array of technology features. While you can’t go wrong with any model you choose, picking the right one can seem a little overwhelming. Take a look at an overview of the most iconic Cadillac models so you can make the best decision for yourself.

The Cadillac Sedan Lineup 

  • Cadillac CT4– The CT4 is a nimble performer that is perfect for the daily commute to work. It comes standard with a 2.0L turbocharged engine paired with 8-speed automatic transmission. The CT4 is also available with all-wheel drive to navigate tough terrain and has a bevy of tech features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and safety alert seat. The cockpit has an eight-inch color touchscreen to have everything accessible right at your fingertips.
  • Cadillac CT5– The CT5 is next in the sedan lineup and has more passenger space than the CT4 model. It promises an exhilarating ride with a 2.0L twin-scroll turbocharged engine that’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. If you’re looking to amp up the power even more, there’s an available 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine. The Sport trim offers 18-way performance bolstered front seats designed for maximum comfort. Several innovative tech features allow you to have the best available ride out there. These include Super Cruise, Magnetic Ride Control, and more than 20 different driver-assisted technologies available.

The Cadillac Crossover And SUV Lineup 

  • Cadillac XT4– The XT4 is the entryway into the Cadillac luxury crossovers. It’s an excellent choice for agility, power, and efficiency. It provides EPA-estimated 30 MPG on the highway, 258 lb-ft of torque, and plenty of horsepower with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Although its’ the smallest of the crossover choices, it still offers best in class rear leg room with 39.5 inches. An available twin-clutch AWD is available for the ultimate driver experience.
  • Cadillac XT5– Moving right along in the Cadillac crossover selection is the Cadillac XT5. It has plenty of room for young families who want to take the kids on a ride to a friend’s house. Taking a road trip out of town is no problem with up to 63 cubic feet of cargo space. Thrill-enthusiasts will appreciate the available 3.6 L V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower. With everything there is to like, having the option of an advanced security package gives you more peace of mind.
  • Cadillac XT6– The Cadillac XT6 is the largest when you compare it to the XT4 and XT5, but it still has the agility you desire. It has everything you’ll enjoy for interior space and performance. The XT6 seats seven and has 78.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Taller passengers never have to worry about being cramped because it has 37.2 inches of third-row head room. There’s also the ability to haul up to 4,000 pounds with the Smart Tow Trailering System.

The Iconic Cadillac Escalade

The Escalade has been the cornerstone of large SUVs in America for years, and there’s a reason why. It has an industry-first curved OLED display with a remarkable 38 inches of diagonal display. The Escalade has 121 cubic feet of cargo space, while the ESV has an eye-popping 142.8 feet. The interior is also thoughtfully designed with leather-appointed seats and wood finishes. The exterior makes a bold statement with standard 22-inch wheels and 3-foot taillamps that impress as the night sky starts to set in. You’ll get up to 8,200 pounds of towing capacity along with a robust 6.2 L V8 engine that produces 420 HP. Also, there’s an efficient and capable 3.0 L diesel option.

Why Consider Purchasing A Cadillac With The Help Of Jessup Cadillac? 

When our customers come to our location near Palm Springs, they know what the Cadillac brand means. For years, it has been known to deliver class-leading luxury, technology, and safety features that are of utmost importance to most vehicle shoppers. You won’t go wrong with any Cadillac vehicle you’re deciding to look at further, but they all have one thing in common. Each one is sophistically crafted to be a top of the line model with pure dominance on the road. Come check one out for yourself today, and we’ll be glad to show you around our showroom.

Service mechanic working on a vehicle tire

Our service department is open and we have taken additional precautions to ensure your safety. We offer maintenance home pickup services, where we can pick your vehicle up and return it to you following the completion of service. We know that vehicle repairs or maintenance may not be at top of mind at this time, but if your vehicle is in need of service, you can conveniently schedule service online at a time that works for you from your phone, computer or tablet.