MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Cadillac Xt5

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Cadillac Xt5

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

2Recalls
12Complaints
1Investigations
ABOUT THE CADILLAC XT5

The Cadillac XT5 is a five-passenger midsize luxury SUV that competes in one of the most crowded segments in the American market. Positioned as Cadillac's volume-driving crossover, it targets buyers who want premium refinement, a composed ride, and brand cachet without stepping up to a three-row vehicle. The XT5 has been a cornerstone of Cadillac's lineup since its debut, and model years 2019 through 2025 represent a mature, well-developed generation.

VERDICT

The 2021 Cadillac Xt5 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the XT5 as a polished and comfortable entry in the luxury midsize SUV segment, praising its refined cabin and smooth ride character. Most feel it competes respectably against European and domestic rivals, though some note that its powertrain and technology features can feel a step behind the segment's most aggressive offerings depending on the model year.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 15.1%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15344

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record17.5/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA22V709000

Risk: An inoperative rearview camera can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the coaxial cables, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 18, 2023. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222378380.

Reported 2022-09-22

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS21V422000

Risk: Improperly attached and seated fuel supply lines may loosen or separate, causing a fuel leak and increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace fuel supply lines as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212335590.

Reported 2021-06-03

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

12 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

1reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsElectrical System 4Unknown Or Other 3Engine And Engine Cooling 2Back Over Prevention 2Engine 2Service Brakes 1

Other Xt5 years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15344), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Cadillac Xt5 2021. Class rank 8 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure