Cadillac managed to do a pretty good job of keeping its upcoming SRX replacement under wraps, but now the vehicle has been spotted completely undisguised on the streets of New York City. This photo and another showing the rear of the vehicle were posted to the Opposite Lock forum by member Saw930. Importantly, the shot of the rear confirms that the SRX replacement will be called an XT5. It will be revealed later this year, as a 2017 model.
MORE: 2016 Cadillac CT6 At New York Auto Show: Live Photos
The switch to the XT5 name is in line with Cadillac’s new naming strategy where high-riding models all feature an “XT” in their name followed by a number denoting their positioning in the lineup. Sedans and coupes use a “CT” and a number, with the recently revealed CT6 being the first to adopt this new naming strategy. Cadillac’s flagship SUV will still be badged an Escalade, however, because of the nameplate’s significance.
The new XT5 features a handsome look that incorporates the latest Cadillac styling cues such as the cascading daytime running lights and a badge without the classic laurel wreath. Not much else is known about the vehicle but it’s clear it will be a five-seater. Cadillac has plans to introduce a larger crossover with third-row seats at some point to cater to customers with bigger families.
The XT5’s platform is believed to be an updated version of GM’s Theta architecture designed for compact and small crossovers. Like the outgoing SRX, the XT5 will straddle the gap between small and mid-size offerings of rivals.
MORE: GM Confirms New Vehicle For Orion Plant, Most Likely Cadillac Compact Crossover
What we do know is that production will be handled at General Motors Company’s [NYSE:GM] Spring Hill plant in Tennessee. The plant is currently responsible for Chevrolet’s Equinox, which is also Theta-based. The outgoing SRX is sourced from a plant in Mexico.
_______________________________________
