The Cadillac XT5 is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by General Motors under the Cadillac brand.
It entered production for the 2017 model year as a replacement for the Cadillac SRX and has continued through the 2026 model year.
This guide covers Cadillac XT5 towing capacity by model year and configuration, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight, hitch class, and tow package details.
Staying within manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, cooling system, and braking components from premature wear and failure.
Towing capacity on the XT5 varies depending on engine selection, drivetrain, trim level, and whether the optional Smart Towing Package is installed.
The 3.6L V6 with the tow package consistently provides the highest trailer weight rating across all model years.
Quick Navigation
2026 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 (227 hp); 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package; 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – 2.0L I4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Smart Towing Package – V92) |
The 2026 Cadillac XT5 carries a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when equipped with the 3.6L V6 engine and the Smart Towing Package. Four-cylinder models are limited to a 1,000 lb (454 kg) trailer weight rating regardless of drivetrain. The V6 configuration with the optional tow package provides the full Class III hitch rating for this model year.
2025 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 LSY (227 hp); 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package; 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – 2.0L I4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Smart Towing Package – V92) |
The 2025 Cadillac XT5 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when the V6 engine and Smart Towing Package are selected. Base Luxury trim models equipped with the turbocharged 2.0L I4 are limited to 1,000 lbs (454 kg) regardless of AWD fitment. These towing figures are identical to those of the 2024 model year.
2024 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 LSY (235 hp); 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package (V92); 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – 2.0L I4 or without V92 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Smart Towing Package – V92, available on Premium Luxury and Sport only) |
The 2024 Cadillac XT5 offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when fitted with the 3.6L V6 and Smart Towing Package on Premium Luxury or Sport trim. Base Luxury trim is not eligible for the tow package and is rated at 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all configurations. The Smart Towing Package (RPO V92) adds a hitch, seven-wire harness, Hitch Guidance, a 170-amp alternator, and a heavy-duty cooling system.
2023 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 LSY (235 hp); 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package (V92); 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – without V92 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Smart Towing Package – V92, available on Premium Luxury and Sport) |
The 2023 Cadillac XT5 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) on V6-equipped Premium Luxury and Sport trims with the Smart Towing Package installed. Without the package, all 2023 XT5 variants are limited to 1,000 lbs (454 kg) of trailer weight. The optional package includes Hitch Guidance with Hitch View, a seven-wire trailer harness, a 170-amp alternator on Premium Luxury, and a heavy-duty cooling system.
2022 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 LSY (235 hp); 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package; 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – 2.0L I4 or without tow package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Smart Towing Package – V92) |
The 2022 Cadillac XT5 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when paired with the 3.6L V6 and the Smart Towing Package. The turbocharged 2.0L I4 is rated at 1,000 lbs (454 kg) regardless of drivetrain or trim selection. Both engines connect to a nine-speed automatic transmission with FWD standard and AWD optional.
2021 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 LSY (237 hp); 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package; 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – 2.0L I4 or base without package |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 100 lbs (45 kg) without tow package; 350 lbs (159 kg) with tow package |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2021 Cadillac XT5 with the available 3.6L V6 and tow package achieves a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). The base 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, introduced as a new option for 2020, is limited to 1,000 lbs (454 kg) across all configurations. Without the tow package, tongue weight is limited to just 100 lbs (45 kg), underscoring the importance of the optional equipment for any meaningful towing use.
2020 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbocharged I4 LSY (237 hp) – new for 2020; 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) – V6 with tow package; 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – 2.0L I4 |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) without tow package |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) with tow package |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) with tow package |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2020 Cadillac XT5 marks the first model year to offer the turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine in the North American market. The V6 with the Smart Towing Package retains a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg), while the 2.0L I4 is rated at 1,000 lbs (454 kg). Models without the tow package installed are limited to 1,000 lbs regardless of engine selection.
2019 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2019 Cadillac XT5 is powered exclusively by the 3.6L V6 in the North American market and is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) when properly equipped. The tongue weight limit is 350 lbs (159 kg) with the weight-distributing hitch configuration. This was the final model year before the turbocharged four-cylinder engine was added to the North American lineup.
2018 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,001 lbs (2,722 kg) curb-based gross weight |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2018 Cadillac XT5 is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) with the weight-distributing hitch configuration and standard V6 powertrain. The 3.6L V6 produces 310 hp at 6,700 rpm and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Gross vehicle weight is listed at 6,001 lbs (2,722 kg) for this model year.
2017 Cadillac XT5 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.6L V6 LGX (310 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | N/A |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 9,485 lbs (4,302 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 350 lbs (159 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class III |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional |
The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is the first model year of the nameplate and is rated at a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) via weight-distributing hitch when properly equipped. The sole engine option for North America is the 3.6L V6, producing 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. A curb weight of approximately 3,985 lbs (1,807 kg) makes the 2017 XT5 capable of towing close to its own weight at the rated maximum.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Achieving the maximum trailer weight rating on any Cadillac XT5 requires more than selecting the correct engine. Proper equipment, hitch selection, and trailer preparation directly affect safety and drivetrain longevity.
Tow Package Components
The Cadillac Smart Towing Package (RPO V92) is required to reach the 3,500 lb towing limit on models where it is available. The package includes a factory hitch, hitch cover, seven-wire trailer harness, Hitch Guidance with Hitch View camera assist, a 170-amp high-output alternator (on applicable trims), and a heavy-duty cooling system. Without this package, all XT5 configurations from 2020 onward are limited to 1,000 lbs (454 kg).
Trailer Brake Controller
Any trailer exceeding 1,000 lbs (454 kg) gross trailer weight should be equipped with a dedicated braking system. A proportional trailer brake controller ensures that trailer brakes apply in proportion to vehicle deceleration, reducing stopping distances. This is especially important on downhill grades.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
The XT5’s tongue weight limit of 350 lbs (159 kg) applies to properly configured setups. A weight-distributing hitch redistributes tongue weight across all axles of the tow vehicle and trailer, improving stability and reducing rear-end squat. This type of hitch is particularly important when approaching the 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) trailer weight limit.
Transmission Cooler
The Smart Towing Package’s heavy-duty cooling system addresses heat buildup in the transmission and engine during sustained towing. Towing without adequate thermal management on the 3.6L V6 increases the risk of transmission overheating, particularly in high ambient temperatures or on mountainous terrain.
Tire Load Ratings
All four tires must meet or exceed the load index required for the combined weight of the vehicle, passengers, cargo, and tongue weight. Underinflated or load-mismatched tires reduce braking control and increase blowout risk during towing. Check the tire placard and owner’s manual for minimum load ratings before towing any trailer.
Trailer Sway Control
The Cadillac XT5 uses integrated StabiliTrak stability control, which provides a degree of trailer sway mitigation. For heavier trailers near the rated limit, an add-on sway control device provides an additional layer of stability management and is recommended when towing in crosswind conditions.
Normal vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Factor | Light Towing (under 1,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (1,500-3,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Tow Package Required | No | Yes (V92) |
| Engine Recommended | 2.0L I4 or 3.6L V6 | 3.6L V6 only |
| Trailer Brake Controller | Not required | Recommended |
| Weight-Distributing Hitch | Not required | Recommended |
| Heavy-Duty Cooling | Not required | Included with V92 |
| Tongue Weight Monitoring | Recommended | Mandatory |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Cadillac XT5?
The maximum towing capacity of the Cadillac XT5 is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). This rating applies to V6-equipped models from 2017 onward when the Smart Towing Package is installed. Models without the tow package are limited to 1,000 lbs (454 kg).
How much can a Cadillac XT5 tow with a tow package?
With the factory Smart Towing Package (RPO V92), the Cadillac XT5 is rated at the full 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) maximum trailer weight. This package is available only on Premium Luxury and Sport trim levels, not on the base Luxury trim. The package also upgrades the alternator and adds a heavy-duty cooling system to support sustained towing.
Does AWD affect Cadillac XT5 towing capacity?
AWD does not increase the rated maximum towing capacity on the Cadillac XT5. The 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) limit is determined by engine selection and tow package, not by drivetrain. Both FWD and AWD configurations share the same trailer weight ratings for a given engine and trim combination.
What trailer weight is safe for a Cadillac XT5?
Any trailer within the manufacturer-rated limit for the specific configuration is within the safety parameters. For V6 models with the Smart Towing Package, that limit is 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg). For all other configurations, the limit is 1,000 lbs (454 kg). Exceeding these limits increases braking distances and risks drivetrain damage.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Cadillac XT5?
A weight-distributing hitch is recommended when towing loads approaching the 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) maximum. The XT5’s Class III receiver hitch is rated to 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight. Weight distribution becomes critical for trailer stability when tongue weight exceeds approximately 10-15 percent of the total trailer weight.
Which XT5 engine provides the highest towing capacity?
The 3.6L V6 LGX engine is the only powertrain that supports the 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) towing capacity rating. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is limited to a maximum of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) regardless of trim, options, or drivetrain. The V6 produces 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque, which is the minimum performance threshold required for the Smart Towing Package installation.
Conclusion
The Cadillac XT5 towing capacity ranges from 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) depending on model year, engine, trim, and tow package configuration. V6-powered models from 2017 through 2026 consistently achieve the 3,500 lb (1,588 kg) maximum when the Smart Towing Package is installed. Four-cylinder models introduced for 2020 are rated at 1,000 lbs (454 kg) and cannot be upgraded to the higher towing limit through the addition of aftermarket equipment.
The Smart Towing Package is a mandatory factory option for maximum trailer weight ratings, and it is only available on Premium Luxury and Sport trim levels. Engine choice, transmission cooling capacity, and hitch class collectively determine safe towing limits for any given configuration.
Always verify towing specifications using the vehicle’s owner’s manual and the specific door-placard data before loading or towing.
