May 30, 2025
2025 Cadillac CT5 parked in an open area

When it comes to luxury sedans, the 2025 Cadillac CT5 and the 2025 Lexus ES stand out as two of the most sought-after choices in the mid-size segment. Both vehicles promise to elevate your driving experience, blending cutting-edge technology, refined comfort, and powerful performance into a sleek, elegant package. But which one is the better fit for you? Whether you’re navigating the streets of Walnut Valley, cruising through San Dimas, or making a statement in Diamond Bar, these sedans offer distinct advantages tailored to the discerning driver.

In this detailed comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences and similarities between the Cadillac CT5 and the Lexus ES, from their striking exterior designs to their advanced features and powerful performance options. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of which luxury sedan is right for you. Ready to experience these vehicles in person? Visit Crestview Cadillac today or contact us to schedule a test drive and get a closer look at what makes the Cadillac CT5 a standout choice. Let’s get started!

The Mid-Size Luxury Sedan Market: Cadillac CT5 and Lexus ES Overview

The mid-size luxury sedan market is all about blending style, performance, and comfort into a refined package. Two vehicles that capture this balance perfectly are the 2025 Cadillac CT5 and the 2025 Lexus ES. Both sedans offer sophisticated design, premium interiors, and cutting-edge technology, making them favorites among drivers who seek luxury without compromising on performance. But each brings its own unique flair to the table.

FeatureCadillac CT5Lexus ES
Engine Options‣ 2.0L Turbocharged I4
‣ 3.0L Twin-turbo V6
‣ 2.5L I4
‣ 3.5L V6
Horsepower‣ 237 hp (2.0L I4)
‣ 335 hp (3.0L V6)
‣ 203 hp (2.5L I4)
‣ 302 hp (3.5L V6)
Technology33-inch LED display, Super CruiseLexus Interface, Mark Levinson audio
Interior MaterialsPremium leather, customizable seatsSemi-aniline leather, wood trim
Safety FeaturesStandard driver assistance techLexus Safety System+ 2.5

The Cadillac CT5 is ideal for those looking for more performance-oriented options, especially with the available V-Series models. It’s perfect for drivers in Walnut Valley, San Dimas, or Diamond Bar who want to make a bold statement on the road. The Lexus ES, on the other hand, is better suited for those who prioritize comfort and serenity in their driving experience.

Cadillac CT5: A Modern Luxury Experience

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 is a standout in the luxury sedan category. It offers a dynamic mix of advanced technology, bold performance, and an eye-catching design. With its refined V6 and turbocharged engine options, it delivers power when you need it while maintaining a smooth, quiet ride.

Key Features of the Cadillac CT5:

  • Powerful Engine Options: Choose from a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder or a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering up to 335 horsepower.
  • Advanced Technology: The 33-inch LED display with Google built-in and available Super Cruise technology provide a seamless driving experience.
  • Comfort and Luxury: Premium materials and customizable seating options like heated, massaging, and ventilated seats ensure comfort during long drives.
  • Sporty and Refined: With available V-Series models, the Cadillac CT5 gives a nod to performance, offering enhanced handling and a more aggressive design.

Lexus ES: A Legacy of Elegance and Comfort

On the other side, the 2025 Lexus ES is designed to deliver comfort and sophistication with a focus on refinement. Lexus has built its reputation on offering smooth, quiet rides paired with luxurious interiors. The ES line is no exception, with its distinctive grille, sleek profile, and a suite of safety features that come standard.

Key Features of the Lexus ES:

  • Multiple Trim Options: The ES offers different trim levels, including hybrid and F SPORT models, so you can choose the one that fits your style and performance needs.
  • Smooth Ride and Handling: Known for its refined suspension system, the ES offers a smooth, quiet ride ideal for daily commutes and long-distance travel.
  • Innovative Tech: The Lexus Interface system and available Mark Levinson sound system enhance the in-car experience, keeping you connected and entertained.
  • Luxurious Interior: Premium materials like semi-aniline leather, available 14-way power-adjustable seats, and open-pore wood trim elevate the cabin’s comfort.

Both are top-tier sedans, but choosing between the Cadillac CT5 vs Lexus ES comes down to what matters most to you: power and performance or a smooth, luxurious ride.

Exterior Design: CT5 vs Lexus ES

FeatureCadillac CT5Lexus ES
GrilleBold gloss black with chromeSignature spindle grille
HeadlightsVertical LED lightingSmooth, sleek LED lights
Body LinesAerodynamic with sharp edgesFluid, coupe-like silhouette
Wheels18- to 19-inch alloys17- to 19-inch alloys
Sporty FeaturesV-Series adds bold detailsF SPORT trim adds sporty accents
FinishModern metallic finishesChrome accents for elegance

Cadillac CT5: Bold and Athletic

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 features a bold design with a gloss black grille, sharp lines, and vertical LED lighting. Its modern, athletic stance demands attention on any road.

Key Features:

  • Gloss black grille with chrome accents
  • Aerodynamic curves and sharp lines
  • Vertical LED headlights

The CT5 is perfect for those seeking a high-performance, eye-catching sedan.

Lexus ES: Elegant and Refined

The 2025 Lexus ES is all about refined elegance, with smooth lines and a signature spindle grille. It offers a quieter, more sophisticated presence.

Key Features:

  • Signature spindle grille
  • Fluid, coupe-like silhouette
  • Sleek LED lighting with subtle chrome accents

The Lexus ES appeals to those who prefer classic, understated luxury.

Interior Comfort and Luxury: Cabin Features Comparison

FeatureCadillac CT5Lexus ES
SeatingLeather, massaging, ventilated seatsSemi-aniline leather, heated/ventilated seats
Tech Screen33-inch LED curved touchscreen12.3-inch Lexus Interface screen
Sound SystemAvailable AKG Studio audioAvailable Mark Levinson® audio
LegroomSpacious front and rear seatsGenerous front and rear legroom
Driver AssistanceSuper Cruise hands-free drivingLexus Safety System+
Ride QualityAthletic with advanced suspensionSmooth, quiet with noise-canceling features

Cadillac CT5: A High-Tech and Luxurious Cabin

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offers a spacious, tech-rich interior with premium materials and advanced features, ensuring comfort and convenience for all passengers.

Key Features:

  • Leather, massaging, and ventilated seats
  • 33-inch curved LED touchscreen with Google services
  • Available AKG Studio audio
  • Super Cruise for hands-free driving

The CT5 blends technology and comfort for those seeking a luxurious and forward-thinking cabin.

Lexus ES: A Calm and Refined Cabin

The Lexus ES offers a serene and refined atmosphere with soft-touch materials and a quiet cabin, ideal for long, peaceful drives.

Key Features:

  • Semi-aniline leather seats
  • 12.3-inch touchscreen with Lexus Interface
  • Mark Levinson® audio
  • Lexus Safety System+

The ES focuses on comfort and quiet luxury, perfect for those who value relaxation.

Performance and Handling: Driving Dynamics of the CT5 vs ES

FeatureCadillac CT5Lexus ES
Engine Options2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, 3.0L twin-turbo V62.5L 4-cylinder, 3.5L V6
HorsepowerUp to 335 hpUp to 302 hp
SuspensionMagnetic Ride ControlAdaptive Variable Suspension
Driving FocusSporty and dynamicSmooth and comfortable
HandlingPrecise and responsiveComfortable and calm

Cadillac CT5: Power and Precision

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 delivers a dynamic driving experience with powerful engine options and agile handling, offering both performance and comfort.

Key Features:

  • Engine Options: 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, 3.0L twin-turbo V6
  • Horsepower: Up to 335 hp
  • Magnetic Ride Control suspension for smooth, responsive handling

The CT5 is perfect for those seeking power and sporty handling.

Lexus ES: Smooth and Steady

The Lexus ES focuses on comfort, offering a refined and smooth ride. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a relaxing, quiet driving experience.

Key Features:

  • Engine Options: 2.5L 4-cylinder, 3.5L V6
  • Horsepower: Up to 302 hp
  • Adaptive Variable Suspension for a comfortable ride

The ES is built for those who prefer a calm, composed driving experience.

Technology and Infotainment: Next-Generation Features

FeatureCadillac CT5Lexus ES
Infotainment SystemGoogle Built-In, 33-inch LED DisplayLexus Interface, 8.0-inch Touchscreen
Audio SystemAKG Premium AudioMark Levinson Audio (optional)
ConnectivityWireless Apple CarPlay, Android AutoWireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Driver AssistanceSuper Cruise (hands-free driving)Lexus Safety System+ 2.5
NavigationGoogle Maps integrationLexus Navigation

Cadillac CT5: Cutting-Edge Connectivity

The Cadillac CT5 offers advanced tech that elevates your driving experience, from seamless connectivity to safety features.

Key Tech Features:

  • Google Built-In for personalized driving
  • 33-inch LED Display for unified control
  • Super Cruise for hands-free highway driving
  • AKG Audio System for premium sound
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

The CT5 is all about modern convenience and top-tier technology.

Lexus ES: Seamless and Intuitive Technology

The Lexus ES focuses on user-friendly tech and safety. It offers an intuitive infotainment system with easy access to all features.

Key Tech Features:

  • Lexus Interface multimedia system
  • 8.0-inch Touchscreen for clear visibility
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Mark Levinson Audio (optional for premium sound)
  • Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 for enhanced safety

The ES is designed for drivers who value simplicity and peace of mind.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Protecting What Matters Most

FeatureCadillac CT5Lexus ES
Driver Assistance SuiteSuper Cruise, Forward Collision AlertLexus Safety System+ 2.5, Lane Departure
Blind Spot DetectionRear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keep AssistBlind Spot Monitor, Lane Tracing Assist
Collision PreventionAutomatic Emergency BrakingPre-Collision System
Cruise ControlAdaptive Cruise ControlDynamic Radar Cruise Control
Parking AssistanceFront and Rear SensorsRear Cross Traffic Alert

Cadillac CT5: Comprehensive Safety Suite

The Cadillac CT5 offers advanced safety features to enhance protection and convenience on every drive.

Key Safety Features:

  • Super Cruise: Hands-free driving on select highways
  • Forward Collision Alert: Warns of potential front-end collisions
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Applies brakes to reduce impact
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Alerts to approaching vehicles while reversing
  • Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the car back into its lane

Lexus ES: Safety with Confidence

The Lexus ES comes with a suite of safety features designed to keep you and your passengers safe.

Key Safety Features:

  • Lexus Safety System+ 2.5: Includes Pre-Collision System and Lane Departure Alert
  • Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Maintains safe distance from other vehicles
  • Blind Spot Monitor: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot
  • Lane Tracing Assist: Helps keep the car centered in its lane
  • Road Sign Assist: Displays important road signs

Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness: Efficiency at Its Best

ModelCity MPGHighway MPG
Cadillac CT5 (2.0L Turbo)23 MPG33 MPG
Cadillac CT5 (3.0L V6)19 MPG27 MPG
Lexus ES (2.5L I4)25 MPG34 MPG
Lexus ES (3.5L V6)22 MPG32 MPG

Cadillac CT5: Balanced Power and Efficiency

The CT5 gives buyers a choice: go with the 2.0L turbocharged engine for better mileage, or upgrade to the more powerful 3.0L twin-turbo V6 for increased performance.

  • The 2.0L Turbo is a strong contender in its class, offering up to 33 MPG on the highway without sacrificing the responsive feel Cadillac drivers expect.
  • If you’re after more horsepower, the 3.0L V6 still delivers respectable fuel economy, especially given its performance capabilities—perfect for drivers who want more punch without jumping to a full performance model.

The CT5’s fuel efficiency is right in line with what you’d expect from a luxury sedan, and it’s designed to make your daily drive enjoyable while keeping fuel costs in check.

Lexus ES: Slight Edge on Paper, Less on the Road

The Lexus ES offers slightly higher EPA ratings on both engine options—but there’s more to the story than the numbers.

  • The 2.5L inline-4 does achieve 25 city / 34 highway MPG, which makes it a top choice if your top priority is fuel savings.
  • The 3.5L V6, while still efficient, delivers 22 city / 32 highway MPG, giving it only a modest advantage over Cadillac’s larger engine.

However, where the ES gains in MPG, it can sometimes lose in driver engagement and refinement. The CT5’s ride quality and transmission tuning strike a better balance between performance and practicality—especially for drivers who want more than just economy.

Real-World Insights: What Matters Most

While the Lexus ES might win the MPG race by a small margin on paper, the Cadillac CT5 holds its own with a more performance-oriented personality and strong fuel efficiency to match. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • If fuel economy is your #1 concern, the Lexus ES 2.5L edges ahead slightly.
  • If you’re looking for a more refined, responsive drive with competitive MPG, the CT5—especially with the 2.0L turbo—is right on target.
  • And if you want power without drastically compromising mileage, the CT5’s 3.0L V6 is a standout option.

The Bottom Line

Choosing between the Cadillac CT5 and Lexus ES for fuel economy isn’t just about numbers—it’s about what those numbers support. The CT5 offers a smart balance of efficiency, power, and luxury, making it an ideal companion whether you’re navigating daily commutes or planning longer drives.

At Crestview Cadillac, we believe that luxury shouldn’t mean compromise. With the 2025 CT5, you get a sedan that respects your time, your budget, and your love for the open road—all in one stylish package.

FAQs: 2025 Cadillac CT5 vs Lexus ES

Which luxury sedan is faster?

The Cadillac CT5, with its available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine, can reach 0-60 mph in around 4.6 seconds. This makes it quicker than the Lexus ES, which has a 0-60 mph time of about 8.6 seconds with its standard engine on the ES 250.

Which sedan has a more luxurious interior?

Both the Cadillac CT5 and Lexus ES offer luxurious interiors, but the Cadillac CT5 stands out with its premium materials, customizable seating, and advanced technology options, giving it a more opulent feel overall.

Which sedan has a better safety rating?

Both sedans are equipped with a variety of standard safety features. However, the Lexus ES has earned higher safety scores in many categories, particularly from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), often receiving Top Safety Pick+ awards. The Cadillac CT5, while highly rated, does not match the Lexus ES’s scores.

Which sedan offers more customization options?

The Cadillac CT5 offers more options for customization, with multiple engine choices, various trims, and an extensive list of available features and packages. The Lexus ES offers fewer options, primarily focusing on different trim levels and the hybrid model.

Explore the 2025 Cadillac CT5 at Crestview Cadillac

As you explore the luxury sedan market, Crestview Cadillac invites drivers from Walnut Valley, San Dimas, and Diamond Bar to visit us and experience the 2025 Cadillac CT5 for yourself. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect vehicle to suit your lifestyle and preferences.

While you’re here, feel free to browse through our wide selection of vehicles. Whether you’re interested in a stylish sedan like the CT5 or a powerful SUV, we have something for everyone. If you’re curious about other Cadillac models, check out our comparison between the 2025 Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Tahoe. You can also learn more about the top speeds of the 2025 Cadillac lineup or discover how to make the most of your key fob commands.

Visit us today or contact us to schedule a test drive. We look forward to helping you find the perfect vehicle that fits your needs.