Road Test: 2019 Cadillac XT4
Story by Jordan Allan, photos courtesy of Cadillac Canada
Specifications:
Price: $34,400 (MSRP)
Engine: 2.0L turbocharged 16-valve DOHC I4
Trans: Hydra-Matic nine-speed auto
Power: 237 hp@ 5,000 rpm
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,000 rpm
Curb Weight: 1,767 lbs./ 3,896 kg
Fuel Consumption: (L/100km – City/Hwy) 10.2/8.2
New for 2019: The Cadillac XT4 is an all-new vehicle and is Cadillac’s first entry into the increasingly popular compact-luxury-crossover market. It shares the same look as the larger XT5 crossover and offers all of the technology and safety features you’d expect from a Cadillac in a sharp-looking, fun-to-drive package.
Segment Competitors: BMW X2, Volvo XC40, Land Rover Ranger Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, Lexus NX, Jaguar E-Pace, Infiniti QX30, BMW X1, Lexus NX
The Skinny: Cadillac is one of the last luxury automotive manufacturers to venture into the compact-luxury-crossover segment and will look to make a big splash in hopes of luring potential buyers away from their more established competition.
On the exterior appearance side of things, Cadillac have done quite well and produced a nice, contemporary looking crossover that bears Cadillac’s current design theme with bold lines and an all-around nice look. Having always been a fan of Cadillac’s interior designs, the XT4 has got that right as well with simple interior that looks to be made of upscale materials and a sense of functionality that can sometimes be lost with all of the technology and features available today. All models of the XT4 feature an 8-in. infotainment system with Cadillac’s CUE software which is incredibly easy to use and situated nicely within the dash. It can be controlled simply using touch or using the rotary dial located behind the volume knob which is located behind the shifter.
The driving position is comfortable, the sightlines are good and back seats offer quite a bit of room for a vehicle in this class. The rear cargo area is larger than it appears and was able to hold two full-size hockey bags by utilizing the 60/40 split rear seats.
Driving the XT4 was a pleasant experience although not one that will knock you off your feet with precise handling or amazing acceleration. The turbocharged 2.0L engine is very smooth and is paired well to the 9-speed auto transmission and although I wouldn’t say the handling is incredible, that’s not to say that it isn’t more than adequate.
Pros: Although things can quickly climb from the MSRP of $34,400 with the addition of options, there is some real value to be found with the XT4.
Cons: Although it’s clearly not a huge issue, I always have a hard time adjusting to volume knobs or radio control situated in front of the centre console.
The Verdict: The Cadillac name still carries a lot of prestige so when they come out with a new vehicle, it’s always worth looking into. Given the way the automotive market is currently trending, it’s no surprise to see them enter this segment as many have before them and it’s also no surprise to find that they have done quite well in doing so. The XT4 is versatille, roomy, classy and offers good value when compared to some of its competitors.
