Cadillac is really becoming a contender and competitor again. Its line of of cars will challenge the usual SUV suspects and sedans and puts the brand up to the front of the line for those considering a new car. A case in point is the XT4, a delightful subcompact crossover with lots of technology, safety features and style.
The SUV comes in three distinct trims, which range from $34,795 to $39,200. Of course, the lowest price trim, aptly named “Luxury” features LED headlamps and tail lamps, rear park assist and HD Rear Vision camera. Go to the top of the line, and you’re getting hands-free lift gate, gloss-black finish front grille, side window surround and roof rails, and carbon-fiber or wood interior decor. This car is packed with features, and that’s the just the start of what’s great about this car.
New for this year is automated emergency braking, forward-collision warning, front pedestrian detection and a safety seat alert, all needed across the line.
Let’s talk power. The XT4 delivers a 2.0 turbo charged four-cylinder turbo charged engine with 258 lb-ft of with 237 horsepower. That’s plenty of power to use on city streets, highways and in the country. The powertrain is full of pep, and overall the SUV offers a smooth ride and stable handling. All wheel drive, Tour, Snow/Ice and Sport drive modes are all standard.
Fuel economy ranges with 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
I ride shotgun, so I view this car as the perfect one for a long-distance drive. The seats are first-class; I mean who doesn’t want a massage while in the car? I felt better riding around than I did sitting in my chair at home! There’s plenty of leg room, including for back seat passengers (and vented front seats on the Premium, Luxury and Sport models). For those riding in the back, there’s 39.5 inches of legroom, the best in class. There is also lots of room for cargo. In fact, with its 22.5 cubic feet of cargo space, it boasts one of the largest cargo areas in its class. Folding the seats in a 60/40 position boosts it even more with 48.9 cubic feet of space.
It was easy from the front passenger seat to reach the 8-inch infotainment center screen with embedded navigation. We loved the dual-zone automatic climate control since my driver loves it hot and I tend toward a cooler environment. While the driver has an eight-way power-adjustable seat, the front passenger is still comfortable with a six-way power-adjustable front seat.
Family arguments will be avoided with the four USB ports: two in the center console and two for the rear seat folks. And, of course, the standard Bose Center point Surround Sound 13-speaker system makes any trip a virtual concert.
The Cadillac XT4 should be considered when looking at a reasonably priced subcompact crossover. It’s definitely a contender.