Introduction
The luxury SUV market is an ever-evolving landscape, with consumers expecting not only premium features but also outstanding performance and style. Cadillac, known for its luxurious Escalade, ventured into the subcompact luxury SUV segment with the 2024 XT4. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve deep into the details of this offering from Cadillac, analyzing its design, performance, interior, technology, safety features, and more.
Exterior Design: A Sharp and Upscale Presence
The 2024 Cadillac XT4 makes a striking first impression with its sharp exterior design. The updated front fascia and reworked LED lighting elements give it a contemporary and upscale look. These changes draw inspiration from Cadillac’s larger XT6 SUV and the bold Lyriq electric SUV, resulting in a face that’s both distinctive and attractive. The new wheel designs and tweaks to the rear end further enhance its overall appeal.
Compared to its rivals like the Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA250, the XT4 stands out with its elegant and upscale appearance. It successfully combines a touch of Cadillac’s luxury DNA with a modern, eye-catching design.
Interior Comfort and Space: Roomy but Not Without Flaws
Stepping inside the XT4 reveals a spacious cabin that offers comfort to both front and rear-seat occupants. However, it’s important to note that while the interior is comfortable, it falls short of the premium experience expected in this segment. The dashboard and upper door panels are wrapped in a stitched faux-leather material, exuding a sense of luxury. However, lower on the doors and center console, you’ll find cheaper, sharp-edged plastic, which detracts from the overall ambience.
While the interior quality may not match some of its key rivals, the XT4 does excel in terms of space. Front-seat passengers will find plenty of room, and the back seat is decently spacious, ensuring comfort for all passengers. Cargo space is also a strong suit for the XT4, with the ability to accommodate a significant amount of luggage.
Performance and Handling: A Boulevard Cruiser
Under the hood of all XT4 models is a 235-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While this powertrain provides adequate performance for everyday driving, it doesn’t deliver the refined and spirited experience offered by some of its competitors. The XT4’s acceleration to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds is adequate but not exceptional.
In terms of handling, the XT4 leans more towards being a boulevard cruiser than a sporty SUV. The ride is comfortable on smooth roads, but it struggles on rough surfaces, transmitting vibrations and sharp impacts into the cabin, especially with the optional 20-inch wheels. The steering lacks the precision and feedback expected in a luxury vehicle, making it less engaging to drive on twisty roads.
Infotainment and Connectivity: Modern and Well-Equipped
One area where the 2024 XT4 shines is its infotainment and connectivity features. All XT4 models come with a 33.0-inch infotainment system that stretches across a significant portion of the dashboard. This system is based on Google’s Android Automotive software, providing a modern and intuitive user experience. Wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, ensuring seamless integration with your smartphone.
The touchscreen interface is complemented by a console-mounted knob for added convenience. In addition to the standard seven-speaker stereo system and in-dash navigation, buyers can opt for a premium 13-speaker AKG stereo system for an enhanced audio experience. The XT4 also boasts an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot with 5G connectivity, keeping passengers connected on the go.
Safety Features: Comprehensive, but Not All Standard
Cadillac offers a range of driver-assistance features for the XT4, but it’s important to note that not all of them come as standard equipment. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, as well as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. For those seeking advanced safety technologies, adaptive cruise control is available as an option.
To assess the XT4’s safety performance, you can refer to crash test results from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Pricing and Models: Choosing the Right Trim
The 2024 Cadillac XT4 is available in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport. Pricing starts at $39,090 for the base Luxury model. The Premium Luxury and Sport models are priced slightly higher at $42,690 and $43,190, respectively. When choosing the right trim, it’s essential to consider your priorities.
If you’re looking for a more engaging driving experience, the XT4 Sport is the way to go. It features unique wheel designs, blacked-out exterior trim, and exclusive interior accents. The Sport model also comes equipped with a suspension featuring adaptive dampers and better-bolstered front seats, enhancing both comfort and performance.
Fuel Economy: Meeting Expectations
In terms of fuel efficiency, the XT4 delivers respectable numbers. Front-wheel-drive variants achieve up to 30 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive models, which are slightly less efficient, manage 27 mpg on the highway. While these figures are competitive within the segment, real-world mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and habits.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage: Cadillac’s Commitment
Cadillac provides a strong warranty package for the XT4, giving buyers peace of mind. The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty extends to six years or 70,000 miles. Additionally, Cadillac offers one complimentary maintenance visit for the 2023 model year, showing its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Verdict: A Practical Choice with Some Shortcomings
In conclusion, the 2024 Cadillac XT4 offers an attractive and spacious package in the subcompact luxury SUV segment. Its exterior design is sharp and upscale, and the cabin provides ample space for passengers and cargo. The infotainment and connectivity features are modern and well-equipped, enhancing the overall driving experience.
However, the XT4 falls short in certain areas. Its performance, while adequate, lacks the refinement and athleticism found in some competitors. The ride quality can be compromised on rough roads, and the steering doesn’t provide the desired level of feedback. Additionally, the interior, while comfortable, doesn’t fully meet the premium standards of the segment.
Ultimately, the 2024 Cadillac XT4 is a practical choice with high-end curb appeal, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and stylish subcompact luxury SUV. However, it doesn’t quite deliver the level of luxury expected in this class, and buyers should consider their priorities and preferences when evaluating this offering from Cadillac.
