Debuting just two years ago, it sits on a car-like framework but with all the bells and whistles you would find among competitors such as the Audi Q3 or the Volvo XC40. The 2022 Cadillac XT4 is packed with ample power, oodles of it, and luxury that only a Cadillac can deliver.
Under the hood resides a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine that cranks out 235 horsepower @ 5000 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque @ 4000 rpm. The front-wheel-drive SUV is mated to a seamless 9-speed auto gearbox. A MacPherson strut front and a five-link independent rear work well to absorb unpleasant road bumps or curves.
Steering response with the electric power rack-and-pinion is swift and accurate. Tow capacity is a satisfactory 3,500 pounds. And you can pick tour, sport and snow/ice drive modes.
Bright Galvano accents on the front grille, satin-aluminum window moldings and chromed door handles lend the compact XT4 a classy appearance. Vertical L-shaped LED headlights and tail lamps further enhance the bold look. The crossover boasts an upscale and luxurious interior with exceptional fit and finish, gloss levels and materials.
An 8-inch color touchscreen in the center stack includes capactive controls, haptic feedback, gestures and voice recognition (yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard). The rotary dial controller with a jog function is easy to operate. There is plenty of room – 48.9 cubic feet with rear seat folded; and total passenger volume is a worthy 100.6 cubic feet. Standard goodies are dual auto a/c, eight-way power driver and six-way front-passenger heated seats, manual tilt/telescopic three-spoke steering wheel ambient lights, piano black accents on the gear shifter, satin aluminum roof rails, 7-speaker Bose audio, remote start, 60/40 rear seat and hands-free lift gate.
Dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes, forward-collision alert, front/rear park assist, stability and traction control, rearview camera, auto emergency brakes, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard. We suggest going for the $200 safety alert package for its lane change/side blind zone/rear-cross traffic alerts for that extra protection.
Accommodating five people in luxury, the XT4 is difficult to beat if you consider performance, significant cargo capacity, notable fuel economy and a fair price. Rivals in the crossover segment should be watchful of this highly competent and pleasant ride.
XT4 PREMIUM LUXURY (AWD)
Tires: P235/60R18 all-season
Wheelbase: 109.4 inches
Length: 181.1 inches
Width: 83.5 inches
Height: 64.1 inches
Fuel capacity: 16.3 gallons
City: 22 mpg
Highway: 29 mpg
Weight: 3,691 pounds
Base price: $42,095
Price as tested: $55,470
Web site: www.cadillac.com