Drive Time – 2024 Cadillac XT4 AWD Sport
Let’s face it; there’s no shortage of options to ponder in the popular SUV/Crossover categories. The higher stance allows for easier entering and exiting, especially as we age. Added storage and roomier passenger space add to the allure. Finally, manufacturers got wise that consumers want to drive a vehicle that has a bit of pizazz to the exterior rather than a nondescript box.
Cadillac’s smallest SUV is the XT4, categorized as a luxury subcompact. Debuting in 2018, the XT4 has grown in popularity. The 2024 version delivers a subtle exterior refresh and major tech upgrade. Combining its excellent safety ratings, attractiveness, excellent rear seat room, storage, technology and luxury appointments make it worthy to consider, especially at a reasonable price point.
My AWD Sport is the priciest option compared to the Luxury and Premium Luxury models.
Skin
Cadillac designers continue to offer handsome SUV silhouettes. The 2024 XT4 boasts a new, sexy black-mesh front grille and reworked LED headlights/taillights, giving the ride a more robust presence. In fact, it looks terrific from any angle, especially when adorned in the ravishing Radiant Red Tintcoat (worth the $1,225 upgrade) and sweet 20” Dynamic Cut Dark Android finish wheels. My tester had the optional higher profile black roof rack, but I preferred the sleeker low-profile rails to give the XT4 a more streamlined profile.
Performance
The 2024 XT4 AWD Sport drives in 2WD or AWD modes. A 2.0-liter, turbo inline-four cylinder delivers a decent 235 hp/258 lb-ft torque. It won’t blow you away but has enough spunk (in Sport mode) to whisk around trouble. 0-60 in 7.3 seconds.
Sport mode was my favorite selection, although it starts in 2WD. It tightens the 9-gear transmission shifts, alters the twin-clutch AWD to sharpen turns and heightens the exhaust note. Switching from 2WD to the AWD’s Stabilitrak-Stability and traction control is a breeze pressing the mode button. I found the ride pleasant and confident when barreling into onramps. The exhaust note perks up when mashing the pedal. It’s also a great cruiser in Comfort mode for trips.
The brakes are category-leading, stopping in only 109 feet at 60mph with no fade and laser-straight tracking. Gas mileage is listed at 23/28. I observed about 24ish during spirited travels.
That said, Cadillac please listen up! I firmly believe the XT4 would be an exhilarating option if Caddy decision – makers added their already tingling performance package V-line for more oomph, handling and delicious sporty exhaust rumbles. C’mon, just do it!
Cabin
The spacious interior is a welcome surprise for Cadillac’s smallest SUV. Fit and finish are outstanding. The Jet-Black with blue accent seats is eye-catching. The “design innovation” includes lovely embroidery on the dash, cutouts with cool graphics and the lack of hard plastic on or above the armrests – a rarity in the subcompact SUV category.
You sit higher in the supportive power leather front seats. They are heated/ventilated with adjustable lumbar, side bolstering and lumbar massage – a welcome gift after a long day on the course ($2,350). The handy Cold Weather Package ($850) heats the front and rear seats and the steering wheel.
The rear-seat legroom is generous and best-in-class with plenty of feet room under the front seats. There are plenty of USB-C ports to keep your tech toys juiced.
Another star addition this year is borrowing the Lyriq’s vast 33-inch curved 9K resolution OLED infotainment touchscreen within easy reach for the driver and accessed by either touch, via voice command or rotary push-knob on the console. It’s truly impressive for a subcompact interior and price point.
A generous double-panoramic roof with power sunshade brightens the cabin. Driver visibility is terrific with the optional Rear Camera Mirror bypassing any sight obstacles in the rear to provide three-lane wide rear views. Cargo capacity is again category-leading; 23 cu. ft with the second row up and 49 cu. ft with the seats folded. The power liftgate is handsfree.
Tech Check
Cadillac went all-out in the tech department. Along with the superb 33” OLED touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the responsive Google Assistant concierge software is standard. Choose the worthy Technology Package ($1,650) to receive Head Up Display, handy Rear Camera Mirror, power-tilt steering wheel and wireless phone charging. Although I’m surprised, they didn’t offer the handy overhead 360-degree camera for parking.
The standard audio system is probably okay for most consumers, but look at the ($875) optional AKG 13-speaker Surround System that delivers exquisite studio quality audio.
Safety features abound with automatic Forward Collision, Lane Departure, Blind Spot, Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection and Rear Cross Traffic warnings.
The 2024 Cadillac XT4 AWD Sport is a desirable package of eye-candy, luxury and eye-popping technology (including Cadillac’s Premium Care Maintenance 3 years/36,000 miles). The base price of $37,290 for the Luxury, $40,385 for Premium Luxury and $41,653 for Sport are a steal to comparable models. Bottom line is the XT4 is worthy of your time when contemplating a superb luxury subcompact SUV to cruise or eat up miles of asphalt.
Test-drive the 2024 Cadillac XT4 AWD Sport at Crest Cars in Frisco.
SCORECARD
Golf Bags: At least four
Curb Appeal: A uniquely attractive head turner
0-60: 7.3 seconds.
Gas Mileage: 23/28. Observed 24ish in spirited driving
Must-Haves: Comfort & Convenience, Technology and Cold Weather packages
Warranty & Free Maintenance: 48 mo/50,000 miles warranty; 3/36K maintenance.
Base Price: $44,495 with optional Radiant Red Tintcoat paint
Price as Tested: $55,035
Who Buys It? Families migrating from sedans to SUV storage capabilities
Finish Line: Excellent combo of looks, luxury, tech and safety