Used 2021 Cadillac XT4

The 2021 Cadillac XT4 is a small-ish premium-crossover SUV. We say “ish” because it’s not as big as the compact Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, for example, but slightly larger than the subcompact Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

This splitting of niches at least gives the XT4 an attribute that might make it more compelling, although the latest generation of Audi Q3 is bigger than its predecessor. And Mercedes-Benz now has the GLB-Class.

As well as size, the 2021 XT4 sits between price brackets as well. Which is part of Cadillac’s overall appeal. The company’s creations come with plenty of equipment, excellent suspensions, and what might be considered attractive looks at a lower cost than a comparable German rival.

The ride quality of the 2021 XT4 is really good for the class. The turbocharged engine’s maximum thrust chimes in from just above idle right up to 4,000 rpm, with plenty of punch remaining for another 1,000 rpm beyond that. Zipping away from standstill, darting through traffic, and overtaking are all made more enjoyable by the presence of a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission.

With the optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the driver can toggle through four settings: Touring (where drive goes just to the front wheels), AWD (on demand), Off Road (AWD), and Sport (full-time AWD with sharper changes to transmission shift points, steering feel and the optional Active Sport Suspension).

On tricky surfaces in the AWD modes, close to 100 percent of available torque can be sent to the wheel (or wheels) with the best traction. Front-drive versions of this little Caddy crossover SUV offer a 3-mode setup that includes a Sport setting.

The brakes bite early, but their action quickly becomes second nature. Steering response is rewarding (especially in Sport mode), and the vehicle’s weight has no problem keeping up with quick changes of direction. As a parking and U-turn bonus, the XT4 is capable of turning in a tidy 38-foot-diameter circle.

The cabin design of the XT4 is businesslike rather than indulgent or adventurous. That’s cool. The front seats are supportive without being too firm or constricting, and the driving position is excellent, even for taller drivers. The outward view is also good, making it easy to change lanes, maneuver through tangled big-city traffic, and park without ever having to wonder where the vehicle’s corners are.

Rear-passenger space can accommodate 6-foot-plus adults as long as the occupants up front don’t need to slide their seats all the way back. Behind these rear seats, cargo space is a roomy 22.5 cubic feet. Fold them down flat to create an area of 48.9 cubic feet.

The Cadillac User Experience infotainment system has an 8-inch high-definition touchscreen and a controller knob on the center console that makes it easy to navigate audio, phone, navigation (if fitted), and other functions. Two USB ports come as standard: one Type-A, one Type-C.

The challenge was to translate Cadillac’s design language (which works arguably well with the company’s sedans) onto a small(ish) crossover SUV. The Cadillac XT4 has as much upscale presence as it can muster for its size.

The signature-style headlight and taillight treatments (including Cadillac Easter eggs within both, and clear taillight lenses on the XT4 Sport models) are probably the most interesting aspects. The most practical exterior styling move comes from the grille, which contributes to efficient cooling and a 3,500-pound towing capacity.

DRIVETRAIN SYNERGY
Sometimes, all the propulsion hardware comes together in a particularly pleasing way: the amount and delivery of power, the sweet transmission, and the all-wheel-drive system (when selected, which we recommend in this instance). The Cadillac XT4 is one of those times.

STRUCTURAL SYNERGY
And sometimes all the other major aspects harmonize as well. For example, the XT4’s excellent suspension (made possible in part by a super-rigid body structure) is confidence-inspiring on twisting roads, tranquil over fresh tarmac, and unfazed by rough surfaces.

Entry-level 2021 XT4 models come with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights/daytime running lights/taillights, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, rear parking sensors, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat/6-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, simulated leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, selectable driving modes, powered tailgate, Wi-Fi, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, plus forward-collision mitigation with pedestrian detection and a Safety Alert Seat.

However, we recommend considering at least the XT4 in Premium Luxury trim, which adds hands-free tailgate operation, roof rails, self-dimming mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, front parking sensors, and ambient cabin lighting. After that, it depends on how much each buyer wishes to spend.

All versions of the 2021 XT4 are eligible for all-wheel drive, 20-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, navigation, Bose audio upgrade, rear-seat DVD system, trailer package, plus a Cold Weather package that includes front/rear (outboard) heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

Premium Luxury and Sport models may also be ordered with an Enhanced Visibility Package (rearview camera mirror, 360-degree camera system, and self-parking), leather seating surfaces, massaging front seats, a head-up display, power-adjustable steering column, wireless charging, and a Driver Assist package (including forward/reverse automatic braking and adaptive cruise control).

Sport trim offers an Active Sport Suspension that continuously monitors road conditions and can make 500 damping adjustments every second.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine motivates the Cadillac XT4 with a respectable 237 horsepower (the BMW X1 has 228), while the 9-speed automatic transmission supplies a useful spread of ratios. First gear is short for easy parking-lot maneuvers and moving quickly off the line, while top gear keeps the engine speed low on freeways, resulting in impressive fuel consumption. Premium gasoline is recommended.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
237 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500-4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/30 mpg (FWD), 22/29 mpg (AWD)