Expert Reviews

2024 Cadillac XT4 Review

7.5
10
AutoTrader SCORE
This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
  • STYLING
    8/10
  • Safety
    7/10
  • PRACTICALITY
    8/10
  • USER-FRIENDLINESS
    8/10
  • FEATURES
    7/10
  • POWER
    7/10
  • COMFORT
    8/10
  • DRIVING FEEL
    7/10
  • FUEL ECONOMY
    8/10
  • VALUE
    7/10

Cadillac’s entry-level crossover looks more upmarket than ever thanks to design elements borrowed from its pricier siblings.

The 2024 Cadillac XT4 may not excite in terms of the drive experience, but its reasonable pricing has some appeal. However, making it feel like a proper premium vehicle requires some upgrades that will set prospective owners back a bit.

Styling: 8/10

The XT4 received a facelift for 2024, with a new grille and LED headlights, and updates to both the front and rear ends that makes it look more like the larger – and more expensive – XT6. It also boasts a more tech-forward and futuristic feel inside thanks in large part to a redesigned dash that features the same 33-inch diagonal LED display found in the all-electric Cadillac Lyriq.

Safety: 7/10

The XT4 comes with forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and keeping assistance, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. However, adaptive cruise control is optional only with the two most expensive trims.

Features: 7/10

When it comes to amenities and creature comforts, the XT4 is a bit of a mixed bag. All trims come with heated front and rear seats and a heated steering wheel, as well as interior ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and active noise cancellation. A power tailgate is also standard, with hands-free functionality on the Premium Luxury and Sport models.

There’s also that massive 33-inch screen, a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. However, some nice-to-have features, like a head-up display, wireless charging, and a camera-based rearview mirror are only available as part of a pricey technology package.

User-Friendliness: 8/10

As a daily driver, the XT4 delivers on the promise of an upscale experience. The focal point of the cockpit is the impressive 33-inch screen, which displays an array of data. The only drawback to this massive display is that some information can be obstructed from view by the steering wheel.

Practicality: 8/10

With room for five and decent cargo space – 637 L behind the back seats – the XT4 is on par with a similarly priced competitor like the Volvo XC40, but it’s slightly smaller than the Lincoln Corsair. And while the rear seat can be a bit tight for taller individuals, passengers back there get their own air vents and USB ports, as well as heated seats. When properly equipped, the XT4 can tow 1,588 kg (3,500 lb).

Comfort: 8/10

Besides a tight second row, the XT4 delivers a reasonably comfortable passenger experience, although not an especially luxurious ride. You will feel the bumps and irregularities in the road, especially with the optional 20-inch wheels and low-profile tires they’re wrapped in. However, cabin noise is kept to a minimum thanks in part to standard features like active noise cancellation, and the acoustically-insulated windshield and door glass.

Power: 7/10

All trims come with the same turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine, which delivers 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, but only with premium gasoline. That’s not enough to excite the senses, but it is enough for city driving and highway merging. All trims get the same nine-speed automatic transmission, although all-wheel drive is optional on the cheapest trim and standard on the Premium Luxury and Sport.

Driving Feel: 7/10

The XT4 wasn’t built with adrenaline junkies in mind. So while it won’t make your heart race with excitement, it does perform well in day-to-day driving scenarios on city streets and highways. While it’s not particularly sporty, it won’t let you down when traffic conditions call for decisive manoeuvres or when you need solid braking performance.

Fuel Economy: 8/10

According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the front-wheel-drive XT4 has a combined fuel consumption rate of 9.1 L/100 km, while all-wheel-drive models are a bit thirstier at 9.5. We averaged 10.0 L/100 km with our all-wheel drive tester. Premium fuel is recommended, which will significantly impact the pain at the pumps.

Value: 7/10

The premium market is packed with entry-level models, putting the XT4 against some tough competition. As the most affordable crossover in Cadillac’s lineup, it starts at $43,999 (including a $2,300 freight charge), but extras like leather cost more. This Premium Luxury tester was priced at nearly $62,000 before tax.

The Verdict

Thanks to a significant makeover, the 2024 Cadillac XT4 now looks more like the rest of the Cadillac lineup. While the entry-level Luxury trim is affordable, it’s also a bit bare-bones. You’ll get more out of the other two trims – the Premium Luxury and Sport – which start at the same $51,199. Besides styling differences, the major differences between the two are that the Sport model comes with an adaptive sport suspension to improve its handling chops.

Competitors
Specifications
Engine Displacement 2.0L
Engine Cylinders Turbo I4
Peak Horsepower 235 hp @5,000 rpm
Peak Torque 258 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,000 rpm
Fuel Economy 10.4 / 8.4 / 9.5 L/100 km cty/hwy/cmb
Cargo Space 637 / 1,385 L seats up/down
Model Tested 2024 Cadillac XT4 Premium Luxury AWD
Base Price $48,899
A/C Tax $100
Destination Fee $2,300
Price as Tested $61,789
Optional Equipment
$10,490 — Active Safety package, $2,105; Technology package, $1,895; Dual-panel sunroof, $1,795; 20-inch wheels, $1,295; Bose sound system, $1,010; Comfort & Convenience package, $985; Metallic paint, $900; Monochromatic Cadillac emblem, $275; All-weather floor mats, $230