Used 2019 Cadillac XT4 Sport SUV Review

The 2019 Cadillac XT4 makes for an affordable entry point into the world of compact luxury SUVs, offering a fuel-efficient engine and plenty of rear legroom. We also like its new technology interface, which is superior to older Cadillac systems by a wide margin. And unlike the bland styling found on many other crossovers, you won't mistake the XT4's distinctive design for anything but a Cadillac.

The XT4, however, misses the mark in several key areas. It's not much fun to drive due to lackluster handling and an engine that is a little underpowered by class standards. For a luxury vehicle, it's also surprisingly unrefined. The engine constantly makes a diesel-like chattering sound, and the ride quality is unnecessarily firm. Rivals are similarly priced and triumph where the XT4 falters.

Overall, the new XT4 is a mixed bag. It's worth a look if space and style are priorities for you. Otherwise, we think you might be happier checking out rival crossover SUVs such as Acura's RDX or BMW's X1 or X3.

The 2019 Cadillac XT4 is available in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport. Though the base Luxury boasts solid entertainment and phone integration features, it's light on some features. The Premium Luxury and the Sport come with upgrades that match their names, such as leather for the former and additional seat bolstering for the latter. Regardless of trim level, the XT4 employs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (237 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque) and a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

The base Luxury trim level doesn't quite come with all the features you might expect, but nonetheless it's decently equipped. Feature highlights include 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, power-adjustable front seats, simulated leather upholstery, keyless entry and ignition, remote start, and dual-zone climate control. Infotainment is handled by 8-inch touchscreen, Near Field Communications for easy Bluetooth connections, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, four USB outlets (including one Type-C), and a seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio.

Stepping up to the Premium Luxury nets you automatic wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, a power liftgate, a rear cargo shade, driver-seat memory settings, ambient interior lighting and added drive safety aids, including front and rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and a seat that vibrates to alert the driver.

The Sport is similarly equipped but dons black trim-specific details, LED turn signals, and front cornering lamps. The interior has simulated leather upholstery, a different style of steering wheel and sport front seats.

Additional options are available for the Premium Luxury and the Sport. The Comfort and Convenience package adds upgraded front seats with a massaging function, leather upholstery (for the Sport) and hands-free operation of the power liftgate. The Technology package includes a digital gauge cluster, head-up display, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, and wireless device charging.

For added safety, the Driver Awareness package includes low-speed frontal collision mitigation, a following distance indicator and lane keeping assist. After ordering this package, you can also opt for adaptive cruise control and both front and rear automatic braking from the Driver Assist package. The Enhanced Visibility package adds a suite of additional cameras, including one that displays in the rearview mirror, as well as an automatic parking feature.

When equipped with the optional 20-inch wheels, the Sport can also be outfitted with an adaptive suspension. Other available options include a sunroof; a built-in navigation system; a Cold Weather package, which adds a heated steering wheel and heated front and outboard rear seats; and a Trailering package, which brings additional cooling, a 2-inch receiver and a wiring connector.