2023 Cadillac XT4

The XT4 is a compact luxury SUV with seating for up to five passengers. It's the smallest of Cadillac's SUVs, offering less space but more affordable pricing than the midsize XT5 and the three-row XT6. Front-wheel drive comes standard and all-wheel drive is available as an option, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine sits under the hood. For a similar layout, you could check out the Buick Envision, which shares the XT4's platform and engine at a lower price.

As it's a Cadillac, the crown jewel of all General Motors brands, the XT4 gives off the impression of a premium vehicle to compete with the likes of BMW, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and others. We're fans of the flashy styling and sharp technology features inside. Unfortunately, the rest of the XT4 experience doesn't quite measure up. Lackluster performance and a rather rough ride weigh this crossover down, and we rank the XT4 far below most competitors as a result.

Cadillac has been rumored to be working on an overhaul for the XT4 to deliver some much-needed changes, but that refreshed model will not arrive for 2023. Instead the 2023 XT4 features only minor updates, including a couple of new paint options and some safety features made standard across certain trim levels. The 2023 model is available now. Cadillac buyers holding their breath for an improved XT4 will perhaps turn a little more blue as they wait until 2024 — at the earliest.

They may share the same badge, but a mini-Escalade this is not. The XT4 suffers from a litany of issues, and an update needed to revive this lackluster SUV's fortunes is at least a year away.