After revealing the all-new XT4 in Manhattan in late March, Cadillac has announced plans to launch the new compact crossover in China by the end of August.
That launch date means that the Cadillac XT4 will be available to order as well as to test drive and purchase in dealer showrooms by the end of this month, therefore likely becoming available prior to the crossover’s launch in the United States, where the model is expected to launch in the fall of 2018.
The exterior design of the smallest Cadillac crossover to date incorporates the luxury brand’s new forward-looking design philosophy introduced by the Escala concept. Simple and sculpted lines accentuate the compact crossover’s powerful proportions and aggressive presence. Headlamps and taillamps have been stretched horizontally, representing a modern interpretation of classic Cadillacs.
The XT4 measures in at 181 inches (4,600 mm) long, 74 inches (1,881 mm) wide, and 64 inches (1,627 mm) high on a wheelbase of 109.4 inches (2,779 mm) long. The width enables the XT4 to be the wides in its segment.
The interior adopts a new direction for Cadillac cockpit design. Its new horizontally stretched center console ushers in the next chapter for Cadillac cabin layouts. The cabin is ergonomically designed for a comfortable journey, while featuring exquisite design aesthetics that blend new color schemes with advanced technologies.
The XT4 is driven by a new-generation propulsion system (engine and transmission). An all-new 2.0L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine (production code LSY) is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The combination makes 237 horsepower (177 kW) of maximum output and 258 pound-feet (350 Nm) of peak torque.
Front-wheel-drive is standard and a twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system is optional.
The XT4 features Cadillac’s first implementation of an electro-hydraulic assist brake system, along with the next-generation Electronic Precision Shift gear selector.
The crossover is packed with the latest technologies, including the brand’s newest and most advanced infotainment system that’s controlled via two new rotary controllers, addressing a long-standing dissatisfaction with Cadillac’s touchscreen-only infotainment systems. The system in the XT4 is capable of receiving over-the-air updates, while also featuring OnStar 4G LTE and on-board Wi-Fi (branded as Car-Fi in China).
The crossover’s long list of technologies includes Active Noise Cancellation, second-generation Rear Camera Mirror, and Automatic Parking Assist.
The XT4 also introduces Cadillac’s new “Y” trim strategy. Created to better serve the diverse and personalized needs of younger customers, the Y trim level strategy consists of a Luxury trim level that serves as the base. From there, two other trim levels – Premium Luxury and Sport – build on the Luxury trim by offering more features and a different persona:
China has become Cadillac’s largest market by volume, so a successful launch of a key product such as the XT4 will be important for the brand in the market. However, we should note that despite its high sales volume, China is significantly less profitable when compared to the United States market.
The XT4 will be produced at two plants for global consumption:
The Chinese-market model will be sourced from one of the two Jinqiao-basd plants.
Besides launching in the China by the end of August, the XT4 will launch in the Middle East by the end of the year, and in North America this fall.
Availability information for South Korea and Europe has not yet been announced.
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