With consumers craving more room and a higher seat off the road, demand for compact cars and sedans has dwindled to practically nothing. Growing in popularity, however, are spacious crossovers and small SUVs. To try and get back some of the precious revenue it has lost over the last few years, Cadillac has introduced a subcompact crossover in 2019, the XT4. If you’re wondering what this new beauty has to offer, keep reading to see some of its advantages and disadvantages.

The Look

How a vehicle performs means a lot, but you want your ride to look great, too.

• Pro – Sleek, stylish exterior: Subcompact crossovers can suffer from trend overkill. In an attempt to attract a younger buyer, some automakers go all out with experimental designs, making the vehicle date itself too quickly. Glamorous but refined, the XT4 maintains a classic appeal that won’t appear too needy.
• Con – An interior that says, “meh”: Known for not skimping on quality materials, the cabin is flushed with soft leather and massaging front seats. Nonetheless, nothing about the cabin feels modern or innovative.

The Technology

All pros here, with this new model adding a dial option to the touchscreen (so long, smudges), wireless charging, smartphone integration and Bluetooth connections. Cadillac even made nice with Amazon, so Prime members can get deliveries to their car for free. Well done.

Maneuverability

Cadillac has always done well in the performance department, and the XT4 comes to show off. With enough get-up-and-go to wake you up in the morning but a hum that won’t cause your head to rattle, this model gives you something from both baskets. So, for steering and handling, the XT4 gets a pro.

Safety

Another mark on the positive side, the vehicle’s safety features impress. With a rear camera mirror (who can reverse without one of these?) and OnStar capabilities, you’ll have enough peace of mind to enjoy the car’s easy acceleration.

Cost

You might have guessed this model comes priced like a Caddy. With base models starting just below $35,000, there’s a lot to love about this car, but price isn’t one. And if you want to enjoy any of the cool gadgets previously listed, you’ll probably pay more (think closer to $50,000). Nonetheless, this new crossover is worth a test drive. And who knows, you may fall in love.

When you need quality auto care, contact the experts at DOC Auto at one of our two Fredericksburg, VA, locations: Chatham Heights and Courthouse Road.