When it comes to luxury SUVs, Cadillac is a brand that immediately comes to mind. Known for its impeccable design, cutting-edge technology, and powerful performance, Cadillac has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest vehicles on the market. Two of its most well-known models are the Cadillac XT4 and the Cadillac SRX. While both are luxury SUVs that cater to different types of buyers, they each have unique attributes that make them stand out in their respective segments. In this detailed comparison, we will explore every aspect of both vehicles—design, performance, comfort, safety features, pricing, and more—helping you determine which Cadillac SUV best suits your needs.
1. Overview of the Cadillac SRX and Cadillac XT4
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to have a general understanding of each model and its place in Cadillac’s lineup.
Cadillac SRX: The Cadillac SRX was a midsize luxury crossover SUV produced by Cadillac from 2004 to 2016. It was one of Cadillac’s most popular models during its production run, offering a combination of luxury, performance, and utility. The SRX was known for its bold exterior design, spacious interior, and strong engine options. However, it was discontinued in 2016 and replaced by the Cadillac XT5, a more refined and modern iteration of Cadillac’s luxury SUVs.
Cadillac XT4: The Cadillac XT4, introduced in 2018, represents Cadillac’s entry into the compact luxury SUV segment. Designed to compete with smaller SUVs like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, the XT4 brings Cadillac’s trademark luxury features to a more compact and affordable package. Its introduction was a response to the growing demand for smaller, more fuel-efficient luxury SUVs. The XT4 offers a more contemporary design, advanced technology, and modern performance features, appealing to younger buyers and those looking for a more city-friendly luxury vehicle.
2. Exterior Design and Dimensions
Both the Cadillac SRX and Cadillac XT4 feature Cadillac’s signature bold design language, though they cater to different preferences in terms of size and style.
Cadillac SRX: The Cadillac SRX is a larger, more traditional midsize SUV, offering a commanding presence on the road. Its exterior dimensions give it a substantial feel, with a length of 190.3 inches and a width of 75.2 inches. The SRX’s design focuses on sharp, angular lines and a robust front grille, which emphasizes Cadillac’s luxury image. It features a sloping roofline and rear quarter panels that give it a distinctive profile, setting it apart from its competitors. The front end, with its bold headlights and prominent Cadillac logo, exudes a sense of power and prestige.
Cadillac XT4: The Cadillac XT4, on the other hand, has a more compact and sleek design. With a length of 181.1 inches and a width of 74.1 inches, it is noticeably shorter and more nimble than the SRX. The XT4’s design language is modern, featuring sculpted lines, a more aggressive front grille, and a distinctive LED light signature. It feels more contemporary and youthful, catering to a more urban and on-the-go audience. The sleek roofline and angular features contribute to its dynamic and athletic appearance. The XT4’s smaller size makes it a better fit for city driving and parking, offering increased maneuverability compared to the SRX.
3. Interior Design and Comfort
When it comes to interior design and comfort, both the SRX and XT4 excel in offering high-quality materials and luxurious features, though there are key differences in their layouts and space.
Cadillac SRX: The SRX features a spacious and well-appointed cabin that can comfortably seat up to five passengers. It offers a premium interior with soft-touch materials, wood accents, and leather upholstery in higher trims. The 2016 model offers 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and with the second-row seats folded down, this expands to a generous 61.1 cubic feet. This makes the SRX an excellent choice for those who prioritize cargo space, especially for long road trips or family vacations.
The front seats are plush and supportive, with ample legroom for both the driver and front passenger. The SRX’s rear seats offer decent space, though not as much legroom as some newer luxury SUVs. Technology-wise, the SRX comes with Cadillac’s CUE infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. However, it is worth noting that the system is somewhat outdated compared to the more modern setups found in newer vehicles.
Cadillac XT4: The XT4’s interior is designed with a more contemporary aesthetic, combining luxury with technology. The cabin features high-quality materials such as leather upholstery, brushed aluminum, and real wood trim. The 2024 XT4 includes a redesigned center console and a 33-inch curved LED touchscreen that runs Cadillac’s latest infotainment system. The system is user-friendly and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless smartphone integration. The dashboard layout is clean and modern, with touch-sensitive controls and a stylish design that elevates the cabin’s overall atmosphere.
In terms of space, the XT4 offers ample room for its size. The rear seats offer adequate legroom for adults, and the front seats are plush and comfortable, making it ideal for long drives. However, due to its more compact design, the XT4 doesn’t offer as much cargo space as the SRX. With the rear seats in place, the XT4 offers 22.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which is still generous for its class but less than the SRX’s capacity.
4. Performance and Engine Options
Both the Cadillac SRX and Cadillac XT4 offer impressive performance, though they cater to different driving needs and preferences.
Cadillac SRX: The SRX was offered with two engine options during its production run. The base model came with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 265 horsepower, while higher trims offered a more powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine that produced 308 horsepower. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and provides strong acceleration and power for highway merging and overtaking. The SRX also offers the option of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), allowing buyers to choose the drivetrain that best suits their driving conditions.
The V6 engine provides a smooth and refined driving experience, with good power delivery across the rev range. However, the SRX’s larger size means that it doesn’t have the same level of fuel efficiency as smaller SUVs. The 2016 SRX gets an average of 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway, which is decent for its class but not as efficient as some newer luxury SUVs.
Cadillac XT4: The XT4 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the engine is smaller than the SRX’s V6, it provides more than enough power for daily driving. The turbocharged engine offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making the XT4 a great option for those who want a more economical choice without sacrificing luxury.
The XT4 comes standard with front-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available on higher trims. The standard 9-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, ensuring quick shifts and efficient power delivery. In terms of fuel efficiency, the XT4 shines with an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, making it more fuel-efficient than the SRX.
5. Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority for Cadillac, and both the SRX and XT4 come equipped with a variety of advanced safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Cadillac SRX: The Cadillac SRX offers a solid suite of safety features, including standard front and rear airbags, stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. It also comes with available safety technologies like rear park assist, lane departure warning, and forward collision alert. While the SRX didn’t receive the advanced safety features that newer vehicles have, it still offers a reliable level of protection for its time.
The 2016 SRX earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and received high marks in crash tests. It also earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), showcasing its strong safety credentials.
Cadillac XT4: The Cadillac XT4 features a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. In addition to standard airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes, the XT4 offers advanced driver-assistance systems like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. These features make the XT4 one of the safest vehicles in its class, providing drivers with added peace of mind on the road.
The XT4 has also performed well in crash tests, earning a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It also received high marks from the IIHS for its crashworthiness and advanced safety features.
6. Pricing and Value
When it comes to pricing, the Cadillac SRX and XT4 cater to different market segments. The SRX, being a used model, offers great value for those looking for a luxury SUV at a more affordable price point.
Cadillac SRX: Used 2016 Cadillac SRX models typically range in price from $10,998 to $21,490, depending on factors like mileage, condition, and location. This makes the SRX an attractive option for buyers who want a spacious, luxury SUV at a more budget-friendly price.
Cadillac XT4: The Cadillac XT4, being a newer model, is priced higher than the SRX. The 2024 XT4 starts at an MSRP of $37,895 for the base model. Higher trims, such as the Premium Luxury and Sport models, can go up to $46,000 or more. The XT4’s higher starting price reflects its more modern design, advanced technology, and superior fuel efficiency.
Both the SRX and XT4 offer great value within their respective segments, but the XT4 may be the better choice for those looking for a newer model with the latest features and better fuel economy.
7. Conclusion
While both the Cadillac XT4 and Cadillac SRX are exceptional luxury SUVs, they cater to different buyer preferences. The SRX offers a larger, more traditional luxury SUV with powerful engine options and ample cargo space, making it ideal for families and long road trips. The XT4, on the other hand, is a more compact, modern SUV that offers better fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a more youthful design. Whether you opt for the SRX or the XT4 ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and driving preferences. Both vehicles offer a truly luxurious experience, backed by Cadillac’s legendary craftsmanship and performance.
