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A red 2024 Cadillac XT4 for sale is shown from the side while driving on a city street.

What Are the Differences Between the Cadillac XT4 and XT5?

Automakers nowadays love initials, which can sometimes make it tough for car buyers to discern between models. NX this, RX that, CT5, L-M-N-O-P. You get the idea. It can be a challenge to figure out how these same-sounding vehicles actually differ, and when it comes to Cadillac, there are several that sound quite literally the same, aside from a different number at the end of their name. You may have seen the Cadillac XT4 for sale, wondering if this compact SUV may be able to revive your ride; however, there’s also the XT5. So, when it comes to the XT4 vs the XT5, what’s the difference?

Compact vs Midsize

First things first, let’s talk about size. The Cadillac XT4 is a compact SUV known for its outstanding features, carefully laid-out cabin, and exceptionally elegant appearance. New models showcase incredible tech features, including a massive, curved LED display, stunning exterior upgrades, and an interior ambiance that oozes with luxury. Compact SUVs are ideal for many different types of travelers. Daily commuters love them for their fuel efficiency, while those who are more familiar with sedans prefer them because they’re easy to handle. They’re a breeze to drive, great on gas, and more affordable than their larger rivals, which makes them ideal for a vast majority of drivers out on the roads these days.

Now, compact SUVs don’t work for every driver. Some drivers need more space but don’t want to drive some cavernous hauler that can fit the whole Little League team inside. That’s where midsize models, like the Cadillac XT5, come in to save the day. Like the smaller XT4, the XT5 radiates with Cadillac class, featuring a spacious interior that can accommodate more people and gear comfortably. Midsize SUVs appeal to families, commuters, and those who like to hit the road on the weekend for a little trip out of town. They’re known for their spaciousness without feeling too imposing, as well as their capabilities and engaging driving dynamics.

Both the XT4 and XT5 are Cadillac models, which means that they exhibit a certain level of extravagance that you can’t find in the competition. If you’re looking for a smaller solution to your daily drive that’s efficient and easy on the eyes, the XT4 is a top pick. On the other hand, if you need more space than a compact SUV can provide, a midsize model, like the XT5, may be better suited to your needs.

A red 2024 Cadillac XT4 is shown from the rear at an angle.

Performance and Efficiency

One engine resides under the polished hood of every 2024 Cadillac XT4, which is a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder. This dynamic engine provides you with 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, making for a fun and powerful ride. Not only can you expect your daily commute to be a bit more lively, but the XT4 can also tow like a champ, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. So, if you are looking to tow your camper into the woods for a glamping trip, complete with all the creature comforts you require, the XT4 can surely handle the load. Opt for available AWD and ensure that you’re taking advantage of optimal control, no matter where you’re traveling, as this system sends torque to the wheels that need it the most.

On the road, the XT4 can really spice up your ride with selectable drive modes to enhance the journey, like Sport, Snow/Ice, and others. Its available Active Sport Suspension evaluates the road every two milliseconds, adjusting its damping through Continuous Damping Control, maximizing the feeling of the ride, no matter how bumpy it happens to be out there. In addition to being smooth and refined on the road, the XT4 is highly efficient, getting an EPA-estimated 24 MPG on city streets and 29 MPG on the highway.

Midsize SUVs can often give you more of a choice when it comes to the power that resides under your hood, which is exactly what you can expect from the XT5. With two engines to choose from, a standard 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder or an available 3.6L V6, the XT5 allows you to create the ride you desire, no matter where you’re heading. Its standard engine offers the same amount of power as the XT4; however, if you want a bit more pep in your step, the V6 will deliver, with 310 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque driving you forward. It’s also efficient, getting an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway with its standard engine, but if towing is on your mind, you’ll have to upgrade to its V6 to enjoy 3,500 lbs of towing capability. Its standard engine can only handle 1,000 lbs, which severely limits your hauling potential.

Space and Style

When it comes to space, obviously, the XT4, which is the smaller of the two, is going to offer a bit less than the XT5, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll feel cramped. Quite the contrary, the XT4 offers best-in-class rear legroom of 39.5 inches, and when you fold its rear seats, you’re able to take advantage of up to 48.9 cu.ft. of cargo capacity. The midsize XT5 offers a bit more space for your gear, with a maximum cargo volume of 63 cu.ft. This makes it easy for families and those traveling with more things to be able to do so without affecting the comfort of everyone on board.

Both the XT4 and XT5 are exquisitely beautiful—they’re Cadillacs, after all. You’ll find that the XT4 makes great use of its space by offering new interior design elements for 2024 to elevate the feeling on board. This includes available high-gloss genuine wood and carbon fiber accents, as well as available heated and ventilated seats with power lumbar massage and leather seating surfaces to help you relax while you’re battling traffic in the city. The XT5 also showcases phenomenal style, with cut-and-sewn leather appointments, natural wood and carbon fiber accents, and an Air Ionizer to purify the air in its cabin. If style is on your mind, both of these Cadillac superstars will offer you the experience you desire on the road.

The tan interior of a 2024  Cadillac XT4 is shown from the driver's seat.

Touchscreen Displays

Like style, you would assume that both the XT4 and XT5 offer the same tech features; however, that’s not exactly the case. The level of innovation inside the compact XT4 is exceptional, as 2024 models showcase the new 33-inch curved LED display, which offers everything from connectivity to entertainment to driving details to make your ride as intuitive as ever. Presenting all of your must-have apps and more in 9K resolution, this touchscreen experience is one of the best in the business. You’ll also find Google-based software to add convenience and enjoyment to the daily ride. The XT5 doesn’t offer this in its 2024 models; instead, you only have a standard eight-inch display to utilize, which can vastly reduce the potential of your tech experience.

Both Luxurious Models Offer an Exceptional Driving Experience

So, when comparing the XT4 and XT5, you’ll find that the obvious difference is size, with the XT5 offering a bit more space for people and cargo. Other than that, the XT4 simply shines with its outstanding driving dynamics, pristine design, and out-of-this-world tech elements that heighten the feel of any ride. Both Cadillac models are stunning, and that much is clear, but if you want to get a little bit more out of your ride, you’ll find it in the XT4, which is waiting to make any drive an enhanced experience.