Cadillac is putting the finishing
touches on the all-new XT4. Designed to compete with rivals such as the BMW X3
and Mercedes GLC, the XT4 will become the company's entry-level crossover when
it is launched later this year.
Cadillac has been tight-lipped about the model
but the latest spy photos show the crossover will follow in the footsteps of
the XT5 and feature a prominent grille, a relatively short hood, and angular
styling cues.
The camouflage hides most of the styling details but
we can see the model will have an upward sweeping beltline, roof rails, and a
rakish rear window. Other highlights include a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a dual
exhaust system.
Engine options remain unconfirmed but Cadillac
president Johan de Nysschen has previously said the model will be offered with
an "entirely new series of efficient and powerful engines." That's
not much to go on but rumors have suggested the crossover could have a
turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces at least 275 hp.
The engine is expected to be connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission
and an optional all-wheel drive system. Later down the road, Cadillac is expected
to introduce a plug-in hybrid variant.
Reports have suggested the Cadillac XT4 will be
built alongside the Chevrolet Malibu at the Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas
City, Kansas. This isn't too surprising as the crossover is expected to ride on
the C1XX platform which is related to the E2XX platform which underpins the
sedan.
Cr : Carscoops