The 2019 XT4 is the vehicle Cadillac needs, but is it too late?
Pros Will stand out from the crowd 30 mpg highway Excellent rear leg room Reasonable starting price
Cons Active safety system availability limited Where’s Super Cruise? Small cargo hold CUE is still CUE
The 2019 Cadillac XT4 makes for an affordable entry point into the world of compact luxury SUVs, offering a fuel-efficient engine and plenty of rear legroom. Also, you won't mistake its subdued design for anything but a Cadillac.
Pros Affordable starting price Standard support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Plenty of rear legroom
Cons Luxury features you'd expect to be standard are optional
The XT4's edgy styling had us hoping that Cadillac's subcompact crossover—like its ATS, CTS, and CT6 sedans—had been engineered to impress driving enthusiasts. But during the day we spent hustling the XT4 along the picturesque rural roads circumscribing greater Seattle, it became clear that Cadillac has instead aimed for more traditional entry-luxury crossover stuff: quietness, sumptuousness, and user-focused technology.
Pros Smart styling, quiet engine, decent interior
Cons Unhurried shifting quality, uncommunicative chassis.
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class Sedan is offered in the following styles: CLA 250 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), CLA 250 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM), and AMG CLA 45 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM).
Pros Generous list of standard features Athletic handling instills confidence Luxury badging without the premium price Potent performance from the AMG CLA 45
Cons Engine and transmission are slow to respond at low speeds The ride can be rather stiff Rear seats are confining Some interior elements aren't up to luxury-car standards
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class is a compact luxury car with finesse. Its low price is justified in its small footprint and interior, but it still looks great.
Pros Striking design Responsive powertrains Comfortable front seats Good infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto added Confident ride
Cons Almost nonexistent rear seat Price tag gets crazy quickly Unforgiving ride Hard to enter and exit Busy transmission
