The 2022 Cadillac CT4 is here to shake up the compact-sedan playground. With handling sharp enough to rival a five-star chef's knife and looks that would make even the most poised runway models blush, it's sure to leave its European competitors in the dust. Its heart, a 237-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine—or an even bolder 325-hp turbo 2.7-liter in the V-Series trim—ensures this isn't just an impish pretender. The CT4 is a handsome, performance-packed herald proclaiming that the Cadillac brand, like a fine wine, is only getting better with age.
Read on to learn more about the 2022 Cadillac CT4.
The interior design of the 2022 Cadillac CT4 strikes a balance between function and fashion. The cabin displays an acceptable level of visual allure, blending modern design cues with classic elements that echo Cadillac's rich heritage. Though the materials used may not be a standout in its class, they are aesthetically pleasing and provide a sense of sophistication. The user-friendly control setup is a notable upgrade from the previous model, doing away with touch-sensitive interfaces in favor of more tactile, intuitive controls. Standard features like 12-way power-adjustable front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control ensure a comfortable experience for the driver and passengers alike. Higher-end trims offer additional luxury features, including leather upholstery, magnesium paddle shifters, ambient interior lighting, and memory settings for the driver's seat and exterior mirrors. However, it's worth noting that the cabin space may feel a bit cramped, especially in the rear seats—a common shortcoming among compact sedans.
The car's design is characterized by sharp lines and aerodynamic curves, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also improve its performance. Dominating its front facade is the brand's signature grille, flanked by state-of-the-art LED headlamps that provide a piercing illumination. The car rides on attractive alloy wheels, whose design varies depending on the trim, further accentuating the dynamic stance of the CT4. The rear design is equally striking, with LED taillights and a well-sculpted boot lid. It is worth noting that rear-wheel drive is the standard arrangement, a rare feature in this segment, adding another layer of uniqueness to the 2022 Cadillac CT4. With a variety of color options and trim-specific exterior features, the 2022 CT4 offers a level of customization that enables buyers to express their personal style.
Under the finely sculpted hood of the 2022 Cadillac CT4, you'll find one of two turbocharged four-cylinder engines that deliver an exhilarating ride. The base Luxury, mid-range Premium Luxury, and Sport models come standard with a 2.0-liter engine pumping out 237 horsepower, ensuring a lively and responsive ride. Meanwhile, the Premium Luxury model offers an optional upgrade to a 2.7-liter engine, standard in the CT4-V, which boasts 309 or 325 horsepower, depending on the configuration. This larger engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic, compared to the 8-speed automatic that comes with the smaller engine. In a segment where rear-wheel drive is a rarity, the CT4 stands out with its standard rear-wheel drive arrangement, though all-wheel drive is available on all models as an attractive option for those seeking extra traction and control. With its impressive engine specs, the 2022 Cadillac CT4 delivers an unmatched blend of power and refinement.
Both of its turbocharged four-cylinder engines offer noteworthy fuel economy, making it an environmentally conscious choice without compromising performance. The rear-wheel-drive models with the 2.0-liter engine can achieve as high as 23 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. Those opting for all-wheel drive should note a slight decrease with the highway consumption dropping by 2 mpg and the combined by 1 mpg. The more potent 2.7-liter engine, though slightly less efficient, doesn't lag far behind with the rear-drive model managing 20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. These figures stand tall when compared to its key competitors—the Audi A3, the BMW 2-series Gran Coupe, and the Mercedes-Benz A-class. For comprehensive information and ratings on the CT4's fuel economy, the EPA's website provides further insights.
The 2022 Cadillac CT4 puts safety first, offering a range of standard safety features to keep you and your passengers secure. These include automated emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and a slew of other driver-assistance technologies. However, the true star of the show is its optional Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving mode, offering an unparalleled driving experience, but is only available for the Premium Luxury and Sport trims. As for the vehicle's crash-test results, they can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. The 2022 CT4's commitment to safety is as impressive as its commitment to luxury and performance.
The 2022 Cadillac CT4 comes across as a bit of a mixed bag, but one that's mostly filled with treats. Sure, there's the trick of a somewhat squeezed cabin and the low growl of engine noise that might test your resolve on a long journey. However, the CT4 counters these downsides with a treasure trove of features that make it a compelling choice in its class. Fancy a joyride? Its turbocharged engines provide plenty of peps to make your daily commute far from mundane. Worried about the environment? Rest easy, the CT4 boasts commendable fuel efficiency. And let's not forget the cherry on top - the Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving mode which, let's face it, is a bit like your favorite superhero coming to the rescue on those tedious long drives.
In a nutshell: Would we recommend the 2022 Cadillac CT4? Absolutely, and here's why: it's a bit like that friend who's not perfect, but whose quirks make them all the more endearing. The CT4 might not be the roomiest or the quietest, but it's certainly got the charisma to pull off being the life of the party. Remember, no one ever made history by playing it safe, and the CT4 is far from a safe play. It's a daring, bold choice for those who like their drives served with a side of thrill.