CADILLAC XT4

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AUDI Q5

The rugged and gorgeous American Cadillac XT4

We’ll compare two compact SUVs, the Cadillac XT4 and the Audi Q5. Both vehicles have roughly the same body size and knee room in the rear seats. Due to the difference in roof shape, the XT4 offers a more open feeling of headroom, and the XT4 has only a slight advantage in luggage capacity, but there are no major differences in livability or usability. Both vehicles have an advantage in rear seat space compared to SUVs in the same class.

However, the interior and exterior designs are symmetrical, which will likely be a point of contention. The exterior of the Q5 has a clean design typical of European cars, but the XT4 has been improved to have a more cutting-edge design, emphasizing the rugged feel of American cars. The interior is similar, with the Q5 having a clean image, while the XT4 is luxurious, typical of Cadillac.

Inside the car, the XT4’s new 33-inch large curved LCD monitor with 9K resolution is particularly eye-catching. While the adoption of curved displays that surround the driver is becoming more common in imported cars, the XT4’s large high-definition display stands out.

Cadillac XT4 SPORT

Body size = Length 4605mm x Width 1875mm x Height 1625mm

Wheelbase = 2775mm

Vehicle weight = 1760kg

Tire size = 245/45R20

Audi Q5 40TDI quattro S line

Body size = Length 4685mm x Width 1900mm x Height 1665mm

Wheelbase = 2825mm

Vehicle weight = 1910kg

Tire size = 235/55R19

In terms of power performance, the Q5 with its diesel MHEV x Quattro system has a slight advantage.

The two cars share many similarities not only in terms of their body specifications but also in their powertrains. Although there are differences between gasoline and diesel engines, both have engine characteristics that produce large torque even at low revolutions.

Regarding the 4WD system, both vehicles actively drive the rear wheels, but in fuel-efficient drive modes, they also use a clutch to physically disconnect drive to the rear wheels, reducing drive loss and allowing the vehicle to run on the front wheels alone.

However, the Q5 is equipped with a mild hybrid system. Because it is a belt drive, the motor output is not high, but it assists acceleration when starting from a standstill and helps to reduce the jerky feeling when starting that is typical of dual-clutch transmissions.

Another feature of the Q5 is its active use of coasting, which shuts down the engine completely during low-load driving. Similarly, the XT4 shuts down two of its four cylinders during low-load driving to increase range.

Taking into account the difference in vehicle weight, the power performance is roughly the same, or the Q5 is slightly better. In terms of fuel economy, the Q5 with a diesel engine has the advantage.

Cadillac XT4 SPORT

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine

Displacement = 1997cc

Maximum output = 230PS/5000rpm

Maximum torque = 350Nm/1500-4000rpm

Transmission = 9-speed AT

Drive system = AWD

Audi Q5 40TDI quattro S line

Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder diesel turbo engine + motor

Displacement = 1968cc

Maximum engine output = 204PS / 3800-4200rpm

Maximum engine torque = 400Nm / 1750-3250rpm

Transmission = 7-speed DCT

Drive system = AWD

The specs of both cars are almost the same! The best way to decide is to choose the car based on your preference for appearance.

The XT4 is only available in a “SPORT” grade, priced at 7.9 million yen. The standard “Advanced” model of the Q5 is priced at 7.38 million yen, while the “S line” model with a sporty interior and exterior design is priced at 7.96 million yen. The XT4 comes standard with electronically controlled dampers that are linked to the drive mode, but the Q5 can also be equipped with the “adaptive air suspension” as an option, which is well-known for its comfortable ride.

The two cars are almost the same size, have similar powertrain and chassis specifications, and are also close in price. The deciding factor for choosing one will likely depend on your preference for interior and exterior styling.