2020 Cadillac CT4

Although the CT4's exterior design is not groundbreaking, its sleek profile and athletic stance will still certainly attract attention. Thanks to its long dash-to-front-axle, wide stance, and rear-wheel-drive setup, the 2020 Cadillac CT4 boasts that coveted sport sedan design. It's clear this is not front-wheel-drive. There are many noteworthy design elements here, such as the bright exterior accents and unique front grille with foil-stampings for the Luxury and Premium Luxury trims. Those seeking a sportier attitude, the Sport and V-Series, by contrast, offer darker accents and performance-inspired details like rocker extensions, a rear spoiler, and unique wheel designs. V-Series cars have V logos throughout. A set of 17-inch wheels are standard while 18-inchers are optional.

Regardless of trim level, all CT4s feature LED headlights, taillights, and signature vertical lights at all four corners. The traditional three-box design is still there, but it's more coupe-like than ever as the rear pillars taper at a greater angle than on the old ATS. In short, we like what we see but we still wonder whether Cadillac designers should have taken the styling a bit further. Time will tell.

One of the first things Cadillac wants us to know about the CT4's interior is its driver-focused cockpit with seating for up to five passengers. A high-definition, 8-inch diagonal touchscreen is front and center. All infotainment and connectivity features are managed here. There are also numerous standard features including keyless entry and push-button start, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a dual-display driver information center, rear vision camera, LED interior lighting with stealth mode, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The rest of the cabin is adorned with leather upholstery (leatherette is standard) and trim and various other high-quality trim materials, such as metal accents.

Another example of high-tech 21st-century cars: the CT4's all-new electronic architecture allows for faster signal transmissions and regular systems improvements through over-the-air updates and enhanced cybersecurity.

Given the recent trend of engine downsizing, Cadillac opted not to offer the CT4 with a V6 engine. Instead, buyers will have a choice between two turbocharged four-cylinders. The base engine is a 2.0-liter offering 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The optional choice is a 2.7-liter unit with 310 hp and 348 lb-ft which sends that power to a 10-speed automatic. As previously noted, rear-wheel-drive is standard, though all-wheel drive is available on every trim level. Both engines offer active fuel management, a three-step sliding camshaft design, integrated exhaust manifold, and an electric water pump.

The performance-focused CT4-V, as previously announced, comes with the latter engine whose output is pumped up to 325 hp and 380 lb-ft. This trim also receives Brembo front brakes with four-piston calipers and, for RWD variants only, GM's coveted Magnetic Ride Control active dampers, now in its fourth-generation.

Perhaps one of the most notable technologies is the optional Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Previously only available in the CT6 flagship, Cadillac plans to make this semi-autonomous driving system available in all of its models in the very near future. Those who opt for Super Cruise will benefit from a state-of-the-art system that utilizes LiDAR map data, GPS, and a network of camera and radar sensors for complete hands-free driving on an extended range of over 200,000 miles of compatible highways throughout North America.

As of this writing, Cadillac has not released official pricing for the 2020 CT4. A total of four trims are on offer: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, and V-Series. We expect pricing to start off at around $33,000, which would make sense given that its most direct competitors, the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, each have similar starting prices. Of course, the CT4's price tag will quickly climb once the options boxes are marked and we wouldn't be surprised to see a fully-loaded CT4-V go for around $45,000, if not higher.

While the sedan segment, as a whole, is not selling the way it was only a few years ago, Cadillac refuses to ditch them completely in favor of more crossovers and SUVs. That's obviously a good thing but the CT4 faces stiff competition from highly-regarded German brands. BMW is also expected to enter this compact sedan segment in the very near future with its 2 Series Gran Coupe. Hopefully, the 2020 Cadillac CT4 will appeal to those who desire American performance luxury instead of shopping overseas.