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 Chevrolet Malibu ranked #16 in Midsize Cars. Currently the Chevrolet Malibu has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 22 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Supple ride Spacious seats Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons Low-rent interior Unsupportive seats
For 2019, the Chevrolet Malibu actually offers all three: a bigger, restyled grille; a new RS model; and an all-new continuously variable automatic transmission. Known internally as VT40, it’s General Motors’ first CVT since 2005. That one, used primarily in Saturn brand vehicles, was problematic and had high failure rates, which led GM to offer an extended warranty.
Pros Comfortable ride CVT can mimic a traditional automatic.
Cons No performance upgrades, a good CVT is still a CVT.
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu is a likeable sedan, but it requires some compromises when it comes to essential safety tech.
PROS Good looks Excellent performance from turbo engines Thrifty hybrid Excellent tech story
CONS Active safety gear costs too much Hardly engaging to drive Dull interior Light on personality
