How Does the Lexus NX Stack up to the Cadillac XT4?

Interesting Comparison

It goes without saying that compact luxury crossover shoppers have more than a few options to choose from these days. The exploding segment is filled with viable options, and that includes the Lexus NX and Cadillac XT4. The NX was one of the first competitors in this segment, while the XT4 is a fairly new entry. So we found this comparison test between the two over at Auto Trader to be quite interesting. 

Photos: Auto Trader

Styling

Styling is rather subjective, but we think both of these 'utes have plenty to offer in that department. Auto Trader agrees, but notes that Lexus' styling is "aggressive," while the XT4 "doesn’t have a lot of character in comparison." So it's easy to call this one a wash, because each one appeals to a very different customer, though we personally prefer the look of the Lexus over the cookie-cutter Caddy styling.

Photos: Auto Trader

>>Join the conversation about the NX vs the XT4 right here in ClubLexus.com.

Interior Styling

On the inside, Auto Trader liked the NX's "swoopy dash design, a pleasing mix of materials, and chunky steering wheel." Problem is, it's a little dated compared to the newer XT4, which "features attractive upholstery, finished in a mix of black and bright tan leather with contrasting stitching."

Photos: Auto Trader

>>Join the conversation about the NX vs the XT4 right here in ClubLexus.com.

Interior Utility

In terms of actual practicality inside, the NX has less head and legroom than the Cadillac, along with less cargo space when the rear seat is folded up. However, fold the seat down, and the Lexus has greater cargo room. Auto Trader notes that "the Cadillac isn’t the ideal big-item hauler," and is designed to "focus on passengers first."

Photos: Auto Trader

>>Join the conversation about the NX vs the XT4 right here in ClubLexus.com.

Powertrain

The Lexus UX 300 has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 235 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, which is backed up by a six-speed automatic transmission. The XT4's 2.0-liter turbo four makes 237 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque and is paired to a nine-speed automatic. Auto Trader notes that with the Caddy, "the extra gear ratios mean that the vehicle feels a bit more responsive in almost every condition." 

Photos: Auto Trader

>>Join the conversation about the NX vs the XT4 right here in ClubLexus.com.

Driving Feel

In terms of feel, Auto Trader says the NX is "more mature and refined," with a "weighty steering wheel" and "buttoned-down feel of the chassis." The XT4, on the other hand, "feels a bit more unwieldy and behaves like a bigger vehicle even though it’s about the same size. Its light steering leads to plenty of mid-corner corrections, and the quick action of the steering didn’t bode well for the car’s soft suspension. The vehicle ends up feeling a bit floaty at times. While some luxury buyers might appreciate this trait, the cabin does seem louder, with more engine, tire, and wind noise than the Lexus."

Photos: Auto Trader

>>Join the conversation about the NX vs the XT4 right here in ClubLexus.com.

Easy Fix

In terms of price, the NX starts out at $48,300 and landed at $50,750 for this particular tester, compared to the XT4's starting price of $35,398 and an as-tested price of $58,318. The final verdict of this comparison was incredibly close in the end, with the XT4 edging out the NX by just 0.5 points. The deciding factor was ultimately the Lexus' outdated infotainment system, which is a pretty easy fix should the automaker decide to give it an upgrade in the near future.

Photos: Auto Trader

>>Join the conversation about the NX vs the XT4 right here in ClubLexus.com.

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