MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Cadillac Xt4

NHTSA safety across every Cadillac Xt4 model year we cover.

Across the 7 model years of the Cadillac Xt4 we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 90 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2024 at 76. 12 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial Reviewed against NHTSA data 2026-07-02

The Cadillac XT4 is a compact luxury SUV that slots into one of the most competitive segments in the American market. Launched for 2019, it serves as the brand's entry point into the premium crossover space, targeting younger buyers and urban professionals who want Cadillac prestige in a smaller, more maneuverable package. It competes directly against the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

The Cadillac XT4 has shown meaningful safety improvement across its production run, climbing to a Best NHTSA Safety Index of 90 out of 100 in its 2025 model year, a rating we classify as Exceptional. That arc from Average to Exceptional over roughly six years is a genuine positive for buyers who prioritize protection. Crash-test performance in the best year shows a perfect 5-star side-impact result, which is the most important real-world crash scenario for an SUV of this size and height. The 4-star frontal and 4-star rollover ratings are solid but leave room for improvement, and shoppers should note the variation across model years rather than assuming every XT4 performs identically. The recall picture deserves honest attention. Twelve recalls across seven model years is a moderately elevated count for this segment, and buyers shopping used examples from the early 2019 to 2021 window should verify all open recalls are resolved through NHTSA's VIN lookup tool before purchase. Owner complaints total 95 across covered years, including 4 alleged crash incidents and 2 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the pattern is worth monitoring. Bottom line: the 2025 XT4 represents the strongest safety case in this model's history. Earlier model years require more due diligence on recall status.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the XT4 as a stylish and well-positioned entry-luxury crossover that delivers a composed, comfortable driving experience fitting the Cadillac brand. Most find the interior quality and technology features competitive, though some note that the powertrain and cargo space lag behind a few key rivals. Overall sentiment is positive but measured, acknowledging the segment is exceptionally competitive.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The 2025 XT4 earned a Best NHTSA Safety Index of 90 out of 100, rated Exceptional, making it the strongest safety performer in this model's history. If safety is your top priority, the newest model year carries a clear advantage.
  • Side-impact crash protection reaches a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the best-tested year, a meaningful result for a compact SUV where side collisions are among the most dangerous real-world scenarios.
  • Twelve recalls have been issued across the 2019 to 2025 model years. Anyone considering a used XT4 should run the VIN through the NHTSA recall database to confirm all campaigns have been completed before buying.
  • Ninety-five owner complaints have been filed across covered years, including 4 alleged crash incidents and 2 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, not confirmed defects, but the count is worth tracking alongside the recall history when evaluating older model years.

Most-recalled year on record: 2020 Cadillac Xt4 with 5 recalls.

BY YEARXt4 by model year