ROBUST CHASSIS, DIRECT STEERING SYSTEM DRIVE AGILITY, REFINEMENT
An all-new, compact SUV architecture is the foundation for the Cadillac XT4’s agile driving dynamics, channeling the performance of the propulsion system into a sporty, refined experience.
Robust, stiff and comparatively lightweight, thanks in large part to the incorporation of press-hardened, high-strength steel, the chassis’ strength enables an exceptionally high degree of suspension tuning that enhances driver feedback and the overall feeling of solidity.
Steering is a fundamental contributor to the Cadillac XT4’s sporty, nimble driving dynamics, and its variable-assist electric system connects with a solid-mounted front cradle and a lateral cross brace that add stiffness to the vehicle structure. It provides a firmer foundation for the steering system that, in turn, reduces the vehicle motions when the steering wheel is turned, for a more direct feel.
“The steering system’s immediate responses to inputs offer a greater feel of connection to the road,” said Pawlik. “It’s an attribute that enhances the driver’s confidence behind the wheel and gives the Cadillac XT4 a sporty character.”
The XT4 also features a Cadillac-first tuned vibration absorber integrated into the airbag behind the steering wheel. It is designed to help mitigate road and propulsion system vibrations that can make their way up the steering column.
While designs on other vehicles may add additional weight to the steering wheel to help with vibrations, the innovative XT4 solution tunes the existing rubber mounts of the airbag itself to accomplish the task. It also helps provide a more comfortable feel for the steering wheel and enhances the driver’s perception of structural solidity for the entire vehicle.
Additional chassis system highlights include:
- Rebound springs used with the MacPherson strut front suspension enable more refined calibration of the struts for enhanced body roll control and weight transfer during acceleration. That helps keep the wheels planted, contributing to the Cadillac XT4’s feeling of control, especially when cornering at higher speeds.
- A five-link rear independent suspension is mounted on a fully isolated rear cradle system that effectively dampens road noise at the rear of vehicle, where SUVs are traditionally sensitive to noise because of their open cargo areas.
- Custom-developed, all-new Continental all-season tires are designed to balance overall grip, handling, braking and quietness. More than a year was spent refining the compound and tread design of the standard 18-inch and available 20-inch tires.
ACTIVE SPORT CHASSIS ELEVATES COMFORT AND CONTROL
XT4 Sport models offer the sophisticated Active Sport Suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which delivers the XT4’s highest levels of ride control and isolation as well as enhanced stability.
CDC is an active suspension system that provides variable damping for the MacPherson strut front suspension and five-link independent rear suspension. It uses sensors to monitor road and vehicle inputs, adjusting damping for each wheel 500 times per second.
On smoother roads, CDC automatically adjusts to the softest setting to provide greater isolation and ride comfort. On more varied roads and during spirited driving maneuvers, the system adjusts the vehicle’s roll, pitch and vertical motions to maintain superior levels of handling and stability.
“XT4’s available CDC takes the XT4’s driving dynamics and control to a higher threshold,” said Pawlik. “It is the ultimate in ride control and refinement for this all-new SUV.”
ELECTRO-HYDRAULICALLY CONTROLLED BRAKE SYSTEMS OFFERS ELECTRONIC ASSIST
The Cadillac XT4 is the first Cadillac model to incorporate the state-of-the-art, electro-hydraulically controlled braking system.
This electro-hydraulic system replaces the conventional vacuum-based power assist design with a compact electric motor and offers on-demand braking power for more efficient braking performance. It also contributes to the XT4’s overall fuel efficiency by reducing parasitic demands on the engine.
Additional benefits of the system include brake fade assistance in demanding conditions, such as descending steep grades, and panic-braking assistance provides greater braking pressure in emergency conditions.
“Along with all its efficiency and performance benefits, the pedal feel is firm and confidence-inspiring,” said Pawlik. “That means drivers get a more direct, responsive feel in all types of braking conditions.”
TWIN-CLUTCH AWD OPTIMIZES CONTROL IN ALL CONDITIONS
The XT4’s available twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system improves traction and vehicle control, whether the road is dry, wet, snowy or icy. And with the standard Driver Mode Select system, it can be decoupled entirely from the rear axle to enhance efficiency.
The AWD system’s design independently controls torque to each rear wheel, based on road conditions, offering superior driving control. It enhances dry-road handling and cornering, while offering excellent performance in wet, muddy, snowy and icy conditions.
In inclement conditions, the system can reduce torque to a wheel where slip is detected, diverting it to a wheel with greater traction. On dry roads, it provides additional control around curves by sending torque to the outside wheel instead of the inside wheel that is experiencing more traction-enhancing downward force.
