EV Rider reviewer Dan Scanlan takes a test drive in a 2026 Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum – the grandest ‘Sclade of all.
This is the top-tier, all-wheel-drive long-wheelbase version, riding on blacked-out 24-inch aluminum wheels with new glossy dark trim. There’s razor-thin LED DRLs over vertical multi-element LED headlights, and LED light blade taillights – in between, glowing pearlescent paint.
Inside, after the power doors glide open, brown and cream white interior with padded semi-aniline leather, a sweeping 55-inch panoramic screen bookended by 42 AKG speakers, warm woodgrain and three rows fit for adults. There’s a night-vision infrared camera and a 4.2-liter V-8 with 420-hp and rear-, or all-wheel-drive.
So read lots more about this, and see more interior and exterior images by EV Rider reviewer Dan Scanlan – 2026 Escalade ESV Platinum Sport Review. And check out lots more views of EV, PHEV and ICE vehicles at EV Rider.
Compact crossover SUVs are everywhere. From entry-level to high-end luxury there is a compact crossover being built for just about everyone. The compact SUV combines sedan-like handling and performance with utility vehicle practicality. Fuel economy is often on par with smaller hatchbacks or less versatile station wagons.
2020 Cadillac XT4
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 is on the luxury side of today’s compact crossover landscape. Designed to appeal to younger consumers, both in age or spirit, the CT4 features innovative design inside and out. Cadillac’s “user experience” infotainment intuitively grows and adapts with the user. It wouldn’t be a stretch to call it “smart infotainment” as it leverages cloud-based connectivity to continually update systems with the latest technology. The standard 8-inch touchscreen system includes 4 USB ports, BOSE seven-speaker audio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Upgraded audio and a wireless charging station are available as options on select models.
2020 Cadillac XT4
One engine sits under the hood of every trim, regardless of the modifier in the name. All Sport, Luxury and Premium Luxury models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline4 that produces 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A smooth, quick-shifting nine-speed automatic is standard. Front wheel drive models are rated at 24/30 city/highway mpg and all-wheel-drive, which is available as an option, yield 22/29 city/highway mpg.
2020 Cadillac XT4
What defines the trim levels is appointments and design elements. XT4 Sport models feature a gloss black mesh V-Series inspired grille, gloss black window moldings and unique alloy wheel choices. Luxury and Premium Luxury models feature extensive brightwork, including grilles with metallic accents, satin aluminum window moldings and satin chrome-accented door handles.
2020 Cadillac XT4
Our review vehicle was the front-wheel-drive XT4 Sport model with front-wheel-drive. The review period fell during a busy time of the year and the XT4 worked hard to transport materials, chauffeur friends and run numerous errands. The fuel efficiency was appreciated as we racked up more than 500 miles on the odometer. While the engine and transmission combination fall short of the “sport” nomenclature, they do work exceptionally well as a spirited daily driver. The XT4’s steering is precise. The suspension is comfortable and braking confident.
2020 Cadillac XT4
New for 2020, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking and forward collision alert and safety alert seat are now standard on all models. Additional standard active safety features include rear park assist and an HD rear vision camera. Optional safety feature highlights include Lange change alert with blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, following distance indicator, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert and more.
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 has a starting price of $36,690 including destination.
