General Motors engineers are developing the new Cadillac XT3 crossover as we speak. This latest addition to the American luxury brand’s lineup is expected to hit the market in the not-too-distant future, so let’s take a look at how this vehicle will slot into Cadillac’s product portfolio – which is already concentrated with crossover models like the XT4, XT5 and XT6.
A suspected Cadillac XT3 prototype
The Cadillac XT3 is an upcoming subcompact, B-segment crossover that will undercut the Cadillac XT4 in the automaker’s model range, putting rival subcompact offerings like the Volvo XC40 and Lexus UX directly in its crosshairs. While the Cadillac XT4 is already small, many of Cadillac’s rivals already offer crossover models that are smaller than the XT4, making the introduction of this model a no-brainer for the GM-owned luxury brand.
Sales Numbers - Luxury B-Segment Crossovers - 2021 - United States
| MODEL | YTD 21 / YTD 20 | YTD 21 | YTD 20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| VOLVO XC40 | +12.72% | 26,802 | 23,778 |
| LEXUS UX | +3.65% | 17,581 | 16,962 |
| TOTAL | +8.94% | 44,383 | 40,740 |
It’s also possible that the pricing and market positioning of the Cadillac XT3 will set it up to compete with premium offers rather than outright luxury offerings. Some premium subcompact models on sale right now include the Buick Encore GX and Mazda CX-30.
Under the skin of the Cadillac XT3 will likely be GM’s modular Vehicle Strategy Set-Front platform, which is also known as the VSS-F platform. This same front-wheel-drive-based architecture already underpins GM subcompact crossovers like the Buick Encore GX and Chevy Trailblazer. Thanks to the presence of this platform, we expect the XT3 to be shorter and narrower than the XT4 and to also feature a stubbier wheelbase. As an aside, the Cadillac XT4 is one of the widest vehicles in the B-segment and also rides on one of the longest wheelbases in this vehicle category, tapping GM’s E2 platform.
Sales Numbers - Luxury C-Segment Crossovers - 2021 - United States
| MODEL | YTD 21 / YTD 20 | YTD 21 | YTD 20 |
|---|---|---|---|
| LEXUS NX | +4.89% | 58,514 | 55,784 |
| ACURA RDX | +8.01% | 57,013 | 52,785 |
| BUICK ENVISION | +32.93% | 46,450 | 34,942 |
| AUDI Q3 | +26.46% | 34,462 | 27,251 |
| MERCEDES-BENZ GLB-CLASS | +15.07% | 26,677 | 23,183 |
| LINCOLN CORSAIR | -13.10% | 22,790 | 26,227 |
| BMW X1 | +26.71% | 18,253 | 14,405 |
| MERCEDES-BENZ GLA-CLASS | -43.50% | 14,322 | 25,348 |
| CADILLAC XT4 | -48.48% | 11,579 | 22,473 |
| BMW X2 | -11.13% | 6,565 | 7,387 |
| INFINITI QX30 | -99.32% | 1 | 148 |
| TOTAL | +2.31% | 296,626 | 289,933 |
Cadillac XT4
While the Cadillac XT3 will definitely be introduced in China, it’s currently unclear if it will be sold in North America. GM Authority spy photographers have spotted it driving on public roads near GM’s Milford Proving Grounds test center in Michigan, however GM is a global company and is known to test global market products at Milford, so this isn’t a sure sign it will be sold here. It would be smart to offer it here, however, seeing as many of GM’s rivals have seen sales success with their own B-segment offerings.
We’ll keep our ear to the ground with regard to the Cadillac XT3 and its potential North American arrival. In the meantime, be sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more Cadillac XT3 news, Cadillac news and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
“Here’s How The Cadillac XT3 Could Fit In The Brand’s Lineup”
Put a Buick badge on it… We don’t need Tinillacs..
This means Chevrolet and Cadillac will have a full lineup of crossovers and suvs. But what about GMC and Buick?
Actually Buick needs a full line-up. GMC is fine since it is a truck brand only and growing.
If they don’t sell very many, it will fit right into Cadillac’s lineup perfectly.
Quote from above: “Some premium subcompact models on sale right now include the Buick Encore GX and Mazda CX-30.”
If the Mazda CX30 is what they would consider “premium”, then they truly need to take a better look at what that means. I can barely get there with the Encore GX and I like that one. But the CX30 is in no way premium unless you consider a ton of cheap plastic, cheap tinny doors and sitting low in the car with the doors and dash making you feel like you’re being swallowed as being premium. It’s engine is way outdated, under powered and isn’t that good for MPG’s. The only way I can get there on the Encore GX is if it’s the package with the all painted exterior with all the extra’s added. Either way, the Encore is way nicer than the CX30.
This vehicle is needed and more than likely to be offered here in the States to balance out CAFE within GM. One of the best sellers from GM are their trucks, SUVs and the Vette which they all are available with a V8.
Johnls:
I think the Lyric will do even more than a XT3 in that arena. That and the Lyric is in production now unlike the XT3.
Can you say “Cimarron”?
You’re 40 years in the past.
And your point is? Obviously you didn’t get mine!
I think it should be, XT3-EV!!!
I can’t see how something so tiny and cramped could ever be called “premium”.
Please don’t put the 3 cylinder engine in it!!
Give me a optional 2.7 And I’m in !!!
Need XT7 not XT3
How is GM Authority so sure this is a New XT3 and not a redesign for the XT4? We were suppose to see a New redesigned XT4 for 2023 but it was pushed out another year due to covid-19 and shortages or parts.