What is the function of the paddle shifters on the Cadillac XT4?
2 Answers
The function of the paddle shifters on the Cadillac XT4 is to manually shift gears up and down. The Cadillac XT4 is a compact 5-door, 5-seat SUV with body dimensions of 4600mm in length, 1881mm in width, and 1627mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2779mm. The Cadillac XT4 is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, delivering a maximum power of 175 kW and a maximum torque of 350 Nm. It features front-wheel drive, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a five-link independent rear suspension.
The Cadillac XT4's paddle shifters are mounted right behind the steering wheel, allowing you to upshift or downshift with just a press, giving you more control over your drive. As someone who drives this car regularly, I find the automatic transmission sufficient for city commuting, but on highways or mountain roads, using the paddle shifters for manual gear changes enables quick downshifting for faster acceleration when overtaking, and provides steadier climbing power without the lag of an automatic transmission. It also retains steering wheel controls, so your hands don't need to leave the wheel during turns, reducing distractions and enhancing safety. As an SUV, the XT4's thoughtful integration of this feature suits professionals like me who value both comfort and driving dynamics—especially in rain or snow, where it helps match speed more precisely to prevent skidding. While not essential, these paddles add practical convenience to everyday driving.