Once a brand famous for large limousines, Cadillac is now expanding its lineup in the completely opposite direction. It looks like we are about to see the smallest crossover in the lineup, which will compete with other subcompact crossovers. The 2021 Cadillac XT3 is just speculation at the moment, but many reports suggest that this is a certain thing. This will be the smallest crossover in the company’s lineup but the exact details are still unclear. These days, we can hear two possible scenarios about the new model.
Two platforms are in the game, two completely different design approaches. In any case, the 2021 Cadillac XT3 will enter a highly competitive segment, but we have no doubt that Caddy will figure out the way to stand out. According to the latest reports, it could hit the market already in the next year. Still, keep in mind that the company is still quiet about this model, so take the following paragraphs with a reserve.
2021 Cadillac XT3 Redesign
As we already mentioned, there are two possibilities for the 2021 Cadillac XT3. According to some sources, the new crossover would have a lot of things in common with another upcoming model, CT3. Given the nameplates, we may presume similar size, but this scenario doesn’t seem that like and we will try to explain in a couple of words. Simply, this would mean that the XT3 is going to ride on the Alpha platform. Of course, that would be great, considering the FR layout. However, no crossover rides on this architecture, including bigger and more expensive models like XT4 and XT5, so there’s no reason to expect something like that from the 2021 Cadillac XT3 either.
On the other side, the scenario sounds way more realistic. According to this one, we would see a more “ordinary” design approach. Given the model’s expected size, it’s not hard to presume that the 2021 Cadillac XT3 would feature a lot of things in common with other subcompact crossovers in the lineup, such as the recently introduced Buick Encore GX, as well as the upcoming Chevy Trailblazer. This means a new VSS platform, which features a typical FF layout and uses small turbocharged engines. Of course, there’s no doubt that AWD models would be in the offer as well. When it comes to size, we are pretty sure that the 2021 Cadillac XT3 would feature the same wheelbase, which means slightly under 104 inches between the axles, which is quite typical for the class.
It’s not hard to conclude that the second scenario sounds far more likely. However, we are still waiting to hear something from the officials.
2021 Cadillac XT3 Exterior and Interior
These aspects of the new model are still a complete mystery. Still, we may presume that the company would stick to the latest design language, which would mean a lot of similarities with models like the XT4, especially at the front. We expect to see pretty much the same face, as well as the overall shape, just in a smaller package. When it comes to proportions, we expect nothing but similar size to models like Encore GX, though smaller revisions are possible.
When it comes to interior design, it’s hard to talk about details. We count on lots of high-quality materials and pretty attractive dashboard design. Given the size and overall design, it’s not hard to presume that the amount of legroom will be the same as in the counterparts from Chevy and Buick. The same thing goes for the cargo volume, which should also feature pretty much the same numbers.
2021 Cadillac XT3 Engine
If we take that the 2021 Cadillac XT3 will ride on a new VSS platform, there are already two engines that seem very like. Both are small and efficient, also equipped with a turbocharged. The first one is a 1.2-liter turbo-three, which features a max output of 137 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. A bigger 1.3-liter engine also has just three cylinders but features notably more power. A max output goes around 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Interestingly, both engines come in pair with a CVT gearbox, though AWD models use a 9-speed gearbox. We are pretty sure that the 2021 Cadillac XT3 won’t use continually variable transmission, so a 9-speed automatic remains the only scenario. Also, it won’t be surprised if we see some additional, more powerful engine options in the offer.
Release Date and Price
Some reports suggest that the 2021 Cadillac XT3 could arrive already in the next year. Still, keep in mind that the new crossover is just a rumor at the moment and that we are still waiting to hear something from the officials on this matter. We presume that base versions would go around 32/33.000 dollars.
