Cadillac 4WD, 4x4 or AWD: Which Vehicles Offer these Options?
March 08 2025,
In the luxury vehicle range, there are several Cadillac 4WD, Cadillac 4x4, and Cadillac AWD. It is no wonder we say that the brand's vehicles are comprehensive besides being powerful and performant.
The different drivetrain options allow each vehicle to fulfill its mission and meet the varied needs of drivers.
Here is the list of transmissions for the entire Cadillac range:
Introducing the Cadillac 4WD (4x4)
To start, it should be noted that the terms 4x4, 4WD, AWD, all-terrain vehicle, and four-wheel drive vehicle all belong to the family of integral transmissions with the same primary meaning: a drive that simultaneously powers both the front and rear axles.
It is important to remember that four-wheel drives (4x4) are the preferred choice for off-road adventures and less marked trails.
Among the entire range, only the Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a 4x4 drive on all its trims except for the V series. The same goes for the Escalade ESV.
The towing capacity of Cadillac SUVs shows surprising data, and the Escalade is no exception with an impressive towing capacity reaching 8,500 lbs.
Introducing the Cadillac AWD
Right from the start, when the engine permanently powers all four wheels of your vehicle, regardless of conditions, we are talking about all-wheel drive (AWD).
In this context, it is not incorrect to say that the Cadillac AWD range includes many vehicles with all-wheel drive, including the CT4 sedans, CT5, as well as the 2025 CT5-V Blackwing version.
| Models | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
|---|---|
| Cadillac CT4/CT4-V | All trims |
| Cadillac CT5/CT5-V | All trims |
| Cadillac XT4 | All trims |
| Cadillac XT5 | All trims |
| Cadillac XT6 | All trims |
| Escalade/Series V | All trims |
| Lyriq | All trims |
Introducing the Cadillac RWD (rear-wheel drive)
The best example we can present of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle is undoubtedly the fully electric Cadillac Lyriq.
This midsize luxury SUV benefits from a 102 kWh battery. While we indicated that the Lyriq is available with all-wheel drive, note that you can get the SUV with rear-wheel drive, known as rear-wheel propulsion.
Moreover, two gasoline models offer rear-wheel drive:
| Models | Gasoline Cadillac RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) |
|---|---|
| Cadillac CT4 | All trims + V-Blackwing |
| Cadillac CT5 | All trims + V-Blackwing |
| Lyriq | All trims |
Introducing the Cadillac FWD (front-wheel drive)
Unlike rear-wheel-drive vehicles that distribute power to the rear wheels (RWD), front-wheel drive (FWD) is a configuration where the engine sends power to the front wheels.
Many vehicles benefit from this type of drivetrain and there is one Cadillac FWD offering this option. Front-wheel drive vehicles are said to be more fuel-efficient.
At Cadillac, the XT5 offers this front-wheel drive option in the Luxury trim only.
In conclusion, we see that there is more than one type of transmission and Cadillac offers you the one that best meets your needs. You will have the choice between a Cadillac 4WD, a Cadillac 4x4, a Cadillac AWD, a Cadillac RWD, or a Cadillac FWD.
To keep your vehicle in top condition, consider having the transmission inspected during maintenance periods for tire change and alignment at Cadillac Laval; you can rely on our team.
Come discover the entire range of luxury vehicles at your Cadillac Laval dealership, near Montreal's North Shore, close to West Island and Blainville. Benefit from the advice of an experienced team, Cadillac offers and promotions. If you're thinking of buying or leasing a car, Cadillac financing solutions are available for both.
