Large Cadillac sedans have developed a reputation over the years for putting comfort above all else. Though they floated and glided along the road like a cloud, they were also quite bland to drive and behind the times in terms of design. With the Cadillac XTS, however, that reputation has been put to rest. The XTS is sharper and more responsive to drive, yet it still maintains plenty of amenities and seating comfort.
Built on the same platform as the current Buick LaCrosse, the Cadillac XTS is powered by a detuned version of the V6 sourced from the current CTS. The XTS doesn't feel asleep or lethargic from behind the wheel, giving it the sensation that it is much smaller than its 17-foot-long and 6-foot-wide dimensions would seem to indicate. Overall, we like how the XTS separates itself from those lethargic Cadillac behemoths of the past. It's a savvy choice for a modern American large luxury sedan.
Current Cadillac XTS Specs
The Cadillac XTS is a large luxury sedan that's available in six trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium, Premium Vsport, Platinum and Platinum Vsport.
All trim levels other than the Vsport have a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 304 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is optional on all but the Base trim. The Vsport variants feature a turbocharged version of that engine that packs 410 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard with the turbo V6, as is a six-speed automatic.
The Base XTS comes equipped with an adaptive suspension, keyless ignition and entry, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, an eight-speaker Bose sound system and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Upgrading to the Luxury version adds heated rear seats, front parking sensors, a rearview camera and an automated parallel-parking system. The Premium's highlights include tri-zone automatic climate control, a navigation system, a 14-speaker Bose audio system and electronic driver aids. With the Platinum version, you also get 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof and some changes to interior and exterior styling. The sport versions include 20-inch wheels and the more powerful engine.
Although it looks pretty slick, the CUE (Cadillac User Experience) infotainment touchscreen interface can be slightly distracting and unresponsive at times. While this technology greatly reduces button clutter, someone accustomed to Cadillacs of yesteryear will have a slight adjustment to make. You won't have to make any adjustments in terms of being comfortable, however, as the cabin is expansive and provides headroom and legroom to spare. The trunk has an impressive 18 cubic feet of capacity.
In reviews, we noted that the base Cadillac XTS accelerates respectably, but the potent Vsport provides sports car-like acceleration. The XTS is large, yet doesn't feel big and lumbering from behind the wheel. There is some noticeable body roll when it's pushed harder, but the XTS doesn't wallow under its mass. At speed on the highway, the XTS is composed and impressively quiet. While there are several upsides to this relatively new Cadillac, the most notable is the value it provides compared to its full-size European rivals. The Caddy offers you refinement and relaxation without a hefty price tag, and for that alone it's worth your time.
Used Cadillac XTS Models
The XTS was introduced for 2013 when it effectively replaced the DTS and STS sedans in Cadillac's lineup. The Vsport version didn't arrive until 2014.
Read the most recent 2018 Cadillac XTS review.
If you are looking for older years, visit our used Cadillac XTS page.
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