The Cadillac XTS: A Look Back at a Luxurious Sedan
The Cadillac XTS, short for X-Series Touring Sedan, was a full-size luxury sedan produced by the American automaker Cadillac from 2013 to 2019. Slotted above the CTS sedan, the XTS offered a blend of comfort, technology, and powerful performance, aimed at those seeking a spacious and refined driving experience.
A Design for Discerning Drivers
The XTS boasted a sculpted exterior design that embodied Cadillac's signature bold and elegant look. The long hood and flowing lines created a sense of dynamism, while the prominent grille and sharp character lines exuded an air of sophistication. Standard features like HID headlamps and LED taillights added a touch of modern flair.
Inside, the XTS's cabin was a haven of luxury. High-quality materials like leather and wood trim adorned the surfaces, while the spacious interior offered ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. Heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system further enhanced the comfort and entertainment experience.
Trim Levels and Feature Abundance
The XTS was offered in four trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Platinum. Each trim progressively added more features and amenities. Standard features across all trims included an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, a Bose sound system, and a suite of safety features like traction control and stability control.
Higher trims offered upgrades like a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim truly lived up to its name, boasting features like a semi-aniline leather interior, a massaging driver's seat, and active noise cancellation for an ultra-quiet cabin.
Engine Options for Power and Performance
The XTS came equipped with two engine options, catering to different driving preferences. The standard engine was a 3.6L V6 that produced 304 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. For those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience, the XTS VSport offered a twin-turbocharged 3.6L V6 engine that pumped out an impressive 410 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This potent engine propelled the XTS VSport from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.0 seconds, putting it in competition with some European performance sedans.
Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that offered smooth and responsive gear changes. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option for those who needed extra traction in snow or slippery conditions.
Technology and Safety Features
The XTS was packed with cutting-edge technology features designed to enhance the driving experience and safety. The CUE infotainment system, while not the most user-friendly on the market, offered a variety of features like voice recognition, navigation, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
On the safety front, the XTS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. These included blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic braking, and a full suite of airbags. The XTS received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it a secure choice for families.
A Discontinued Legacy
Despite its luxurious features and strong performance, Cadillac decided to discontinue the XTS in 2019. The reasons for this decision were likely due to declining sales in the sedan segment as consumers shifted towards SUVs and crossovers. Additionally, the rise of electric and hybrid vehicles may have also played a role in Cadillac's decision to focus its resources on developing new models in these segments.
A Luxurious Choice on the Used Market
The Cadillac XTS remains a compelling option for those seeking a luxurious and feature-rich sedan on the used car market. With its spacious interior, powerful engines, and array of technology and safety features, the XTS offers excellent value for the price. If you're looking for a comfortable and refined driving experience, the Cadillac XTS is definitely worth considering, especially for those who find themselves drawn to the prestige and legacy of the Cadillac brand.
In Conclusion
The Cadillac XTS, though no longer in production, represents a chapter in Cadillac's history of producing luxurious and powerful sedans. While its discontinuation reflects the changing automotive landscape, the XTS remains a capable and comfortable choice for those seeking a premium pre-owned sedan.
