The Cadillac XTS: A Farewell to Traditional Luxury
The Cadillac XTS, a full-size luxury sedan, represents a bridge between Cadillac’s storied past and its ambitious future. As the final production model rolls off the assembly line, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the XTS’s strengths, shortcomings, and its place in Cadillac’s evolving identity.
A Familiar Face, a Comfortable Embrace
The XTS entered the market in 2013, aiming to offer a more traditional take on luxury than the sportier CTS. Its exterior design, while undeniably Cadillac, leans towards a more conservative aesthetic. The prominent grille, vertical LED light signatures, and long, sweeping lines evoke a sense of classic American luxury. While not groundbreaking, the design is elegant and recognizable.
Stepping inside, the XTS reveals its core strength: a spacious and comfortable cabin. The emphasis is on providing a relaxed and serene environment for both driver and passengers. Leather upholstery, wood trim, and soft-touch materials adorn nearly every surface. The seats are generously padded and offer ample support, making long journeys a pleasure.
Rear-seat passengers are particularly well-catered to. The XTS offers exceptional legroom, allowing adults to stretch out and relax. Available features like rear-seat climate controls, heated seats, and a power sunshade further enhance the experience.
Technology and Infotainment
The XTS features Cadillac’s CUE (Cadillac User Experience) infotainment system. While CUE has received its fair share of criticism over the years, it has undergone several updates that have improved its functionality and responsiveness. The system features a large touchscreen display that controls navigation, audio, climate, and other vehicle functions.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing seamless integration with smartphones. The XTS also offers a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Handling
The XTS is available with two engine options: a standard 3.6-liter V6 and an optional twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6. The standard engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, delivering smooth and refined acceleration. The twin-turbocharged engine, however, transforms the XTS into a surprisingly quick and capable machine. With 410 horsepower on tap, it delivers effortless acceleration and confident passing power.
The XTS prioritizes comfort over outright performance. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and compliant ride. While the handling is competent, it’s not as sharp or engaging as some of its competitors. The XTS is designed for relaxed cruising, not spirited driving.
Final Production Model: What’s Changed?
As the final production model, the XTS benefits from several refinements and improvements implemented over its lifespan. Cadillac has addressed some of the initial criticisms of the CUE infotainment system, making it more user-friendly and responsive. The interior materials have been upgraded, further enhancing the sense of luxury. The suspension has been tweaked to improve ride quality and handling.
Strengths
- Spacious and Comfortable Cabin: The XTS offers exceptional interior space, particularly in the rear seats. The seats are comfortable, and the materials are of high quality.
- Smooth and Refined Ride: The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable and compliant ride, making it ideal for long journeys.
- Available Twin-Turbocharged Engine: The optional twin-turbocharged engine delivers impressive performance.
- User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system has been updated and is now more user-friendly.
- Classic Cadillac Styling: It offers a familiar and appealing aesthetic.
Weaknesses
- Conservative Design: The exterior design may not appeal to those seeking a more modern or aggressive look.
- Handling: It is not as sharp or engaging as some of its competitors.
- Fuel Economy: The fuel economy is not as good as some of its competitors, especially with the twin-turbocharged engine.
- CUE Infotainment System (Earlier Versions): The earlier versions of the CUE infotainment system were criticized for being slow and difficult to use.
Legacy
The Cadillac XTS represents a transitional period for Cadillac. It embodies the traditional American luxury sedan while incorporating modern technology and features. While it may not be the most exciting or innovative vehicle, it offers a comfortable and refined driving experience.
The XTS has served as a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and luxurious sedan. It has also been a mainstay in the livery and chauffeur industries, thanks to its comfortable rear seats and ample trunk space.
As Cadillac moves towards a more performance-oriented and technologically advanced future, the XTS serves as a reminder of the brand’s heritage. It represents a time when luxury was defined by spaciousness, comfort, and refinement.
The Verdict
The Cadillac XTS is a solid choice for those seeking a spacious, comfortable, and luxurious sedan. While it may not be the most exciting or innovative vehicle, it offers a refined driving experience and a host of features. The final production model benefits from several refinements and improvements implemented over its lifespan, making it the best version of the XTS yet.
The XTS may not be a groundbreaking vehicle, but it is a well-executed one. It offers a blend of traditional luxury and modern technology that will appeal to a wide range of buyers. As the final production model rolls off the assembly line, the XTS leaves behind a legacy of comfort, refinement, and understated elegance. It will be remembered as a reliable and comfortable choice in the full-size luxury sedan segment.
Ultimately, the Cadillac XTS is a fitting farewell to a traditional approach to luxury. It’s a car that prioritizes comfort and space, offering a serene and enjoyable driving experience. While Cadillac moves forward with bolder designs and electrified powertrains, the XTS will remain a reminder of the brand’s heritage and its commitment to providing a comfortable and luxurious ride.
