"The six-speed automatic doesn't always want to downshift when you ask for it, but for its size, the XTS handles respectably (though the steering could provide more feedback). Ride comfort is excellent thanks to the available Magnetic Ride Control system." - Motortrend
Engine and Transmission
The XTS sedan is powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 rated at 304 hp and 264 pulling force mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The twin-turbocharged engine is available only in V-Sport Platinum trim and offers a satisfactory driving experience if you are in the mood to gun it.
The Cadillac with the standard V6 is an everyday driver with smooth and refined levels of performance and power provided at the get-go however its transmission has a slight hesitance when downshifting. The XTS, however, feels more impressive at higher speeds and shines best during the same.
Its competition offers similar powertrains with outputs varying by just a few horses. If we'd have to crown the best of the rest, the Genesis G80 takes the crown simply due to the fact Genesis G80 has more torque and horsepower.
Model
|
Cadillac XTS
|
Chrysler 300 S
|
Lincoln Continental
|
Genesis G80
|
Lexus GS 350
|
MSRP
|
$46,895
|
$36,395
|
$46,145
|
$43,045
|
$50,765
|
Engine
|
3.6L SIDI DOHC V6
|
3.6 Liter V6
|
3.7L Ti-VCT V6
|
3.8L V6
|
3.5L V6
|
Transmission
|
6-Speed Automatic
|
8 Speed Automatic
|
6-Speed Automatic
|
8 Speed automatic
|
6-Speed Automatic
|
Power
|
304 hp @ 6800 rpm
|
300 hp@ 6350 rpm
|
305 hp @ 6600 rpm
|
311 hp@ 6000rpm
|
311 hp @ 6200 rpm
|
Torque
|
264 lb-ft @ 5300 rpm
|
264 ft-lbs@ 4800 rpm
|
280 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
|
293 ft-lbs@ 5000rpm
|
280 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
|
Acceleration
In its acceleration, the XTS powered by the 304 hp 3.6L V-6 engine is adapted for daily use and can scoot the XTS 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds. However, the rest of the V6s in the field are quicker than the Cadillac. The most rapid accelerator here is the Lexus GS 350 with a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds.
Model
|
Cadillac XTS
|
Chrysler 300 S
|
Lincoln Continental
|
Genesis G80
|
Lexus GS 350
|
0-60 mph
|
6.7 sec
|
5.3
|
5.8 sec
|
6.3 sec
|
5.5 sec
|
Quarter Mile
|
15.2 sec
|
13.9
|
14 sec
|
14.6 sec
|
14 sec
|
Engine
|
3.6L
|
3.6L V6
|
3.7L
|
3.8L V6
|
3.5L
|
Emission
(Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
|
8.0
|
N/A
|
8.8
|
8.9
|
N/A
|
Ride and Handling
Cadillac offers a pleasant experience to the back seat passengers a well as the driver, effective Suspension damping system and plenty of sound deadening provide a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride. Available All-wheel-drive system maximizes stability and handling by delivering optimal control over the vehicle in less than perfect driving conditions.
The most notable feature is the magnetic ride control available in the Premium Luxury trim. This technology involves suspension dampers filled with magnetic fluid that can alter its viscosity according to the conditions. So if you want a comfortable ride, the suspension stays compliant. However, when you are driving the XTS with enthusiasm, the dampers are stiffened and hence the handling becomes sharper.
Braking
On its braking aspect, the Cadillac XTS features Brembo brakes resulting in impeccable stopping performance. Even at highway speeds, the car doesn't falter. Rather it stays stable and braking is always consistent. XTS is the second lightest vehicle in its competitive set and stops in 116 feet from 60mph which is almost equal to the rivals and better than Lexus GS 350.
Model
|
Cadillac XTS
|
Chrysler 300 S
|
Lincoln Continental
|
Genesis G80
|
Lexus GS 350
|
60 - 0 mph
|
116
|
N/A
|
13.9
|
13.6
|
N/A
|
Curb Weight (lbs.)
|
4021
|
4013
|
13.6
|
12.4
|
3981
|
Brake (Front)
|
13.6
|
12.6
|
4224
|
4195
|
13.1
|
Brake (Rear)
|
12.4
|
12.6
|
110
|
167
|
12.2
|