The Cadillac XTS is a full-size luxury sedan and is an amalgamation of luxury and comfort. With decent performing V6 unit under its hood, the 4-door sedan offers a smooth ride, quiet cabin, spacious seating and classic Cadillac styling. The American luxury car maker brings the 2019 Cadillac XTS, unchanged from its previous iteration.
The Cadillac XTS goes against the likes of Genesis G80, Lexus GS 350, and the Lincoln Continental. Where does the XTS place itself? Read on the review to find out.
Need soe time getting used to the infotainment system
What's New?
For the 2019 variant, Cadillac XTS has remained unchanged.
Features
vehicle bio
base price
$66195
bodystyle
4dr Sedan
passenger capacity
5
drivetrain
front wheel drive
engine type
displacement
217
horsepower
304 hp @ 6800 rpm
torque
264 lb.-ft. @ 5300 rpm
transmission
6-speed shiftable automatic
chassis
suspension front
Independent front strut suspension w/anti-roll bar
suspension rear
Independent rear multi-link suspension w/anti-roll bar
dimensions
wheelbase
111.7 in.
length
200.9 in.
width
72.9 in.
height
59.4 in.
curb weight
4021 lbs.
capacity
passenger volume
37.8 cu ft.
maximum towing capacity
1000
performance
zero to 60 mph
6.7 sec.
fuel economy
city/combined/highway
19/22/28 mpg
highway range
532.0 mi. mi.
warranty
basic warranty
4 yr./ 50000 mi.
drivetrain warranty
6 yr./ 70000 mi.
corrosion warranty
6 yr./ unlimited
roadside assistance
Yes
Pictures
exterior
interior
Trims
base $46,895 onwards
304 hp @ 6800 rpm | 3.6 L | V-6 | regular unleaded
Luxury $50,895 onwards
304 hp @ 6800 rpm | 3.6 L | V-6 | regular unleaded
Premium Luxury $57,295 onwards
304 hp @ 6800 rpm | 3.6 L | V-6 | regular unleaded
Platinum $66,195 onwards
304 hp @ 6800 rpm | 3.6 L | V-6 | regular unleaded
Colors and Styles
Black Raven
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Ratings
Features
7.5
Engine And Performance
7.7
Interior
7.0
7.4
OVERALL RATING
Expert Review, Pricing Analysis and Buying Guide
7.4
Overall Rating
The Cadillac XTS can be had in two engine options – a Naturally Aspirated 3.6L V-6 or an available 3.6L Twin Turbo V-6 engine exclusive to the V Sport trim. While FWD is standard on all other trims except V Sport, the optional AWD can be obtained for $2000 more. Let's dive into the world of the XTS. Shall we?
2019 Cadillac XTS Angular Front View
2019 Cadillac XTS Angular Rear View
7.5/10 Features
7.7/10 Engine and Performance
7.0/10 Interior
2019 Cadillac XTS Features
7.5/10
The Cadillac XTS is available in four different trim levels with a 3.6 L V-6 engine rated at 304-HP standard across all the trims. The V-Sport Platinum is equipped with 3.6L Twin Turbo V-6 engine rated at 410-HP is covered in a different article. FWD is standard across all the trims with an AWD option which makes a difference of roughly 2 grand.
Trims
XTS
Luxury
Premium Luxury
Platinum
MSRP (FWD)
$48,895
$50,895
$57,295
$66,195
MSRP (AWD)
N/A
$52,895
$59,495
$68,395
Features
Heated and ventilated front seats
INCLUDES OR REPLACES FEATURES ON XTS, PLUS:
INCLUDES OR REPLACES FEATURES ON LUXURY, PLUS:
INCLUDES OR REPLACES FEATURES ON PREMIUM LUXURY, PLUS:
Brembo front brakes, antilock, disc 4-wheel
14-speaker Bose Studio Surround sound system
22-way adjustable seats with massage
Semi-Aniline full leather seats
LED Headlamps
Cadillac user experience with embedded navigation
Magnetic Ride Control with Automatic Level Control
We Recommend
We suggest you go for the Premium Luxury trim as it offers great features for the price it demands. Also, opt for the Red Horizon Tintcoat as it accentuates the tasteful design of the XTS.
2019 Cadillac XTS Engine and Performance
7.7/10
"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
2019 Cadillac XTS Fuel Economy
Cadillac XTS houses a frugal powertrain in the full-size Luxury Sedan category. With the powerful V-6 engine, it is still capable of delivering a good mileage rating of 19mpg in the city and 28mpg ion the highway and a combined figure of 22mpg. The All-wheel drive system compromises the efficiency a little and is rated at 17mpg in the city and 26mph on the highway for a combined rating of 20 mpg which is still not bad for a large luxury car.
Model
Cadillac XTS
Chrysler 300 S
Lincoln Continental
Genesis G80
Lexus GS 350
MPG (City)
19
19
17
19
19
MPG (Hwy)
28
30
26
27
26
MPG (Combined)
22
23
20
22
21
2019 Cadillac XTS Interior
7.0/10
"The V-Sport falls on the rougher side of the luxury sports car meter. Seat and ride comfort are firm as a result. Still, the cabin remains as quiet as those of most competitors." - Edmunds
Seating & Comfort
The spacious cabin offers superior quality seating available with 22-way adjustable seats. Heated and ventilated seats and power-adjustable bolster puts you in extreme comfort position. The Platinum trim version is more beautiful on the inside with Leather-wrapped accents. The suede-microfiber headliner complete the impressive cabin detailing.
Model
Cadillac XTS
Chrysler 300 S
Lincoln Continental
Genesis G80
Lexus GS 350
Passenger Capacity
5
5
5
5
5
Passenger Volume (Ft.3)
104.2
106.3
106.4
107.7
99.0
Headroom (Front/Rear) (in.)
39.0/37.8
38.6/37.9
39.3/37.7
41.1/38.2
38.0/37.8
Legroom (Front/Rear) (in.)
42.1/40.0
41.8/40.1
44.4/41.3
45.7/35.0
42.3/36.8
Shoulder Room (Front/Rear) (in.)
57.9/56.3
59.5/57.7
58.3/55.9
58.3/57.1
57.3/55.7
This 4-door big sedan can comfortably accommodate 5 passengers with a cabin volume of 104.2 Cubic feet. But the Lincoln and Genesis G80 offers some exceptional numbers in terms of passenger volume space. Cadillac stands third in the competitive set with respect to headroom, legroom and shoulder room.
Infotainment System
The Cadillac XTS features a CUE 8" touchscreen infotainment system that houses a great set of features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is controlled via touch and control buttons sat under it. The performance of the system is average; it is responsive yet has a long learning curve, and its buttons feel resulting in an underwhelming system.
On Start 4G LTE and In-built Wifi
8" touchscreen
Wireless Charging
Remote Start
Reconfigurable Displays
Driver driving and Parking assistance Packages
Cargo Volume
The Cadillac XTS has a commendable and spacious 18 Cubic Feet of cargo volume. That's enough for a weekend worth of luggage. However, the GS 350 offers a tad more while the rest of the competition trail behind both these luxury sedans.
Model
Cadillac XTS
Chrysler 300 S
Lincoln Continental
Genesis G80
Lexus GS 350
Trunk Vol. (Ft.3)
18.0
16.3
16.7
15.3
18.4
Interior Features
4G LTE Hotspot
Air Filter
Dual-zone Auto Climate Control
Keyless Entry and Ignition
Ambient Lighting
2019 Cadillac XTS Exterior
"The 2019 Cadillac XTS has the angular, wedge-like profile of its CTS and ATS sedan siblings, but is longer and taller. That last trait, with the elongated window frame at the rear pillar, makes the XTS awkward to our eyes." -Kelley Blue Book
Design and Dimensions
With the use of Lightweight material and clever engineering, the American's Curb weight of lies at 4021 lbs which is second lightest in the competitive set, beaten by the GS 350. Its ground clearance is 5.0 inches.
Model
Cadillac XTS
Chrysler 300 S
Lincoln Continental
Genesis G80
Lexus GS 350
Curb Weight (lbs.)
4021
4380
4224
4195
3981
Length (in)
200.9
198.6
201.4
196.5
192.1
Width (in)
72.9
75
75.3
74.4
72.4
Height (in)
59.4
58.7
58.5
58.3
57.3
Ground Clearance (in)
5.0
4.7
5.5
5.3
5.1
Wheelbase (in)
111.7
120.2
117.9
118.5
112.2
Track Width -Front/Rear (in)
61.7/62
63.4/63.8
63.2/64.1
64.1/65.3
62.0/62.6
The exterior shell of the 2019 XTS remains unchanged from its predecessor, which received a mid-cycle refresh. It brought in a redesigned grille that houses the Cadillac badge along with a new set of wheels and LED headlamps.
Exterior Features
Ultraview Power Sunroof
Crisp LED Headlamps
Sleek LED Taillamps
Concierge Lighting
Redesigned Alloy Wheels
Rear window/side-window power sunshade
2019 Cadillac XTS Safety
Some of the Safety and Security features:
Lane Keep Assitance
Lane Change Alert
Forward Collision Alert
Automatic Crash Response
Dual Front and Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags
Traction Control
Turn Signal Mirrors
2019 Cadillac XTS Competition
Cadillac XTS vs Lincoln Continental Premier
Priced almost the same, both the sedans clearly show similarity in terms of fuel economy and design styling. Performance and quality are slightly better in the Lincoln Continental Premier, but in terms of comfort and infotainment system, the Cadillac XTS is the better deal. It depends on which American brand you'd want to be behind the wheels.
Cadillac XTS vs Lexus GS 350
The Lexus provides greater power and higher torque and thus, is a better car if performance is your top priority. Although the Cadillac provides a spacious cabin, it falls down with respect to total curb weight and braking power. Lexus GS 350 is a perfect choice if you're ready to spend around 5 grand more.
Cadillac XTS vs Genesis G80
Both of these 4-door sedans give tough competition to each other in almost all the parameters - performance under the hood, fuel economy, and engine specifications. Slight variation in transmission and an increase in passenger volume is mainly noticed in Genesis G80 when compared with Cadillac XTS. Genesis lacks a smart infotainment system (relatively less painful in the XTS) and a few luxury features. So you really want to enjoy the smart features then go for Cadillac XTS.
2019 Cadillac XTS Final Verdict
At its sticker MSRP, Cadillac XTS offers the spaciousness and comfort of a full-size luxury sedan at a price that's on par with some mid-size sedans. If this impresses you, go for it. For those looking for a bit more of sportiness and athleticism, you'd be pleased with the Cadillac XTS V-Sport trim. However, the competitors are equally impressive and it's worth considering the options.