2019 Cadillac XTS Pros vs Cons

The 2019 Cadillac XTS is a large luxury sedan that gives you more than enough space. Even the base model feels quite lavish on the inside. While the XTS is built to provide hours of comfort on the road, it's still sporty enough to keep drivers happy. This is especially true for the more powerful Platinum V-Sport model. Angular exterior styling also helps give the XTS a unique look. While the new XTS has a lot of good qualities, it suffers from a few imperfections as well.

What's New for 2019?

Not many changes were made to the 2019 Cadillac XTS. However, Cadillac did install an improved wireless smartphone charging pad.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2019 Cadillac XTS – The Pros

1. Base V6 Is Efficient

For most drivers, the best V6 engine will prove to deliver a satisfactory performance. It develops 304 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. You'll have no trouble accelerating past traffic on the highway. Fuel economy also isn't bad for a luxury car that weighs more than 4,000 pounds. According to the latest EPA estimates, you can anticipate getting 19 mpg in town and up to 28 mpg on the freeway. Regular unleaded gas is recommended.

2. Very Powerful Platinum V-Sport Model

Unlike the other trims, the 2019 Cadillac XTS Platinum V-Sport comes equipped with a turbocharged V6 engine. It's tuned to kick out a more exciting 410 horsepower. When you step on the gas pedal, the extra power will give you reason to smile. This sedan can hit 60 mph in a brisk 5.2 seconds. Because of the Platinum V-Sport model's standard AWD system, there's always plenty of grip.

3. Adjustable MagneRide Suspension

In its standard form, the 2019 Cadillac XTS delivers good ride comfort. However, don't hesitate to upgrade to the adjustable MagneRide suspension. It gives the XTS a plusher feel on the road. This suspension provides great cushioning on all road surfaces. The MagneRide suspension also enhances the sedan's handling. Although the XTS is a big car, it'll feels smaller when equipped with the upgraded suspension dampers. You'll be able to confidently dart around curves.

4. Strong Value for a Large Luxury Sedan

If you can't stomach paying $70,000 for a large luxury sedan, the 2019 Cadillac XTS will be prove to be a great option. Prices for the new model start at less than $47,000. Very few cars in the class deliver a more more luxurious ride for the price. Even the base XTS gives you the feeling of being in a premium car. Plenty of high-tech goodies come standard, including 4G Wi-Fi connectivity and a Bose premium sound system.

5. Surrounds You With an Extra Layer of Comfort

The 2019 Cadillac XTS is focused on providing all-day relaxation. Everyone in your family will enjoy long-distance cruising in the new XTS. It's interior gives your passengers ample space to unwind. There's 40 inches of legroom in the rear. Cushy, well-padded seats also help prevent stiffness on the rood. If you're seeking a greater sense of calm, consider getting the 22-way massaging front seats. The sedan's doors also swing open wide, which is a big help for seniors.

6. Bose Studio Surround Sound System

When traveling a long distance, music often makes the entire trip more rewarding. The standard Bose system sounds quite good. However, expect the available Bose Studio Surround Sound to deliver especially good audio clarity. You'll be enveloped by a total of 14 speakers. Embedded speakers in the front seats help optimize your music-listening experience. You can also dial up the volume without any worries.

7. Exclusive Styling

You won't find another luxury sedan in the class that looks like the 2019 Cadillac XTS. Last year, the sedan's styling was updated to create a more modern look. Cadillac's unique headlight design helps the XTS to stand out. A special set of 20-inch multispoke wheels come equipped on the Platinum models. Meanwhile, an exclusive grille helps set apart the V-Sport model. A total of nine exterior colors are now offered, including Red Horizon and Phantom Gray.

8. Driver Awareness Package

Moving past the base model gives you access to a Driver Awareness package. This suite of advanced safety technologies will heighten your sense of awareness while driving the 2019 Cadillac XTS. It comes with GM's advanced Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates when danger is detected. Meanwhile, low-speed automatic braking makes traveling in congested traffic less challenging. A surround-view parking camera and blind-spot monitoring also come with the package.

9. OnStar Communications System

GM's highly touted OnStar communications system is one of the most important features on the new 2019 Cadillac XTS. In the event that you are involved in a crash, built-in sensors enable OnStar to automatically contact emergency services. When heading out of town, you can also use OnStar to obtain driving directions.

10. Automated Parking Assist

Attempting to park in a busy area can be a nightmare for some drivers. Fortunately, Cadillac offers Automated Parking Assist. Not only can this system help you to locate a suitable parking spot, but it can also steer you into the space. This system works for both parallel and perpendicular parking.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2019 Cadillac XTS – The Cons

1. Some Models Have a Steep Price Tag

The 2019 Cadillac XTS is less expensive than a lot of rivals. Nevertheless, some trims are a bit steep. While the Platinum model costs more than $66,000, expect to pay more than $72,000 for the range-topping V-Sport Platinum Twin Turbo. Because the lower trims come equipped with such an array of premium features, you won't be compromising much luxury by settling.

2. Twin-Turbo Drinks More Fuel

Some drivers will want the more powerful turbocharged engine, which is found on the Platinum V-Sport model. However, they should consider the drop in fuel economy. The EPA rates the twin-turbocharged XTS to return 16 mpg in urban areas and 23 mpg on the highway. You also must use premium gas for maximum performance. There's no overlooking the base V6's greater fuel savings.

3. CUE Infotainment System a Step Behind

Cadillac's CUE infotainment system remains a step behind the competition. Although the unit offers straightforward smartphone integration, its buttons can be confusing. Some drivers would prefer a simpler interface. Chrysler's Uconnect infotainment system is far more rewarding to use.

4. Large Dashboard Cuts Into Passenger Space

Most passengers will have no problems with the sedan's front-seat space. Meanwhile, others will desire more wiggle room in the front. A large dashboard makes the XTS feel more confined than it should. You will also notice the oversized center console.

5. Base Engine May Not Be Powerful Enough

With more than 300 horsepower on tap, the base V6 engine has no issues moving the XTS. However, it feels a bit exhausted when hauling around five passengers and cargo. You will feel the sedan's more sluggish acceleration around town. An extra 30 horsepower would be more than welcomed.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

The 2019 Cadillac XTS rivals the 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS. If you're seeking the best possible handling, choose the Mercedes-Benz CLS. It's athletic chassis allows you to knife through corners. You'll also love the luxurious feel of the CLS. However, this European car will cost you a lot more money. Anticipate paying at least $70,000 for a base CLS.

Although the 2019 Chevrolet Impala may not offer as many luxurious upgrades as the Cadillac XTS, it's just as spacious. These two sedans are actually built on the same platform. Prices for the Impala start at roughly $28,000, which is significantly cheaper.

You should also consider the Cadillac CTS. From a performance standpoint, the Cadillac CTS is a lot more entertaining to drive than the Cadillac XTS. It offers class-leading handling. On the downside, your backseat passengers will be forced to sacrifice a lot of legroom.

Conclusion

Despite the questionable design of its infotainment system and lack of standard advanced safety features, the 2019 Cadillac XTS still proves to be a strong contender. It's a lot less expensive than most German competitors. While the base engine gets the job done, the turbocharged engine's enhanced performance is undeniable. Except for the base XTS, all-wheel drive is offered on every trim.