Used 2015 Cadillac XTS

Where Cadillac was once the envy of the world, it now finds itself struggling to compete with it. Models like the CTS-V and ATS have captured the attention of younger buyers, but the company must also balance the needs of its older, wealthier customer base. That’s where the 2015 Cadillac XTS luxury-performance sedan comes into play. Although not as large as an Audi A8, the XTS nevertheless is Cadillac’s flagship vehicle, demonstrating the razor-sharp styling that has become the company’s hallmark. If there is an Achilles heel in the XTS’ design, it’s the somewhat complex CUE information and entertainment system. Still, when placed side-by-side with the Lexus GS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and even the BMW 5 Series, the XTS proves a worthy competitor.

The 2015 Cadillac XTS luxury sedan straddles the fence between pampering comfort and aggressive performance. It’s a spot many luxury-car buyers will probably find quite appealing. The XTS excels on the American highway, were vast expanses of concrete free it to cruise effortlessly regardless of road conditions. Credit the standard Magnetic Ride Control that constantly adapts to varying road conditions in just milliseconds. We also have high praise for the hydraulically assisted steering system used exclusively on the all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. The XTS’ cabin is so isolated from outside noise we weren’t even sure the engine was running until we checked the tachometer, which assured us it was. Power from the standard V6 isn’t superb, but at 305 horsepower we can’t claim a deficit, either. Those in the know, however, will likely opt for the 410 horsepower found on the optional twin-turbocharged V6.

Step inside the Cadillac XTS for 2015 and you will see a rich, impeccably assembled cabin. Comfortable, leather-trimmed seats are standard, and top-line models also get leather-wrapped interior panels. The 3-passenger rear seat offers good legroom, and a massive, 18-cubic-foot trunk can swallow five or more suitcases. But not all is perfect inside the XTS. While the standard 8-inch touch-screen center controller is visually appealing and offers haptic feedback (in which the screen feels like it’s touching you back), the standard CUE system is unintuitive. It requires a steep learning curve to operate what should be simple functions like audio and climate settings.

The 2015 Cadillac XTS has the angular, wedge-like profile of its CTS and ATS sedan siblings, but in longer and larger form. Design highlights include windswept headlights and side creases. Befitting this large sedan are sizable wheels: 19 inches on most models and 20-inch versions on high-end trims. Twin exhaust outlets also lend a sporty feel. All-wheel-drive models have "XTS4" badging to indicate all wheels being driven. Less obvious, but helpful, is a capless fuel-filling system that means you’ll never have to unscrew a cap before refueling. The XTS also has a massive trunk.

DRIVER AWARENESS PACKAGE
Cadillac is known for its long history of innovation, and this advanced safety system proves the company’s still got it. The package includes blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning and forward-collision alert. But, it also features a driver seat that vibrates to alert the driver of unintended lane changes or an eminent collision.

HEAD-UP DISPLAY
The XTS luxury sedan for 2015 offers an enhanced head-up system with a full color display that includes such useful postings as speed-limit reminders and navigation instructions.

Even if you spend the least on a base model XTS, you’ll be getting a lot for your money. Among the niceties are dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable steering wheel, rear parking assist, and an 8-speaker Bose sound system with CD/HD Radio, streaming Bluetooth audio and USB inputs. Stepping up trims brings features like a rearview camera, heated and ventilated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a 12.3-inch driver-information display, and the Driver Awareness Package. Safety features include 10 airbags, GM’s OnStar communications service with automatic crash response, and Brembo performance brakes. Complimentary maintenance is standard for four years or 50,000 miles.

All-wheel drive is available on base V6 versions of the 2015 Cadillac XTS (it’s standard on turbocharged models). Other options vary by trim and include navigation, a 14-speaker Bose Studio Surround Sound audio system, a dual-screen rear-seat DVD entertainment system and a sunroof. The new Parking Assist feature included in higher trims enables the XTS to parallel park itself with minimal driver input. Added safety is available with the Driver Assist Package that includes adaptive cruise control and automatic braking in both forward and reverse if the system senses an impending collision.

Two engine choices are available in the 2015 Cadillac XTS. Base models use a 3.6-liter, direct-injected V6 that produces 305 horsepower. Those seeking more oomph should look to the twin-turbocharged version of that engine, which boosts pony count appreciably to 410 horsepower. The base engine can be had with all-wheel drive instead of the standard front-wheel drive (FWD), while turbo models come exclusively with all-wheel-drive. The AWD in the XTS uses Haldex technology and a limited-slip differential to transfer power front-to-back and side-to-side. It’s helpful in Snowbelt states where traction can be compromised. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The standard V6 runs on regular unleaded, while the turbo one requires premium fuel.

3.6-liter V6
305 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm
264 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/28 mpg (FWD), 17/26 mpg (AWD)

3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6
410 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
369 lb-ft of torque @ 1,900-5,600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/24 mpg