Test Drive: 2013 Cadillac XTS Sedan

?Cadillac develops new luxury formula with the 2013 Cadillac XTS sedan?

2013 Cadillac XTS

Cadillac XTS ?bursts into Spring with the addition of the all-new 2013 Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan. Positioned directly above Cadillac?s CTS lineup, the XTS is a larger, four-door, five-passenger, premium sedan and is the most technologically advanced production car in the marque?s history. Power will be provided by a 3.6-liter, DOHC, 24-valve, V6 with VVT and Direct Fuel Injection that delivers 300 horsepower at 6,800 rpm (est.) along with 264 -pound feet of torque at 5,300 rpm (est.).

The engine is transversely mounted up front and will connect to a Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission that meters the car?s driving force to either the front wheels (FWD) or to all four wheels (4WD).

2013 Cadillac XTS - Engine
The XTS comes as a well-equipped standard model with three optional collections: Luxury, Premium and Platinum. XTS Platinum represents the highest level of technology and luxury, including a unique front appearance, wheels, interior colors, materials and trim.

Features for all collection models include: the Direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds; an advanced all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential; Magnetic Ride Control, rear air springs, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo front brakes ? all as standard fare; standard 19-inch wheels or available 20-inch alloy wheels; capless fuel tank filler for an easier, cleaner refueling operation; folding rear-seat head restraints that improve rear visibility;? a Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver and intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions; short- and long-range radar systems that support adaptive cruise control, front/rear automatic brakes and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

XTS also marks the debut of CUE, Cadillac?s innovative in-vehicle user experience that enhances control and connectivity, merging intuitive design with auto industry-first controls for information and media control. CUE is a standard feature on all models. It is a highly customizable user interface exemplifying XTS?s combination of advanced technology and artistic design. CUE stands for Cadillac User Experience and is at the heart of an eight-inch screen located in the center stack, the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls.

CUE features several industry firsts, including capacitive-touch control (Capacitive touch is the technology featured on many of the best tablets and smartphones) with proximity sensing, haptic feedback, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.

2013 Cadillac XTS - InteriorExclusively available on the XTS is a 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable instrument cluster that features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS?s technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car?s design, capabilities and performance

As part of the customer experience, each buyer of the 2013 Cadillac XTS will receive an iPad. A new CUE iPad Application, that replicates the center screen and that is the hub of the system, was used to familiarize dealers with the experience, as well as provide videos and information.

In terms of its visual allure, XTS?s surface details convey a design philosophy with more nuances — elements that support the long, sleek proportion that is a reflection of Cadillac?s heritage. More beauty and elegance are in evidence with refined, graceful forms and surfaces that work harmoniously with established linear forms. XTS is a car that conveys the forward direction of Cadillac form and DNA.

2013 Cadillac XTS - RearAs with the exterior, the cabin of the XTS displays a multidimensional philosophy in a bold, sophisticated styling that is also ergonomically inviting. Cadillac?s new expression of luxury is epitomized through the use of premium materials and unprecedented connectivity. Platinum Collection models feature a fully wrapped leather interior with a microfiber sueded headliner, along with premium wood trim accents on the steering wheel, console, center stack, instrument panel and door panels. Seating trim is offered with Soleil Keisel surfaces or premium Opus full leather ? both with perforated detailing. Heated and ventilated seats are also offered.

I was afforded the opportunity to pilot this luxury Cadillac craft in Platinum Collection trim with a Silver Coast metallic exterior finish, complemented by a Shale toned interior with Cocoa accents. The Platinum Collection price tag was set at $59,080 which came to $60,000. after adding for Destination and Handling

SUMMARY:? The 2013 Cadillac XTS Platinum Collection exemplifies the past glory days of Cadillac, but in a much more refined and sophisticated manner. The interior is luxurious and sumptuous, while providing the ultimate in personal connectivity through CUE.

XTS features OnStar as a standard feature, using GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a collision. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information and OnStar services via the customer?s smartphone.

The XTS?s exterior is both elegant and contemporary without being overly edgy, but also without losing touch with Cadillac?s latest design language. The XTS truly redefines Cadillac?s luxury philosophy with a welcome modernization. It not your Deville or El Dorado of yesteryear, but it manages to equal or surpass the same level of class and taste once prevalent in the brand. The XTS still makes a bold statement about one?s station in life, but without being pretentious or ostentatious.

2013 Cadillac XTS - Wheels?Cadillac has been a leading luxury automobile brand since 1902 and has of late initiated a renaissance through artful engineering and advanced technology – a continuance if you will, of the marque?s philosophical ?Art and Science? movement. The XTS is representative of Cadillac?s forward progress in recapturing its position as the leader of the domestic luxury marketplace.
2013 Cadillac XTS Luxury Sedan

SPECIFICATIONS: Cadillac XTS Platinum Collection Sedan -?13

Base Price: $59,080
Price as Tested: $60,000
Engine Type and Size: 3.6-liter, DOHC, 24-valve, V6 with VVT and Direct Fuel Injection
Horsepower (bhp): 300 @ 6,800 rpm – (est.)
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 264 @ 5,300 rpm – (est.)
Transmission: Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic
Drive Train: Transversely-mounted front engine / FWD or smart AWD with Haldex technology
Suspension: Front – High Performance strut coil-over-spring; twin- tube dampers with gas-charged valving; and hollow direct-acting stabilizer bar. Rear – Linked ?H?-arm with air shocks and Magnetic Ride Control
Brakes: Power assisted, split, dual-circuit ventilated four- wheel-Brembo discs with ABS, front and Rear Automatic Brakes, Intelligent Brake Assist and Stabilitrak
Tires: Goodyear Eagle RS-A – 245/40 R20? polished 5-spoke aluminum with chrome inserts
Wheelbase: 111.7 inches
Length Overall: 202.0 inches
Width: 72.9 inches
Height: 59.1 inches
Curb Weight: 3,995-4,180 lbs. – (FWD/AWD)
Fuel Capacity: 18.6 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 17 mpg city / 28 mpg highway FWD / 17/27 AWD
Drag Coefficient: Not listed
0 – 60 mph: Not tested

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