2018 Cadillac XTS Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Cadillac has a longstanding tradition of producing well-built vehicles. The 2018 Cadillac XTS proves that this American automaker is still among the top luxury brands on the market. Not only does the full-size XTS provide a high level of passenger comfort, but it also delivers enough performance to put a grin on your face. An attractive starting price makes the new XTS an especially strong value.

What’s New for 2018?

This year, Cadillac has made a number of key improvements to the XTS. Every driver will benefit from the sedan’s revamped infotainment system and refreshed exterior styling.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Cadillac XTS – The Pros

1. Base Engine Offers Good Fuel Economy & Ample Performance

If you are like the majority of drivers, you will find the base engine to be quite satisfying. It is rated to produce a healthy 304 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. In real-world driving situations, the engine feels quite snappy. When it comes to fuel economy, you easily average up to 28 mpg on the highway.

2. V-Sport Model’s Turbocharged Engine

For the drivers who demand an extra degree of performance, Cadillac offers a turbocharged V6 engine. It pours out an exhilarating 410 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. You will certainly like the sedan’s blistering acceleration. When tested, the 2018 Cadillac XTS V-Sport clocked a swift 0-60 time of 5.3 seconds.

3. Very Sophisticated AWD System

The 2018 Cadillac XTS come standard with rear-wheel drive. However, you can opt for a sophisticated AWD system. A limited-slip differential enables the AWD models to maintain excellent traction in wet weather. Of course, all-wheel drive truly becomes a major asset on snowy days. Advanced sensors enable the system to immediately detect slippery conditions.

4. Remarkably Pleasant Ride

In the event you decide to take a long-distance road trip, the 2018 Cadillac XTS is bound to leave you impressed. Its top-notch ride quality helps ensure the optimum comfort. An adaptive Magnetic Ride Control suspension comes standard. It automatically adjusts to rough pavement. The end-result is a plush sedan that effortlessly soaks up bumps in the road.

5. Refreshed Exterior Styling

Cadillac designed the new XTS to have a slightly edgier appearance. While new fenders accentuate the sedan’s wide stance, a sleeker grille gives the XTS a more refined look. Everyone on the road will notice the sedan’s signature HID headlights. Meanwhile, available dual exhausts give the XTS an additional touch of sportiness. Flaunting a unique set of 20-inch wheels, the Platinum model certainly strikes a pose.

6. Base Model’s Economical Price

The base model is a great value that deserves some serious consideration. It has an appealing MSRP of $46,600, which makes it far more affordable than a similarly equipped European luxury sedan. Some of the standard features include an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, and a backup camera. Furthermore, the XTS benefits from a 36,000-mile service plan that covers basic maintenance.

7. Better Seat Comfort

For 2018, Cadillac decided to upgrade the sedan’s seats. The reshaped seats provide better overall support. This is good news for the folks who plan to spend a great deal of time on the road. To experience an even more lavish ride, step up to the Platinum model’s 22-way front seats. They feature a massaging function that gently strokes your body as you drive.

8. Much-Improved CUE Infotainment System

In the past, a lot of people complained about the CUE infotainment system’s complicated interface. Fortunately, Cadillac has tweaked it to be more user-friendly. The controls are now easier to operate while driving. You can even customize the display screen, which gives you quick access to your favorite smartphone apps. Most importantly, the next-generation CUE interface is faster than before.

9. 4G Wi-Fi Hot Spot

Like most people, you probably use the Internet on an everyday basis. Even the least expensive version of the 2018 Cadillac XTS benefits from a built-in Wi-Fi hot spot. It enables up to seven devices to be connected at the same time. This means all of your passengers will be able to quickly connect to the web.

10. Driver Awareness Package

Stamped with a five-star safety rating, the 2018 Cadillac XTS offers impressive impact protection. You can also opt for a helpful Driver Awareness package. It provides several advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning. When parking in busy cities, the package’s surround-view camera helps you to uncover hidden obstacles.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Cadillac XTS – The Cons

1. Less Engaging Than Some Rivals

Don’t expect the 2018 Cadillac XTS to drive like a sports car. While the XTS feels stable, it is not known for being a sharp-handling luxury sedan. It is designed to be a comfortable highway cruiser. If you demand a sportier driving experience, check out the new Lexus GS F and the Chrysler 300 S.

2. Expensive Top Trim

Most trims are reasonably priced. Nevertheless, be prepared to fork over a lot of money for the luxurious Platinum model. A fully loaded XTS Platinum can easily exceed $74,000. The average car buyer will consider the lower trim levels to be more attainable.

3. Large Size

This sedan’s large size can pose a problem in urban areas. Although an automated parallel-parking system is available, you will still need to pay close attention to your surroundings. This is especially true during busy hours.

How it Stacks up to the Competition:

Some of the key competitors include the 2018 Volvo S90 and the 2018 Audi A6. In comparison to the Audi A6, the 2018 Cadillac XTS is significantly less expensive. Meanwhile, the Volvo S90 packs less power under its hood. Furthermore, neither of these rival luxury sedans can be equipped with Cadillac’s vibrating Safety Alert Seat.

Conclusion:

The new 2018 Cadillac XTS is hands-down better than before. A long list of improvements has enabled it to rise towards the top of the segment. Although the XTS is not the sportiest car in the class, it promises to deliver a smooth performance on the road.