The new Cadillac XTS represents an interesting move for the storied carmaker. While in other areas they are showing off their performance-oriented side, with the XTS they’ve put in a 3.6 Liter normally aspirated V-6 and either front or all-wheel-drive. The only really sporty things about the 2013 Cadillac XTS are a technologically advanced suspension setup and fact that Brembo made the front brakes. What the XTS is instead is a quality-built American luxury sedan that traditional Cadillac buyers will likely be satisfied with. It’s a somewhat refreshing product compared to some of the more forgettable Cadillacs of the past, like the STS, but is that enough to make it a car worth buying?
The 2013 XTS could best be described as stately, and those given the Platinum Collection treatment like our test car will feature a few more subtle details that make the XTS just a bit more of a standout from the big sedan crowd. Added to the Platinum Collection are a special grille design, unique 20-inch wheels, and illuminated front sill plates. The Platinum Collection is the fully loaded version of the XTS, and carries over styling features from the cheaper Luxury and Premium Collections as well, such as illuminating door handles. Our XTS also had the optional Black Diamond Tricoat paint, which we would describe as an old-school metallic paint that glitters in the sun. Neat when clean, but really dirty when just a little dirty.
