Cadillac XTS V-Sport Review: Unmatched Performance and Luxury

Introduction

Cadillac has reintroduced a faster version of the XTS featuring a twin-turbo engine known as the XTS V-Sport. This model boasts an impressive 100 horsepower more, along with aesthetic and interior updates. The XTS is designed for business professionals who are short on time and require a vehicle that is fast, comfortable, and equipped with advanced technology for seamless transportation. While driving performance may not be their primary concern, they value tranquility and comfort. The XTS meets these demands, and the XTS V-Sport does it even faster.

Elegance

This is one of the most stylish cars in its class, surpassing the Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5, and Audi A6. The car's longer dimensions give it a limousine-like feel, exuding luxury. Unlike the sporty appearance of the Infiniti M56 or Lexus GS350, this is not its aim. Every curve embodies the Cadillac emblem. While some may disagree, I believe this vehicle is perfectly designed for its target audience. Unique touches, such as illuminated door handles, especially stand out in the dark with their stunning HID and LED lights.

Interior

Quality

In my experience, the interior quality of the XTS is top-notch, possibly exceeding that of BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The cabin is fully leather-lined, accented with wood on the doors, dashboard, steering wheel, and between the seats.

Options and Interior Features

The Cadillac XTS comes equipped with a rear entertainment system featuring a foldable screen, similar to the BMW 5 Series. It offers parking assistance, adaptive brakes, adaptive cruise control, and the CUE system with a touchscreen. This screen may require some adjustment time; for instance, opening the glove compartment (which is also haptic) sometimes takes multiple attempts. The Bose sound system includes 14 speakers and a large 12.3-inch multifunction display, which is substantial. The 3D navigation system is user-friendly. Overall, its features outshine those of the Mercedes E-Class and M56.

Interior Space

The XTS V-Sport comfortably accommodates five passengers and offers a trunk space of 509 liters. The only model that exceeds this is the BMW 5 Series 550 i 2014. Besides that, it outperforms all others, including the M56, Lexus LS, Mercedes E-Class, and Audi A6.

Safety Features

I particularly appreciated the vibrating seat feature that alerts you to lane changes and blind spots. It's an excellent warning method. You might overlook a soft sound or a small light, but you'll definitely notice the vibration! Additionally, it provides visual and auditory alerts. There is also parking assistance and collision warning, although it doesn't quite match the safety features of BMW and Mercedes, which offer more advanced options such as attention assist and knee airbags.

Driving Performance

Power and Acceleration

This is the essence of the V-Sport: to provide a more powerful alternative to the XTS. The twin-turbo engine delivers 440 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, making the drive from Abu Dhabi to Dubai feel as easy as a trip to the grocery store. Priced at 290,000 AED, you won’t find another car offering this level of power. The only competitor is the BMW 5 Series 550i 2014, which has 450 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque but comes at a significantly higher price.

Suspension and Handling

Cadillac claims to have the fastest suspension system in the world, known as “Magnetic Ride Control”. It is incredibly comfortable, and you won’t feel the bumps. You can adjust the suspension to a sportier setting, but it doesn't significantly impact the ride. And why would you want it to? This vehicle isn't designed to be sporty. You will feel the corners, but that isn't the purpose of this car. It is designed for fast, straight-line driving with comfort and luxury.

Conclusion

The price of the car is 40,000 to 50,000 AED more than the XTS. If you frequently embark on long journeys, this car will suit you perfectly. Otherwise, consider the standard XTS. The elegance of this car makes it a worthy competitor against the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series.