The Good
The 2019 Cadillac XTS offers a supremely comfortable and spacious ride, appealing to those seeking a serene journey. Its elegant design projects a stately presence (emotional), while available V-Sport provides strong performance. From a practical standpoint, it offers robust reliability for its class and, as a used vehicle, presents significant luxury value due to depreciation, making premium features more accessible.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 2019 Cadillac XTS include the sometimes finicky Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system, which can be slow or unresponsive. Its large size may make parking challenging for some, and while comfortable, its handling isn't as sporty as some European rivals. Fuel economy, especially with the V-Sport's twin-turbo engine, can also be a concern.
2019 Cadillac XTS: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L V6 (LGX) producing 304 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque (standard on most trims).
- 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 (LF3) producing 410 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (exclusive to V-Sport Platinum).
- Horsepower:
- 304 hp (naturally aspirated 3.6L V6)
- 410 hp (twin-turbo 3.6L V6 V-Sport)
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- FWD 3.6L V6: 19 MPG city / 28 MPG highway
- AWD 3.6L V6: 18 MPG city / 26 MPG highway
- AWD 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 (V-Sport): 16 MPG city / 23 MPG highway
- 0-60 MPH Times (Approximate):
- 3.6L V6 FWD: 6.5 seconds
- 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 AWD (V-Sport): 5.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not officially rated for significant towing. Typically, vehicles in this class are not designed for towing; generally limited to under 1,000 lbs if equipped with a suitable hitch for light loads only.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Standard: Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment with 8-inch touchscreen, Bose premium 8-speaker audio, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, rearview camera, keyless access and start.
- Luxury: Adds leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, built-in navigation, power-folding side mirrors, front parking sensors, automatic dimming rear-view mirror.
- Premium Luxury: Builds on Luxury with ventilated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, 12.3-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster, head-up display, active noise cancellation, optional advanced safety features (e.g., adaptive cruise control).
- Platinum: Features semi-aniline leather, extended leather trim, sueded microfiber headliner, 20-inch wheels, advanced safety suite (including forward collision alert, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring), upgraded 14-speaker Bose surround sound system, massaging front seats.
- V-Sport Platinum: Incorporates all Platinum features, adding the more powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, performance-tuned all-wheel drive, Brembo front brakes, specific grille and styling cues, and a sportier driving experience.
2019 Cadillac XTS Specifications
Vehicle History Report
What Problems Does the 2019 Cadillac XTS Have?
The most common complaint centers around the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system. Owners frequently report it being slow, unresponsive to touch inputs, or freezing, sometimes requiring a system reset. While software updates have addressed some issues, the hardware itself can still feel dated compared to rivals. Screen delamination, where the screen develops bubbles or becomes completely unresponsive, has also been reported, though less common on later model years like 2019.
HVAC system issues, particularly with blend door actuators failing, can lead to inconsistent cabin temperatures or odd noises from behind the dashboard. This is not unique to the 2019 XTS but is a known point of failure in many GM vehicles.
Some owners have reported minor electrical gremlins, such as issues with power windows, door locks, or various sensors. While not widespread, these can be frustrating and costly to diagnose and repair at luxury dealership rates.
Regarding recalls, the 2019 Cadillac XTS has had a few. For instance, NHTSA Campaign Number 19V086000 addressed a potential issue with the front seat belt retractors not locking as designed, which could increase injury risk in a crash. Another recall, 19V648000, involved the rearview camera display, where the image might not be displayed or could be degraded, violating federal safety standards. Owners should always check if all recall campaigns have been performed on any used XTS they consider.
Long-term reliability is generally good for the powertrain, particularly the naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 engine, which has a solid track record. However, as the vehicle ages and accumulates higher mileage, common luxury car issues like suspension component wear (e.g., shocks, struts with Magnetic Ride Control), power steering fluid leaks, or transmission harshness can emerge. Regular and diligent maintenance is crucial to mitigating these potential long-term concerns and ensuring a durable ownership experience.
How long will the 2019 Cadillac XTS last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Tech & Entertainment: The centerpiece is the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen (a larger 12.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge cluster is standard on Premium Luxury and higher trims). CUE includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. Navigation, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and Bluetooth connectivity are also standard or available depending on the trim. Sound is delivered via a Bose premium audio system, with an 8-speaker setup standard and an upgraded 14-speaker Bose Studio Surround Sound system available on higher trims like Platinum.
Driver-Assistance Features:
- Standard: Rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are standard across all trims.
- Optional/Higher Trims: A suite of advanced driver-assistance systems is available, often grouped into packages. These include Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist with Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Automatic Parking Assist (for parallel and perpendicular parking), Safety Alert Seat (vibrates the seat to warn of potential dangers), and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Safety Features: The XTS comes standard with ten airbags, including front, side, knee, and head curtain airbags for both front and rear occupants. Traction control, stability control, and ABS are also standard.
Crash-Test Ratings:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): The 2019 Cadillac XTS received an overall 5-star safety rating, indicating excellent performance in crash tests.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): The XTS earned "Good" ratings in most crashworthiness tests, including moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraints & seats. It received an "Acceptable" rating in the challenging small overlap front (driver's side) test. When equipped with optional front crash prevention systems, it achieved "Superior" or "Advanced" ratings for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian mitigation, respectively. Headlights typically received "Acceptable" or "Marginal" ratings depending on the trim and options.
What Colors Options are Available?
2019 Cadillac XTS Prices and Market Value
Currently, in the used market, a 2019 XTS typically ranges from about $18,000 to $35,000+, depending significantly on mileage, condition, trim level, and optional features. This represents substantial depreciation, which is characteristic of large American luxury sedans. Luxury models, while well-equipped, experience steeper depreciation than the more exclusive Platinum and V-Sport trims. Factors affecting resale value include a clean title, comprehensive service history, low mileage, the presence of desirable packages (e.g., advanced safety), and overall cosmetic and mechanical condition. The XTS's depreciation makes it an excellent value for used car buyers seeking luxury at a significant discount.
2019 Cadillac XTS Cost of Ownership
2019 Cadillac XTS Fuel Efficiency
2019 Cadillac XTS Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2019 Cadillac XTS Compare to Other Vehicle?
Performance: The standard XTS with its 304-hp V6 offers a smooth, capable ride but isn't as sporty as most German rivals. The V-Sport, however, with its 410-hp twin-turbo V6, closes the gap significantly with offerings like the E450 or 540i, delivering strong acceleration. The Lexus ES is generally less performance-focused, prioritizing comfort, while the Lincoln Continental offers comparable power but also leans towards comfort over sportiness.
Features: The XTS comes well-equipped, especially in higher trims, offering luxury appointments, advanced safety tech, and comfort features. However, its CUE infotainment system is often criticized for being less intuitive and responsive than systems found in Mercedes-Benz's MBUX, BMW's iDrive, or Audi's MMI. The Lexus ES typically offers a more user-friendly, albeit less flashy, infotainment experience. The Lincoln Continental provides a similarly opulent and feature-rich interior, often with unique touches like 'Perfect Position' seats.
Reliability: The XTS generally boasts solid reliability for a luxury car, especially its powertrains. However, the CUE system can be a weak point. Lexus ES is often considered the benchmark for reliability in this class. German rivals, while technologically advanced, can incur higher long-term maintenance and repair costs due to complex systems. The Continental's reliability is comparable to the XTS.
Price: New, the XTS was competitively priced, often undercutting similarly equipped German rivals. On the used market, this is where the XTS shines. Its significant depreciation makes it a fantastic value, often available for thousands less than a comparable used E-Class or 5 Series, and competitive with the Lincoln Continental.
Alternatives & Recommendations:
- For unparalleled reliability and a more serene, less engaging drive: Lexus ES.
- For superior driving dynamics, cutting-edge tech (at higher cost), and prestige: Mercedes-Benz E-Class or BMW 5 Series.
- For a direct American luxury competitor focusing on comfort and value: Lincoln Continental.
The XTS is a strong contender if you prioritize spacious comfort, a quiet ride, and luxury features at a compelling used price, and are willing to overlook its less sporty handling and potential CUE quirks.
Final Verdict: Is the 2019 Cadillac XTS a Good Vehicle?
When considering a purchase, focusing on well-maintained examples with complete service records is crucial. The Luxury or Premium Luxury trims offer an excellent balance of features and value for most buyers. For enthusiasts desiring more power, the V-Sport Platinum is a compelling option, though it comes with higher fuel and maintenance costs. Be mindful of the CUE infotainment system's quirks, and ensure any recalls have been addressed. If you desire a stately, comfortable cruiser without paying new luxury car prices, the used 2019 XTS is a very solid choice.