Cadillac’s new XTS concept debuts

Cadillac’s replacement for the full-sized DTS and nearly full-sized STS looks like a compelling, if overly safe play.

The XTS rides on a further evolution of the front-/all-wheel-drive Epsilon platform—the largest yet—and likely has the Buick LaCrosse as its closest relative. The XTS’s 111.7-inch wheelbase matches that of the LaCrosse, while its length of 203.5 inches is a substantial 6.5 inches longer than the already-long Buick’s. We expect the production Caddy’s dimensions to stay the same. Some of the details, however, will be lost in the traditional watering down that occurs between the design studio and the assembly line.

And the details are many. The XTS Premium concept pairs the direct-injected 3.6-liter V-6 from the LaCrosse with a plug-in hybrid system; total system output is estimated at 350 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. As that power is too much for front-drive to handle, the concept uses an all-wheel-drive system that will certainly be offered on a production XTS if it doesn’t come standard. The hybrid powertrain is also likely to closely follow nonhybrid models out the factory door. The suspension gets adjustable magnetorheological shocks that should allow drivers to choose either a supple or sporty character for the ride and handling.

via Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept – Auto Shows – Car and Driver.

Cadillac's XTS concept looks close to production.

The sporty STS dates from 2005, and the DTS has roots going back all the way to 2000, so a fresh design is certainly in order. The XTS, which is officially a concept at this point, seems like a good step for the company as it combines evolutionary styling with an advanced drivetrain. The Epsilon platform has been giving good service for years – it underpins Saab’s competent 9-3 and the current Chevy Malibu, the best sedan that marque has ever produced – so the basic competence is there.