2019 Cadillac XTS Review: Reliable Full Size Luxury Sedan With Reasonable Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter
Aug 31, 2023

The 2019 Cadillac XTS lasts around 200,000 miles with some relatively minor stereo system and paint quality issues reported. At $32,350 to $57,250, it’s a decent value for a large luxury sedan with a cloud-like suspension.

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likeFilled The Good
There’s tons of passenger room throughout the cabin, the seats are very comfortable and some advanced safety technology is available.
dislikeFilled The Bad
The controls on the dash feel cheap for a luxury car, the trunk opening is small and the base engine isn’t strong enough for the weight of the XTS.

Is the 2019 Cadillac XTS a Good Used Car?

  • Overall Rating 8/10 – 2019 is a good year for the Cadillac XTS since it offers plenty of luxury features for the money. Owner reviews praise the affordable ownership costs, the optional stereo system, along with the very smooth suspension.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are luxurious for a sedan, the seats are very comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also great in the large trunk.
  • Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2019 Cadillac XTS. Avoid models from 2013 since they have electrical issues, in general 20142019 are dependable.
  • Performance 8/10 – The base V6 engine offers reasonable power, while the turbocharged motor is reasonably quick for a full-size sedan.
  • Safety 8/10 – The 2019 XTS is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera and parking sensors. Optional upgrades include lane keep assist, along with adaptive cruise control.
  • Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is average at 22 MPG, giving 418 miles of range out of the 19 gallon tank. Gas costs are $18 lower than average, at $211 per month.
  • Value 8/10 – The 2019 Cadillac XTS is much cheaper than other full size luxury sedans, although rapid depreciation rates do lower the value slightly.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Mary S
Extra-large trunk is a great asset.
We bought this car because of past experience with a 2016 model of this car. We really like the large trunk space because we go back and forth from Minnesota to Florida twice a year or more and haul lots of things. It is a large, comfortable car and gets good gas mileage on the road.
accountCircle Kendall R
Nice rims bold engine sweet for a just me car and.
I do not have any problems with my vehicle I love it drives nice and it is a very nice car when u do not have kids the engine has never broke down which I am grateful because of that because it is very expensive to get fixed and y’all can get beat up to it because they do not.
accountCircle Marvin G.
My 4th Cadillac and most comfortable road car
Bought discounted used 2019 Cadillac XTS Luxury with 11,000 miles rare archaictic blue with shale interior...you had to look hard to see any nicks or swirl marks...excellent condition...drove 1200 miles in mountains with 5 people... Trunk huge 18 cu. Ft.this Cadillac handled better than my 2015 CTS Premium...my wife regrets not having convenience features as my other car but it was difficult to find...and cost thousands more...great value and even that they are discontinuing...best ride and handling of all cars I've owned....many compliments!
accountCircle Doug H.
I’ve happily returned!
Returned to Cadillac after too many years away and so happy to be back. Owned the family economy cars and trendy two door sports coupes and wanted to return to the luxury roots of my youth! Oh what a joy to drive the 2019 Cadillac XTS. It’s rich!
accountCircle Billy Bob
I'm in love
This is one of the best cars I've ever owned all other luxury cars are just Fake News....USA baby!
accountCircle Latonya M
I love the CarPlay as well as the settings to adjust to make this car of you.
I only drive Cadillacs. This car is the best that I have owned. It drives great. The dependability is superb. I previously owned an ats, I thought it was the best it was smaller. I like the xts because it has more room. I get the same gas mileage although this car is bigger. I’d recommend the Cadillac xts to any age group. Not only does it drive well, it looks good as well.
accountCircle Gregg S.
Comfortable
Impressive car at a great price with Cadillac warranty and amenities, turns heads when you drive up.
accountCircle Audrey R
Another great purchase from Cadillac.
The car is another winner from Cadillac! Performance is exceptional, as is style, and comfort. Very happy with this purchase. I have had no problems with the car, just regular routine maintenance. The features are great as they usually are with every Cadillac that I have owned. Would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a new luxury car.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Marci Coker
Almost deadly crash
Car accelerated on its own resulting in hitting a tree

What Do Critics Say About the Cadillac XTS?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2019 Cadillac XTS offers a very well-appointed cabin for the price, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
  • Edmunds rates the XTS at 4.3/5, enjoying the strong turbo V6 engine, but doesn’t like the relatively narrow trunk opening.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Cadillac XTS a 4.5/5, praising the outstanding interior room for a sedan, but owners don’t like the outdated technology.

What Common Problems Does the 2019 Cadillac XTS Have?

Common problems found on the 2019 Cadillac XTS include the stereo system freezing, paint chipping, along with rapid brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to other luxury cars on the market, leading to average repair costs as the XTS ages.

The stereo system freezing is the most widespread complaint found on the 2019 XTS, showing up within the first 10,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by a software issue which makes the touchscreen become unresponsive. Restarting the stereo makes it work again. There are also software updates available which improve the reliability which most dealers will install for free, while others charge around $50.

Paint chipping, especially on the front bumper, is another problem mentioned by some XTS owners. The angular design of the front bumper leads to some thin paint on the edges, which are more susceptible to chipping damage. The only way to fix the problem is by repainting the affected areas, at a cost of around $1,000 per panel.

Rapid brake wear has also been reported on some 2019 XTS models within the first 15,000 miles. The Cadillac XTS is a relatively heavy sedan, and the front brakes wear down quicker than in other cars on the market. Replacing the front brake pads costs around $200, while a new set of front rotors is around $500.

There are two recalls on the 2019 Cadillac XTS, which is better than some other luxury cars on the market. The first recall is for insufficient coating on the rear brake caliper pistons, and the second is for a missing rivet on the seat belt buckle assembly. Cadillac will replace parts on affected models for both issues for free.

How Long Will the 2019 Cadillac XTS Last?

A well-maintained 2019 Cadillac XTS can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than the very long-lasting Lexus LS. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to many competitors, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $875 per year.

As a used 2019 XTS reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the mass airflow sensor for $175, the axle shaft seals costing $255, along with the vehicle speed sensor which costs $525.

How Is the Technology?

Standard entertainment technology is excellent, offering an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a more powerful Bose stereo system.

The standard safety technology is decent and features a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, along with teen driver mode, which lets you set volume and speed limits.

Optional driver assistance features include:

  • Front parking sensors
  • Forward collision warning
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane departure warning
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Surround-view parking camera system
  • Safety alert seat
  • Hands-free park assist
  • Reverse collision warning
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane keep assist
  • Rear cross traffic alert
  • Automatic high-beam headlights
  • Head-up display

Is the 2019 Cadillac XTS a Good Value?

Yes, the 2019 Cadillac XTS is a good value for a large luxury sedan since it offers a lot of passenger room and upscale materials. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $32,350 to $57,250, making it less than a BMW 7 Series or Lincoln Continental. When new the price range was $46,795 to $72,995. Depreciation is worse than some competitors, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Cadillac XTS?

There are five main models of the 2019 Cadillac XTS offered from the entry level Base, the popular Cadillac XTS Luxury, through to the stronger Platinum V-Sport. The XTS comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

Base is the entry-level model which has:

  • 19-inch wheels
  • LED headlights and heated mirrors
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Keyless ignition and entry
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Eight-way power front seats with leather upholstery
  • Power-adjustable steering wheel
  • 60/40-split folding rear seats with cargo pass-through
  • Backup camera, Bluetooth, OnStar (4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot)
  • 8-inch touchscreen with two USB ports
  • Wireless smartphone charging
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
  • Eight-speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio

Luxury is a step up with:

  • All features of the Base trim
  • Automatic wipers and auto-dimming mirrors
  • Ambient interior lighting and driver-seat memory settings
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Heated and ventilated front seats, heated seats in the rear
  • Navigation system
  • Front parking sensors
  • Automatic parking system (front-wheel-drive models only)
  • Optional: Driver Awareness package
  • Optional: Panoramic sunroof

Premium Luxury has more upgrades including:

  • Includes standard Driver Awareness package
  • 20-inch wheels and adaptive suspension
  • Adaptive headlights and automatic high beams
  • Head-up display and tri-zone climate control
  • Adjustable front-seat thigh support
  • Upgraded driver-configurable gauge cluster display
  • 110-volt power outlet and passenger-seat memory settings
  • 14-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system
  • Optional: Rear sunshades, 22-way massaging front seats, panoramic sunroof
  • Optional: Driver Assist package

Platinum is the most luxurious adding:

  • Includes all options of Premium Luxury
  • Electronic limited-slip differential
  • Simulated-suede headliner
  • Upgraded leather upholstery
  • Extended leather trim (center console, dash panel)
  • Deluxe rear armrest with audio and sunshade controls

Platinum V-Sport is the sportiest model with:

  • Equipped similarly to the Platinum trim
  • Features a more powerful engine
  • Standard all-wheel drive
car
Livery Package
304 HP 22 MPG
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Stretch Livery
304 HP 22 MPG
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Funeral Coach
304 HP 17 MPG
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Premium Luxury
304 HP 20 MPG

What Engines Come In the Cadillac XTS?

The 2019 Cadillac XTS offers two engine options, each designed to cater to different driver preferences:

  • 6L V6 Engine: The base engine for the XTS is a 3.6L V6 that delivers 304 horsepower at up to 22 MPG. It’s paired with a smooth-shifting, six-speed automatic transmission. When powered by this engine, the XTS can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds.
  • 6L Twin-Turbo V6 Engine: Available in the sportier V-Sport model, the XTS can be equipped with a more powerful 3.6L twin-turbo V6 engine that produces an impressive 410 horsepower while getting 18 MPG. This engine also uses a 6-speed automatic transmission. With this engine under the hood, the XTS sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just under 5 seconds.

What Colors Does the Cadillac XTS Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Cadillac XTS?

The 2019 Cadillac XTS stands as a testament to Cadillac’s commitment to luxury and comfort. Riding on a well-tuned suspension, the XTS offers a smooth and composed drive, adept at absorbing road imperfections and providing a serene cabin experience. Inside, occupants are treated to spacious and plush seating, with ample legroom and headroom to accommodate both drivers and passengers of varying heights.

Premium materials are found throughout the cabin, from the soft-touch surfaces to the available leather upholstery, further enhancing the luxurious feel. Features like multi-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated options, and advanced climate control systems further elevate the comfort level. Quietness is another hallmark of the XTS, thanks to its active noise cancellation technology and sound-insulating materials that work in tandem to keep road and wind noise at bay. Whether embarking on a long journey or navigating city streets, the 2019 Cadillac XTS makes sure its occupants are cocooned in utmost comfort.

How Much Storage Space Does the Cadillac XTS Have?

The 2019 Cadillac XTS boasts a generously sized trunk, providing owners with a capacity of around 18 cubic feet. This substantial space allows for a wide range of items to be stored with ease, from multiple full-sized suitcases suitable for a long vacation, to a golf bag for those weekends on the green. Beyond its trunk capacity, the interior of the XTS is also replete with handy storage solutions.

Owners will find an array of in-cabin storage compartments, including door pockets, a spacious glovebox, and center console storage. These areas are perfect for keeping smaller items, like mobile phones, wallets, and personal documents, organized and within arm’s reach. Overall, the Cadillac XTS from 2019 successfully combines luxury with practicality, making sure that drivers and passengers alike have the space they need for both short jaunts and extended journeys.

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What Are the Differences Between Years?

The first generation of the Cadillac XTS was launched for the 2013 model year, and discontinued after 2019.

2015: 4G LTE WiFi is standard on all models, optional lane-keep assist added, and improved power seats.

2016: Standard wireless phone charging on all models, updated grille on Platinum model, Apple CarPlay offered in the CUE stereo system.

2017: Updated gauge cluster, V-Sport models come with new 20-inch wheels, and teen driver mode added.

2018: Small exterior styling changes including a new front bumper, LED headlights, and more sound insulating materials for a quieter cabin.

2019: Larger wireless device charging pad added, the final model year for the XTS.

How Does the Cadillac XTS Compare to the Competition?

The 2019 Cadillac XTS is a nice old-school full size luxury sedan offering a smooth ride paired with a ton of passenger room, making it a good choice for shoppers.

The Chrysler 300 is another luxury car available for about $1,500 more. Steering is more responsive in the Chrysler 300, while the Cadillac XTS offers better passenger room in the rear seats. We recommend the Cadillac XTS since it comes with more standard features, but it’s worth testing both out to see which you prefer.

The Cadillac CTS is a smaller sedan offered by Cadillac for about $1,000 less. Performance is better in the Cadillac CTS, while the Cadillac XTS has a smoother suspension for rough roads. We recommend the Cadillac CTS since it’s more fun to drive, but if you’re looking for the classic Cadillac luxury feel then the XTS is better.

Ranks #5 Luxury Large Cars by Owners

1
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4.83
2
car
4.81
5
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4.57

Do Owners Recommend the Cadillac XTS?

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Doug H. on August 9, 2021
I’ve happily returned!
Returned to Cadillac after too many years away and so happy to be back. Owned the family economy cars and trendy two door sports coupes and wanted to return to the luxury roots of my youth! Oh what a joy to drive the 2019 Cadillac XTS. It’s rich!
accountCircle Al D on May 30, 2021
Cadillac xts is a luxurious and pristine car.
Great car it has not had any problems with mechanics or design. It is a luxury vehicles with fancy and rich designs and details. Great car for everyday use and/or special events. Sits five passengers and is very roomy and comfortable in the back especially.
accountCircle Haider A on March 24, 2021
A good luxury 4 door sedan.
Its is one of the most luxury cars out there and you can buy one used under 30 k. Its is really fun to drive and it has v6 engine and is a pretty fast car also and while you drive this car, all the noise from their outside eliminated. If you want a good looking luxury car that has a good technology system too. I would recommend this car.
accountCircle Marci Coker on December 27, 2020
Almost deadly crash
Car accelerated on its own resulting in hitting a tree
accountCircle Kendall R on December 24, 2020
Nice rims bold engine sweet for a just me car and.
I do not have any problems with my vehicle I love it drives nice and it is a very nice car when u do not have kids the engine has never broke down which I am grateful because of that because it is very expensive to get fixed and y’all can get beat up to it because they do not.
accountCircle Mary S on November 24, 2020
Extra-large trunk is a great asset.
We bought this car because of past experience with a 2016 model of this car. We really like the large trunk space because we go back and forth from Minnesota to Florida twice a year or more and haul lots of things. It is a large, comfortable car and gets good gas mileage on the road.
accountCircle Jessica L on November 20, 2020
I love my Cadillac and so will you.
It does not have many features or power. Other than that I love my Cadillac. It is sharp looking and I get many compliments on it. I bought it used so I cannot get many of the apps to work. But if you bought it brand new I am sure they would show a person how to use them all.
accountCircle Ron E on September 18, 2020
I really like the bright lights at night time, it makes it for an easier driving.
It's very comfortable, drives really nice, but I do not like the stop and go when it comes to the engine for flex fuel. If you were every about to get into a wreck then you would not have the pickup to get out of the way of a car. So that's pretty much it.
accountCircle Audrey R on September 8, 2020
Another great purchase from Cadillac.
The car is another winner from Cadillac! Performance is exceptional, as is style, and comfort. Very happy with this purchase. I have had no problems with the car, just regular routine maintenance. The features are great as they usually are with every Cadillac that I have owned. Would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a new luxury car.
accountCircle L.Robertson on August 3, 2020
Over all workmanship,excellent
Very Good highway cruiser, looks good on the road,safety is tops, to much to list,Cadillac has returned to the auto world of class.
accountCircle Marvin G. on August 3, 2020
My 4th Cadillac and most comfortable road car
Bought discounted used 2019 Cadillac XTS Luxury with 11,000 miles rare archaictic blue with shale interior...you had to look hard to see any nicks or swirl marks...excellent condition...drove 1200 miles in mountains with 5 people... Trunk huge 18 cu. Ft.this Cadillac handled better than my 2015 CTS Premium...my wife regrets not having convenience features as my other car but it was difficult to find...and cost thousands more...great value and even that they are discontinuing...best ride and handling of all cars I've owned....many compliments!
accountCircle Tracie C on February 29, 2020
Nothing rides like a Cadillac.
I haven't had any problems out of my xts. It has been very reliable and is a great car to travel in. There is plenty of legs room in both the front and back seats. It has all the bells and whistles which is always nice for traveling. With the large trunk you can take along whatever you need plus shop while you are there. I will certainly be buying another Cadillac.
accountCircle Billy Bob on January 14, 2020
I'm in love
This is one of the best cars I've ever owned all other luxury cars are just Fake News....USA baby!
accountCircle Jared P on November 18, 2019
It feels as if your floating.
The vehicle drives very smoothly and picks up speed very quickly. I have yet to have a bad experience any downsides to purchasing a Cadillac vehicle, it always has enough room whether you're in the back or the front seat. I would definitely recommend buying. The only bad thing is that the assistant braking system bugs out.
accountCircle Gregg S. on November 14, 2019
Comfortable
Impressive car at a great price with Cadillac warranty and amenities, turns heads when you drive up.
accountCircle Latonya M on November 1, 2019
I love the CarPlay as well as the settings to adjust to make this car of you.
I only drive Cadillacs. This car is the best that I have owned. It drives great. The dependability is superb. I previously owned an ats, I thought it was the best it was smaller. I like the xts because it has more room. I get the same gas mileage although this car is bigger. I’d recommend the Cadillac xts to any age group. Not only does it drive well, it looks good as well.
accountCircle Max R Russell on October 20, 2019
The ride is why I’m stuck on Cadillac
One problem we had at 35,000 miles was an a/c compressor failing. Another was front spindles replaced. My wife love the car. It’s quiet, the front and rear end appearance is awesome plus it rides like a Cadillac.
accountCircle Sam R on August 21, 2019
Where luxury and comfort meet.
It runs really smooth. There is a lot of space for the driver and passenger that for long drives and trips it is comfortable and safe. The dashboard is clean and easy to navigate and it really feels like a luxury car. I would really recommend this car if you are looking for a reliable luxury car without breaking the bank.
accountCircle Whitney G on April 14, 2019
Elegant, Classy, Queen ride
My vehicle is elegant and classy just like myself. This latest model has elegant chrome accents around the rear tail lights give it a nice look. I've added my special touch with Cadillac emblem illuminating lights. I don't have any problems she rides smooth like a baby
accountCircle Lala M on November 6, 2018
The best car I have ever own. No complaints whatsoever.
It is such a great car don't have any complaints. Love it best car out there. It has all the feature you need to go on by your day! From music to adjusting your seat to auto started your car from anywhere. That is perfect when super cold outside and you want to warm up your car before you get in it or when its super hot outside and you want to cool off the seats before getting in. Downside about the seats is they get super hot in the heat. The a/c takes a little longer than most cars to cool. Also it eats up gas like crazy. If you drive a lot and far you will be filling up often but other than that it is such an awesome car.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.