Mercedes adds a new cabrio and All-Terrain to the upcoming new E-Class range.

• Rugged new E-Class All-Terrain priced from £58,880
• Luxurious E-Class Cabriolet starts at £44,675
• E 220 d 4MATIC and E 350 d 4MATIC models added to E-Class Coupé line-up
• E 350 d 4MATIC now available in Saloon and Estate

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet and E-Class All-Terrain are now available to order, along with new versions of the E-Class Coupé, Saloon and Estate. The cabriolet is priced from £44,675 for the E 220 d AMG Line Cabriolet. The All-Terrain is available in one special launch edition: All-Terrain Edition, from £58,880.

E-Class All-Terrain Edition

The E-Class All-Terrain Estate comes with standard 4MATIC all-wheel-drive, a nine-speed automatic gearbox and one efficient diesel engine, badged E 350 d. This 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 generates 258 hp and 620 Nm and emits

179 g/km, while delivering combined fuel economy of up to 41.5 mpg. It has a top speed of 155 mph, and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 6.2 seconds.

The All-Terrain Edition comes generously equipped as standard, with a Burmester surround sound system; Air Body Control air suspension; panoramic electric sunroof; Comand Online with a 12.3-inch infotainment display and 12.3-inch cockpit display – creating a widescreen effect; memory package, including electrically operated front seats; LED Intelligent Light System; Keyless-Go Comfort package; privacy glass; split folding rear seats; 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels; and an electrically folding tow bar with a 13-pin adapter. It has a towing capacity of up to 2,100 kg.

Dynamic Select – which allows the driver to tailor steering, suspension and accelerator settings - is also standard and features a specific All-Terrain mode, raising the vehicle by 20 mm.

The E-Class All-Terrain is 39 millimetres higher than the E 350d AMG Line Estate. The highest suspension setting gives ground clearance of up to 156 mm. The 4MATIC permanent four-wheel-drive distributes power between the front and rear axles with a split of 31:69.

E-Class Cabriolet

The E-Class Cabriolet is a full four-seater, with a multi-layer acoustic fabric roof that can be operated at speeds up to 31 mph and opened or closed in just 20 seconds. The roof can be specified in one of three no-cost option colours: black; dark blue and dark brown.

There are four engines available from launch: E 220 d; E 350 d 4MATIC;  E 300; and E 400 4MATIC.

The E 220 d features a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 194 hp, and 400 Nm of torque. It emits 126 g/km of CO2 and delivers up to 57.7 mpg on the combined cycle, while 0 to 62 mph takes 7.7 seconds. The E 350 d 4MATIC’s 3.0-litre V6 unit has an output of 258 hp and 620 Nm. Combined fuel economy is 41.5 mpg, and CO2 emissions 179 g/km, and 0 to 62 mph takes 6.1 seconds.

The E 300 uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 245 hp and 370 Nm and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 6.6 seconds. It has a CO2 output of 167 g/km and can deliver up to 39.2 combined mpg. The range-topping E 400 4MATIC has a 3.0-litre biturbo V6 engine generating 333 hp and 480 Nm. It emits 194 g/km of CO2 and delivers 32.8 mpg combined. It can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 5.5 seconds, and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Standard specification for the E-Class Cabriolet is based on that of the E-Class Coupé, with the addition of the Airscarf neck-level heating system and Aircap, which helps to redirect the air flow over the cabin for a more relaxing driving experience. Other standard equipment includes: Agility Control suspension; Magic Vision Control wiper system; LED high performance headlights; reversing camera; heated front seats; and ambient lighting with a choice of 64 colours. Air Body Control air suspension and Comand Online - including the 12.3-inch infotainment screen - are optionally available for £1,495, or standard on the E 400 4MATIC. A second 12.3-inch screen is £495.

A Premium package is optionally available for £1,795 and adds Memory package (including electrically operated front seats) and Keyless-Go Comfort package (keyless entry and start, plus hands-free boot access). The £2,895 Premium Plus package adds to the Premium package with a Burmester Surround Sound system and Multibeam LED Intelligent Light System. Exclusive to the E-Class Cabriolet is the new Rubellite Red metallic paint, which costs £645.

The optional Driving Assistance Plus Package (£1,695) includes Drive Pilot, which combines Distance Pilot Distronic; Speed Limit Pilot; Active Lane-Change Assistant; Active Brake Assist cross-traffic function; Evasive Steering Assist; and Pre-Safe Impulse Side.

Additional changes to the E-Class range

Two new all-wheel drive models have been added to the E-Class Coupé line-up: the E 220 d 4MATIC and E 350 d 4MATIC. The £41,820 E 220 d 4MATIC generates 194 hp and 400 Nm, emits 137 g/km, delivers 53.3 mpg and can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds. The £51,415 E 350 d 4MATIC packs 258 hp and 620 Nm, emits 174 g/km and delivers up to 42.8 mpg. It can accelerate from standstill to 62 mph in six seconds.

The E 350 d 4MATIC model has also been added to the E-Class Saloon and Estate range. In the Saloon it emits 167 g/km and delivers up to 44.8 combined mpg. The E 350 d 4MATIC Estate emits 174 g/km and can achieve 42.8 mpg.

The Skoda Fabia has tipped over half a million 3rd gen and 4 million fabia's in total.

• 500,000th ŠKODA FABIA of current generation runs off production line at Mladá Boleslav plant today
• Milestone vehicle is FABIA COMBI MONTE CARLO 1.0 TSI (81 kW) in moon-white 
• ŠKODA has produced four million FABIAs since 1999

ŠKODA has produced the 500,000th third-generation FABIA in Mladá Boleslav today. At the same time, the manufacturer is celebrating another milestone: the four millionth ŠKODA FABIA since the series debuted in 1999. The jubilee vehicle is a ŠKODA FABIA COMBI with a 1.0 TSI petrol engine and an automatic DSG transmission in moon-white. 

With 91,400 deliveries in the first five months of 2017, the popular small car is currently ranked second on the ŠKODA bestseller list behind the OCTAVIA.

 "Today, we can be doubly proud. 500,000 third-generation FABIAs built and four million FABIAs produced in total are powerful testimonies of ŠKODA’s high production quality," says Michael Oeljeklaus, ŠKODA Board Member for Production and Logistics. “Since 1999, the small car has been one of the key players in our model portfolio and has won over customers around the world. 

Each of the three generations has characterised the development of the brand, featuring the latest technologies and exceptional space for outstanding value for money, complemented with attractive designs and superior technologies for safety and comfort. Now more than ever, the FABIA is a crucial driver of our dynamic growth."

Where it all began: the first ŠKODA FABIA – 1999 to 2007

Shortly before the turn of the millennium, the first ŠKODA FABIA celebrated its premiere at the IAA in Frankfurt in 1999. It was based on Volkswagen's A0 platform and, at that time, set standards in handling, safety and engine technology. As a typical ŠKODA, the FABIA scored with lots of space. At the Paris Motor Show in autumn 2000, the brand introduced the first ŠKODA FABIA COMBI. The ŠKODA FABIA RS made its debut in March 2003. Around 1,790,000 ŠKODA FABIAs of the first generation ran off the production line.

The second-generation ŠKODA FABIA - 2007 to 2014

The ŠKODA FABIA II entered the spotlight at the Geneva Motor Show. The second generation offered even more space with compact dimensions. ŠKODA expanded the engine range to include more efficient powertrains, and equipped the small car with new comfort and safety features. 

ŠKODA first presented the FABIA COMBI in September 2007 at the IAA in Frankfurt. It set new standards in technology and functionality, and the amount of room also increased. The boot volume grew by 235 litres compared to its predecessor.

Rugged exterior with distinctive design elements – this is how ŠKODA presented the FABIA SCOUT, which was also available as an estate, in 2009. With the first ŠKODA FABIA MONTE CARLO, motorsport DNA entered the popular small car. 

This model completed the model range in 2011, featuring a black roof, black alloy wheels, tinted rear and side windows and other expressive design elements. The production of the second-generation FABIA ended in June 2014 after approximately 1,710,000 cars.

All good things come in threes: ŠKODA FABIA III - 2014 to today

In 2014 the Czech manufacturer wrote another successful chapter in the history of this series with the third generation of the ŠKODA FABIA. To date, exactly 500,000 vehicles have left the production line. The FABIA III presents a sharp, dynamic and emotive design language. 

The sporty proportions skilfully allude to ŠKODA’s successful rally cars. With its excellent space on offer for this vehicle class, and innovative safety, comfort and infotainment systems, the third ŠKODA FABIA sets the benchmark in the small car segment. 

As a typical ŠKODA, the onboard equipment features many ‘Simply Clever’ details: the umbrella under the passenger seat, the ice scraper in the fuel cap, the multimedia bracket in the centre console, nets on the backs of the front seats, as well as hi-viz vests and bottle holders.

In early 2017, ŠKODA returned to the Geneva Motor Show. The ŠKODA FABIA received a 1.0-TSI three-cylinder for the first time, providing more power with lower fuel consumption. 

The 70 kW (95 hp) and 81 kW (110 hp) powertrains replaced the 1.2-litre four-cylinder used previously. The revised small car is the first FABIA to feature the mobile online service ŠKODA Connect. With the advanced connectivity offer, FABIA drivers have the option of always being online. 

ŠKODA Connect includes the Care Connect services with assistance- and emergency-call functions. In addition, there are the online infotainment services, which include information on traffic, petrol stations, fuel prices and car parks.

At the same time, the new ŠKODA FABIA offers state-of-the-art safety systems, which have so far only been seen in higher vehicle segments. The model features front-wheel assist with integrated city emergency braking function, adaptive cruise control (ACC), multi-collision brake assist and fatigue detection. In addition, electronic tyre pressure monitoring comes as standard with all FABIA models.

Volvo and it's Performance arm, Polestar will become a totally new electrified brand

Volvo Cars, the premium car maker, has announced that Polestar, its performance car arm, is to become a new separately-branded electrified global high performance car company, marking the latest stage in Volvo’s ongoing transformation. 

In order to drive the development of the brand, Volvo Cars also announced today that Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo, will assume the position of Chief Executive Officer at Polestar. Mr Ingenlath has been the inspiration behind Volvo’s award winning design renaissance in recent years. 

“Thomas heading up the Polestar organisation shows our commitment to establishing a truly differentiated stand-alone brand within the Volvo Car Group,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars. 

Mr Ingenlath will be joined at Polestar by Jonathan Goodman, who will become Chief Operating Officer. Mr Goodman moves from his position as Senior Vice President Corporate Communication at Volvo Cars. 

“With 25 years of commercial experience in the automotive industry, Jonathan is ideally placed to provide operational experience alongside Thomas’s vision, building on the experienced management team that will drive the Polestar brand forwards” said Mr Samuelsson. 

“Polestar will be a credible competitor in the emerging global market for high performance electrified cars. With Polestar, we are able to offer electrified cars to the world’s most demanding, progressive drivers in all market segments.” 

Volvo Cars acquired 100 per cent of Polestar Performance in July 2015, having worked together in motorsport since 1996. In the future, Polestar will offer Polestar branded cars that will no longer carry a Volvo logo, as well as optimisation packages for Volvo’s range of cars under the Polestar Engineered brand. 

Polestar will enjoy specific technological and engineering synergies with Volvo Cars and benefit from significant economies of scale as a result of its connection to Volvo. These synergies will allow it to design, develop and build world beating electrified high performance cars. 

Mr Ingenlath said: “I am really excited to take up the challenge of establishing this exciting brand, developing a fabulous portfolio of bespoke products and channelling the passion we have throughout the Polestar team. The next chapter in Polestar’s history is just beginning.” 

Polestar will make further announcements about its products, industrialization and commercial plans in the autumn

The Eight gretest Phantoms to include the car driven by Montgomery of Alamein

• ROLLS-ROYCE ANNOUNCES ‘FIELD MARSHAL MONTGOMERY’S PHANTOM III’ AS THE SECOND GREAT PHANTOM TO JOIN THE EXHIBITION

#GreatPhantoms

At the end of July, ‘The Great Eight Phantoms’, a Rolls-Royce Exhibition, will gather together the greatest Phantoms from the last 92 years in Mayfair, London. 

The Exhibition will also welcome the next generation of this most celebrated luxury item, the new eighth generation Phantom. 

In the lead up to the opening of the Exhibition, Rolls-Royce is announcing which Great Phantoms will journey to London from around the world, telling the stories of these motor cars, their fabled owners and the historical events they witnessed. 

It is with great pleasure that the marque announces today that the Rolls-Royce Phantom III of British Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein will join the Exhibition. 

Monty’s Triple

Although Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery of Alamein was nicknamed the Spartan General due to his ascetic lifestyle, there was one area in which he demanded the very best – his personal transport. And his preference was for Rolls-Royce. 

During World War Two, the Field Marshal had the use of three Rolls-Royce Phantom IIIs. 

The first of the Phantoms, a 1936 model coachbuilt by Freestone & Webb, was owned by the head of English Talbot Motor Company, Frederick Wilcock, before being requisitioned by the Ministry of War Transport Section. Montgomery used it as his personal transport in the run up to D-Day, and ferried Winston Churchill, General Eisenhower and King George VI to D-Day planning sessions at his base in Southwick House, Hampshire. 

A keen believer in the power of the image, Montgomery used his Rolls-Royce Phantom to communicate permanence, solidity and reliability – a signal to his men that he was there to stay. 

But it is the ‘Butler’ Phantom III, which will be present at the Exhibition in London, which proved to be Montgomery’s favourite. This particular Phantom was commissioned for Alan Samuel Butler, Chairman of the De Havilland Aircraft Company, with bodywork by HJ Mulliner of Chiswick. Its most striking feature was a front-sloping windscreen that made the car 15 per cent more aerodynamically efficient than the standard configuration. The motor car’s slippery nature was also helped by the enclosed spare tyre and swept tail. 

The ‘Butler’ Phantom III was Montgomery’s main official mode of transport for many years visiting such eminent addresses as 10 Downing Street, the War Office on Whitehall, the British Prime Minister’s country residence Chequers, and military operations centres such as Northwood in Hertfordshire and the NATO Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers-Europe in Rocquencourt, near Versailles, France.

The Field Marshal kept the 'Butler' Phantom until 1962, by which time it had also carried the Prime Ministers of Canada, Australia and New Zealand, as well as taking Monty around the UK to historic meetings, inspections and celebrations. 

The ‘Butler’ Phantom III has recently undergone extensive refurbishment at Rolls-Royce specialist P&A Wood in Essex, England. 

‘The Great Eight Phantoms’ Exhibition will be the first and only opportunity for members of the public to see this amazing Rolls-Royce before it attends the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in the United States in August, after which it will return to its current owner’s private collection. 

‘The Great Eight Phantoms’, a Rolls-Royce Exhibition, will take place in Mayfair, London, at the end of July this year. 

Cadillac updates the XTS for the 2018 Model year to make it a far superior car.

NEW FOR 2018

• Enhanced technology features with next-generation Cadillac user experience
• Improved chassis for even greater ride comfort
• Freshened front and rear appearance

The Cadillac XTS is a spacious and comfortable sedan with confident handling and performance. For 2018, the XTS receives technical, chassis and appearance changes to heighten the appeal of this elegant sedan.

Beginning with the enhanced next-generation Cadillac user experience, which debuted on the 2017 CTS sport sedan, the XTS now offers a dynamic platform that can be adjusted over time to meet a customer’s evolving connectivity needs, leveraging the cloud to enable personalization, available connected navigation and applications via the Collection app store.

The updated chassis has revised tire designs for both 19” and 20” tires—improving ride comfort while reducing outside noise for a quieter more comfortable cabin. 

Drivers will find front-seat luxury much more comfortable thanks to changes to seat foam geometry, wire frame structure and heat pad redesign. An increased use of engineered sound insulators (to reduce exterior noise) reduces cabin sound to create an even more serene environment.

New exterior styling features freshened front and rear fascias. Updated interior color and trim choices – including a Platinum-exclusive Maple Sugar with Jet Black environment – and new alloy wheel options highlight the updates to the XTS. 

The appearance change includes new fenders, front and rear fascias, grille, and the addition of LED headlights and taillamp in keeping with today’s portfolio. It also brings the overall length of the car to 200.9 inches (1.1” inches shorter than 2017).

Also available is the XTS Platinum V-Sport, which takes performance to a higher level, driven by an exclusive twin-turbo engine and all-wheel drive.

Standard and available features across the lineup include:

• Updated chassis with improved ride comfort
• Brembo front brakes standard
• Available advanced all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
• Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels, with a new wheel design for Luxury and Platinum models
• Updated next-generation Cadillac user experience infotainment system with the fastest response time ever, updated graphics, personalized profiles, smartphone-like navigation, Wi-Fi and active connection
• Adaptive remote start
• Four USB ports
• Standard eight-speaker Bose audio system

When it comes to trunk space, the XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding some midsize and full-size competitors — that’s more than the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.

Technology and Connectivity — technology upgrades for a more connected ride

The next-generation Cadillac user experience is a dynamic platform that can be adjusted over time to meet a customer’s evolving connectivity needs, leveraging the cloud to enable personalization, available connected navigation and applications via the Collection app store.

With functionality that applies popular apps and smartphone practices in the vehicle, the new user experience system provides customers with easier access to the most common features. The more intuitive operation includes a Summary View in which all key applications – climate, audio, phone and navigation – are displayed on one screen.

Exterior Design: modern design enhanced by new LED lighting

The exterior design was altered to present a freshened style closer in line with the CT6 prestige sedan. Changes include the addition of all-new LED headlights and taillamps, fenders and front and rear fascia and a new grille.

New designs are available on both 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Interior Features: improved front-seat comfort with new color and trim options

Like the exterior, the XTS’ cabin features authentic cut-and-sewn materials and an artistic integration of technology.

New interior decor is available across much of the XTS line. There is a revised Jet Black with Shale-accented environment available for XTS, XTS Luxury and XTS Premium Luxury models. The XTS Platinum models include new Jet Black and Maple Sugar with Jet Black accents.

Platinum models feature a leather-wrapped interior with microfiber suede headliner, as well as premium wood trim on the steering wheel, console, center stack, instrument panel and door panels.

Seating trim offers full-leather seating on Kona, or semi-aniline full leather seating surfaces on Platinum models, both with perforated detailing. Heated and ventilated seats are also offered. The 2018 model includes the redesigned updates to the seat foam geometry, wire frame structure, heat pads for the heated seats and 40” of rear legroom for added passenger comfort. Together, the changes elevate the riding experience for the driver and passengers.

Powertrains: Confident power from two V-6 engines

The Cadillac twin-turbo 3.6L V-6 headlines the XTS’ powertrain lineup and is standard on the V-Sport model, delivering SAE-certified 410 horsepower (306 kW) and 369 lb-ft of torque (500 Nm), making it one of the most power-dense six-cylinder engines in the segment. A pair of turbochargers and an efficient charge air cooler help provide more immediate power delivery, while peak torque is sustained over a broad range — 1,900 to 5,600 rpm — for a confident feeling of power when accelerating or overtaking traffic.

The XTS’ standard 3.6L V-6 is rated at 304 horsepower (227 kW) and 264 lb-ft of torque (355 Nm). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold that saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.

The engines are matched with six-speed automatic transmissions and tap-shift control.

Driving Experience: Revised chassis and tire designs further elevate ride quality

The newly updated chassis has revised tire designs for both 19- and 20-inch tires, improving ride comfort while reducing outside noise for a quieter and more comfortable cabin. The XTS can be equipped with Magnetic Ride Control and Rear Air Leveling for extra-sharp handling.

A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies, all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed, ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection and serves as the foundation for the advanced chassis system.

A smart all-wheel-drive system with Haldex technology and an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels complements an advanced high-performance strut front suspension and available Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling. The rear suspension comprises a linked H-arm design with air springs.

Safety: confidence through sophisticated safety features

Cadillac provides available advanced safety based on its “control-and-alert” strategy, employing advanced technologies — including radar, camera and ultrasonic sensors — to help prevent crashes. The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards and can even help drivers avert potential crashes. In certain situations, Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems, such as automatic braking, can automatically apply braking in response to potential hazards.

The available Driver Awareness Package also features updates to provide the comfort of assurance in a safe drive. XTS models equipped with the Driver Awareness Package will find features such as Low Speed Automatic Braking, Following Distance Indicators and Lane Change Alert to complement Side Blind Zone Alert. 

The Driver Awareness Package is available on Luxury Trim and is standard on higher trims. The Driver Assist Package, which adds Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking, is available on Premium Luxury and standard on Platinum models.

Exterior Design: modern design enhanced by new LED lighting

The exterior design was altered to present a freshened style closer in line with the CT6 prestige sedan. Changes include the addition of all-new LED headlights and taillamps, fenders and front and rear fascia and a new grille.

New designs are available on both 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Like all Cadillac vehicles, the grille, LED headlamps and exterior signature lighting invite discovery with precise details you appreciate the more time you spend with the vehicle.

Additional features include:

• Unique Platinum grille on XTS Platinum and Platinum V-Sport models
• Available power folding mirrors
• Standard LED headlamps
• Illuminating door handles included on Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum models
• Rainsense automatic windshield wipers are included on Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum models
• Standard 19-inch new Pearl-Nickel-accented painted aluminum wheels with chrome inserts on XTS
• Standard 19-inch painted finish aluminum wheels on XTS Luxury, with optional polished finish
• All-new 20-inch ultra-bright machined and premium painted wheels are standard on XTS Platinum
• Driver Awareness Package adds new Low Speed Forward and vision-based Automatic Braking, Following Distance Indicator and Lane Change Alert (optional on XTS Luxury and standard on XTS Premium Luxury, Platinum and V-Sport Platinum)

Ten exterior colors are offered: Crystal White Tricoat, Black Raven, Radiant Silver Metallic, Phantom Gray Metallic, Bronze Dune Metallic, Dark Adriatic Blue Metallic and Stellar Black Metallic, with the addition of Red Horizon Tintcoat, Stone Gray Metallic and Midnight Sky Metallic.

Interior Features: improved front-seat comfort with new color and trim options

Like the exterior, the XTS’ cabin features authentic cut-and-sewn materials and an artistic integration of technology.

New interior decor is available across much of the XTS line. There is a revised Jet Black with Shale-accented environment available for XTS, XTS Luxury and XTS Premium Luxury models. The XTS Platinum models include new Jet Black and Maple Sugar with Jet Black accents.

Platinum models feature a leather-wrapped interior with microfiber suede headliner, as well as premium wood trim on the steering wheel, console, center stack, instrument panel and door panels.

Seating trim offers full-leather seating on Kona, or semi-aniline full leather seating surfaces on Platinum models, both with perforated detailing. Heated and ventilated seats are also offered. 

The 2018 model includes the redesigned updates to the seat foam geometry, wire frame structure, heat pads for the heated seats and 40” of rear legroom for added passenger comfort. Together, the changes elevate the riding experience for the driver and passengers.

Additional interior features include:

• 22-way power-adjustable front seats with heat, ventilation and massage are standard on Platinum models and available on Premium Luxury models.
• Adaptive remote start is standard on all models.
• Audio system with Bose® premium eight-speaker sound is standard on the XTS and Luxury models.
• Bose® Studio Surround Sound 14-speaker system with Surround Stage signal processing is standard on Premium Luxury and Platinum models.
• Tri-zone automatic climate control is standard on Premium Luxury and Platinum models. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard on XTS and Luxury models.
• Color, reconfigurable 12.3-inch gauge cluster with driver information center is standard on Premium Luxury and Platinum models.
• Head-up display with color readouts is standard on the Premium Luxury and Platinum models.
• Illuminated entry and courtesy lighting is standard on all models.
• Accent lighting, including LED spotlights and light pipes, is standard on Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum models.
• Full-leather seats with mini-perforated inserts are standard; Semi-Aniline full-leather seating surfaces with mini-perforated inserts are standard on the Platinum model XTS.
• Heated driver/front passenger and outboard rear passenger seats and vented driver/front passenger seats are standard on Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum models.
• Leather-accented steering wheel with wood accents and tap up/tap down transmission controls is standard.
• Heated steering wheel is standard on Luxury, Premium Luxury and Platinum models.
• Power rear window shade and manual rear side window shades are available on the Premium Luxury model and standard on Platinum.

Five interior color/trim combinations are offered:

• Jet Black and Graphite Sapele Open Pore wood trim; leather seating surfaces
• New Shale with Jet Black accents and Graphite Sapele High Gloss Natural Ash wood trim; leather seating surfaces
• Kona Brown with Jet Black accents and natural finish wood trim; full leather seating surfaces
• New Platinum-exclusive Jet Black High gloss Ebony Lineate wood trim; Semi-Aniline full leather seats
• New Platinum-exclusive Maple Sugar with Jet Black accents and Nutella Lineate with high gloss Ebony Lineate wood trim; Semi-Aniline full leather seats

Technology and Connectivity: Technology upgrades for a more connected ride

The next-generation Cadillac user experience is a dynamic platform that can be adjusted over time to meet a customer’s evolving connectivity needs, leveraging the cloud to enable personalization, available connected navigation and applications via the Collection app store.

With functionality similar to smartphones, the new user experience system provides customers with easier access to the most common features. The more intuitive operation includes a Summary View in which all key applications – climate, audio, phone and navigation – are displayed on one screen

The heart of the next-generation Cadillac user experience is the 8-inch LCD multi-touch-sensitive screen integrated into the top of the central instrument panel. The next-generation Cadillac user experience vibrant LCD screen resembles a smartphone’s screen, with large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. 

Upgrades and enhancements for the next-generation Cadillac user experience in 2018 include in-vehicle apps via Collection, partial name recognition, display of Advanced Park Assist, Wi-Fi signal strength display, personalized profiles, integrated smartphone-like navigation and active connection.

“Cadillac pioneered connectivity by bringing OnStar to market, and more recently we became the first luxury brand to enable Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across our product line,” says Richard Brekus, Cadillac director of Product Strategy. “We have worked to improve overall system response in recent years, and now this next-generation user experience system delivers more improvements, focused mainly on intuitive control.”

Personalized Profiles

My Driver Preferences are personalized cloud-based profiles that allow users to customize the infotainment system and take that same customized experience with them into any new Cadillac user experience-equipped vehicle.

Features such as vehicle and display setting, contact favorites, navigation route preferences and recent destinations can be customized and follow a user’s profile.

Each driver can create an individual account and personalize their preferences for the Cadillac user experience. Vehicle owners can manage their My Driver Preferences in the vehicle or via their myCadillac Owner Center on the Cadillac website.

Integrated Smartphone-like Navigation

The new Cadillac user experience features an available all-new navigation app with an intuitive interface and access to destination information via available cloud-based services. This includes updated points of interest, live traffic information, fuel prices and parking information.

Through simple input methods, such as enhanced voice recognition and an improved onscreen search function, users have access to more relevant search results. Over time, this opt-in subscription-based system can learn a user’s preferred routes and destinations, offering predictive suggestions based upon traffic and frequent destinations.

New Cadillac user experience equipped vehicles currently come standard with an available, opt-in 12-month connected navigation trial.

Active Connection

The built-in OnStar 4G LTE enables an active connection to the vehicle that, with customer consent, will allow Cadillac to remotely update features such as navigation and the newly launched Collection app store, after vehicle purchase.

The available 4GLTE Wi-Fi hotspot allows passengers to connect up to seven compatible mobile devices, smartphones and tablets to high-speed wireless Internet. The new system supports use of two compatible phones concurrently via Bluetooth.

Users can access Apple CarPlay and Android Auto advanced smartphone integration through the Home screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are subject to their terms, privacy statements and data plan rates and require a compatible smartphone.

Every new Cadillac currently comes standard with an available 12-month OnStar subscription at no additional cost. Among other benefits, this connectivity plan features OnStar Smart Driver, an opt-in service designed to help owners maximize their vehicle’s overall performance, reduce wear and tear, monitor fuel efficiency and improve their driving, all factors that add to the overall ownership experience.

Owners can also manage their vehicles remotely with the industry-leading myCadillac mobile app via their compatible smartphones.

Cadillac owners can also opt in to keep their vehicle connected at no cost for five years through the OnStar Basic Plan, including:

• OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics, which runs monthly checks of a vehicle’s engine, transmission, anti-lock brakes and more
• Dealer Maintenance Notification, which sends a diagnostic report directly to a preferred dealer, simplifying service scheduling
• OnStar Smart Driver, which monitors driving behaviors and offers the opportunity to save money on insurance
• At Your Service, which gives you access to a marketplace of money-saving offers from nearby merchants

The all-new myCadillac Mobile App combines the services available through the former myCadillac and OnStar RemoteLink® apps to allow customers to easily manage their vehicle ownership experience. Features on the new myCadillac Mobile App include roadside assistance, parking reminders, owner manual content and vehicle diagnostics. 

In addition, users will be able to remotely control vehicle features, including the OnStar Wi-Fi® hotspot, remote start/stop, and remote door lock/unlock. The app is included for free for five years and is available in the U.S. and Canada through the iTunes and Google Play Stores.

Driving Experience: Revised chassis and tire designs further elevate ride quality

The newly updated chassis has revised tire designs for both 19- and 20-inch tires, improving ride comfort while reducing outside noise for a quieter and more comfortable cabin. The XTS can be equipped with Magnetic Ride Control and Rear Air Leveling for extra-sharp handling.

A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies, all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed, ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection and serves as the foundation for the advanced chassis system.

A smart all-wheel-drive system with Haldex technology and an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels complements an advanced high-performance strut front suspension and available Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling. The rear suspension comprises a linked H-arm design with air springs.

High Performance Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride and handling characteristics in four significant ways:

• Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
• Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
• Reduces torque steer
• Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.

Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control, “reading” the road every millisecond and changing damping in just 5 milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magnetorheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

A premium electric, variable-assist power steering gear is employed with all front-wheel-drive models. It is designed to deliver excellent response and on-center characteristics while enhancing efficiency by drawing energy only when the wheels are turned.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and four-wheel disc brakes (front Brembo brakes) with four-channel anti-lock brakes, all features that add important layers of control. Like Magnetic Ride Control, XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac’s V-Performance models.

Safety: confidence through sophisticated safety features

Cadillac XTS provides available advanced safety based on Cadillac’s “control and alert” strategy, which employs advanced technologies including radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors to help prevent crashes. The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards and can even help the driver avert potential crashes. In certain situations, Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems, such as automatic braking, can automatically apply braking in response to potential hazards.

The available Driver Awareness Package also features updates to provide the comfort of assurance in a safe drive. XTS models equipped with the Driver Awareness Package will find features such as Low Speed Automatic Braking, Following Distance Indicators and Lane Change Alert to complement Side Blind Zone Alert. 

The Driver Awareness Package is available on Luxury Trim and is standard on higher trims. The Driver Assist Package, which adds Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking, is available on Premium Luxury and standard on Platinum models.

Additional safety features include dual-stage frontal air bags, knee air bags, side-impact air bags, head-curtain air bags and seat side-impact air bags for outboard rear passengers. A Rear Vision Camera is standard on all XTS models. Head-up display is standard on Premium Luxury and Platinum models.  

The XTS also offers automatic parking assist (FWD models), which enables the car to park itself in both parallel and perpendicular spaces. It uses ultrasonic sensors to locate a suitable space and maneuver the car into the space. The driver is required to only engage reverse and apply the accelerator and brake pedals.