Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Cadillac rushing update for laggy CUE infotainment system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/cadillac-rushing-update-for-laggy-cue-infotainment-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/cadillac-rushing-update-for-laggy-cue-infotainment-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/05/cadillac-rushing-update-for-laggy-cue-infotainment-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



BMW's innovative iDrive was introduced in 2001, and a dozen years later, automakers are still learning hard lessons about what consumers want in their infotainment systems. In response to owner feedback - and a few media drubbings - about the delayed and occasionally fickle responses of its CUE (short for Cadillac User Experience) system, Cadillac has told Wired that it's going to issue an update this year.

Coming for the XTS and ATS, the new software will mean quicker haptic feedback to driver inputs on the touchscreen and the buttons, and snappier responses on screen. Down the road, Cadillac's VP of marketing says that a different mix of screen controls and hard buttons is "something you'll be seeing in the future" - the system is presently a mix of touchscreen-based controls and capacitive-touch switchgear - there are no knobs or physical pushbuttons to speak of, and the omission of both has proven to be a divisive issue among consumers and industry pundits.

Cadillac hasn't provided a date for when the CUE update will be issued, but it has indicated that the service will be performed by dealers, not sent wirelessly.

Cadillac rushing update for laggy CUE infotainment system originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Feb 2013 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac ats2013 cadillac xtsatscadillaccadillac user experiencecueinfotainmentsoftwarextsTue, 05 Feb 2013 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20449495/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/05/cadillac-rushing-update-for-laggy-cue-infotainment-system/20449495/article-detail.xml 20449495 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/cadillaccuerevision_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/cadillaccuerevision.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Cadillac XTS [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/2013-cadillac-xts-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/2013-cadillac-xts-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/30/2013-cadillac-xts-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Cadillac Of Stopgaps

2013 Cadillac XTS

As confusing as most alphanumeric car names have gotten in recent years, at least one constant has been that the letter "X" is generally indicative of a crossover. Then why did General Motors use this letter on its new 2013 Cadillac XTS luxury sedan? Well, for that, we'll have to look to the world of mathematics where "X" stands for an unknown variable or a placeholder. Now we're talking. The XTS is just an interim product sitting at the top of Cadillac's four-door food chain until the brand gets a true flagship in place. That sounds like a lot of resources to spend on what will likely be a one-and-done model, but the automaker needed to get something - anything - to replace the DTS.

So here you have the 2013 XTS. A big luxury sedan that was created to bridge the gap between Cadillac's recent past and its pending future. Going into our week with this XTS knowing that it was a stopgap measure proved to be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, we know (or hope) that this car will act as a baseline for future high-end Cadillac models, but at the same time, we couldn't help but be mindful of past stopgap models, albeit in more entry-level segments, like the Cimarron and Catera.

Continue reading 2013 Cadillac XTS [w/video]

2013 Cadillac XTS [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jan 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xts2013 cadillac xts platinumcadillaccadillac xts photoscadillac xts reviewfeaturedreviewreviewsxtsxts platinumWed, 30 Jan 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20442456/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/30/2013-cadillac-xts-review-video/20442456/article-detail.xml 20442456 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-cadillac-xts-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-cadillac-xts-review.jpg <![CDATA[How the demise of Lincoln's Town Car has kick-started a limo revolution]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/how-the-demise-of-lincolns-town-car-has-kick-started-a-limo-rev/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/how-the-demise-of-lincolns-town-car-has-kick-started-a-limo-rev/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/30/how-the-demise-of-lincolns-town-car-has-kick-started-a-limo-rev/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The deaths of the Ford Crown Victoria and the Lincoln Town Car have meant overhauls of three high-profile American fleets: police, taxi and livery car. Just as police fleets are more open to considering other options and a Nissan van is the new face of the NYC taxi, livery car companies are looking at replacements for the Town Car beyond The Blue Oval. Ford, via Lincoln, has made an MKT Town Car (pictured), but an article in the Detroit News claims "it has failed to win over most of the big limousine companies." The upstarts trying to move in include livery and limo editions of the Cadillac XTS, and livery specifications of the Toyota Avalon and Chrysler 300.

Each of those challengers, however, faces challenges. The Town Car was a workhorse, American, rear-wheel-drive sedan with plenty of rear legroom. Cadillac has been in the livery space before but with decontented models that were about selling the brand, not its luxury. It is taking the opposite approach with the XTS, pointing out that its livery edition is "contented in the upper half of the XTS range." Still, the CEO of Michigan's largest livery company says "it's quite a bit smaller than what we're used to," and he also prefers rear-wheel drive.

The Chrysler 300 is rear-wheel drive, and American, which matters to some companies, but Chrysler hasn't yet revealed the livery package for it. The livery Avalon marks Toyota's first time getting into that business in the US, a natural step after having done so well with taxi clients and with the Town Car out of the way. Still, the livery client is a different to taxi buyers, so the Avalon could face other soft-touch hurdles.

Don't expect to see any of them flooding the streets immediately. The US fleet of the world's largest livery firm remains 85 percent Town Car, and companies are still finishing their research into what drivers and passengers want. But a brave new black car world beckons, and it look like it won't include nearly as many Lincolns as it used to.

How the demise of Lincoln's Town Car has kick-started a limo revolution originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Dec 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300avalonavalon liveryavalon town carcadillacchryslerlimousinelincolnliverymktmkt town cartown cartoyotaxtsxts liveryxts town carSun, 30 Dec 2012 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20411187/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/30/how-the-demise-of-lincolns-town-car-has-kick-started-a-limo-rev/20411187/article-detail.xml 20411187 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/mkttowncar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/mkttowncar.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Dart falls short of <i>Consumer Reports</i> Recommended, Caddy XTS and Lincoln MKS, too]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/dodge-dart-falls-short-of-consumer-reports-recommended-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/dodge-dart-falls-short-of-consumer-reports-recommended-c/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/dodge-dart-falls-short-of-consumer-reports-recommended-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Dodge Dart

The Dodge Dart, Cadillac XTS and Lincoln MKS all failed to earn a "Recommended" rating from Consumer Reports. When it came to the compact Dart, the organization's testers thought the vehicle offered a quiet cabin, solid-feeling chassis and nimble suspension, but the new model ultimately fell short of the coveted rating due to powertrain issues. The institute's reviewers found the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to be underpowered and noted "drivability issues" when the available turbocharged 1.4-liter four was paired with the optional dual-clutch transmission (some of our editors disliked it paired with the six-speed manual). CR also dinged the latter powerplant for sounding "raspy." For what it's worth, we think the forced-induction engine offers an excellent and playful exhaust note, but that's just us.

As for the XTS, CR lauded the car for its luxurious cabin, but the vehicle's experience was dulled by its finicky CUE infotainment interface. Overall, the big Cadillac scored much higher than its cross-town rival from Lincoln. While testers found the American luxury sedan to offer a quiet ride and quality fit and finish, they felt the MKS delivered a "cramped driving position, ungainly handling, uncomposed ride, and limited visibility." Ouch. At the end of the day, both cars fell short of rivals from Japan, Germany and Korea. Check out the full press release below with more details, along with CR's musings on the Chevrolet Spark and Lexus ES.

Continue reading Dodge Dart falls short of Consumer Reports Recommended, Caddy XTS and Lincoln MKS, too

Dodge Dart falls short of Consumer Reports Recommended, Caddy XTS and Lincoln MKS, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Nov 2012 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xts2013 dodge dart2013 lincoln mkscadillacconsumer reportsdartdodgelincolnmksxtsThu, 22 Nov 2012 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20384685/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/22/dodge-dart-falls-short-of-consumer-reports-recommended-c/20384685/article-detail.xml 20384685 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-dodge-dart-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-dodge-dart-628.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac recalls 2013 XTS over head restraint issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/cadillac-recalls-2013-xts-over-head-restraint-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/cadillac-recalls-2013-xts-over-head-restraint-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/cadillac-recalls-2013-xts-over-head-restraint-issue/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Cadillac XTS sedan - front three-quarter view

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration has announced a recall of more than 12,000 Cadillac XTS sedans over a head restraint issue.

General Motors is recalling 12,626 XTS models built between October 12, 2011 and August 30, 2012 over Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 202, which pertains to head restraints. Apparently, the Cadillac's rear seat headrests "may not lock in the upright position after being folded forward. If the head restraint is at its lower position and it falls forward, it will not meet the height required by the standard."

This issue could result in an increase risk of neck injuries in the event of a crash. To address this issue, Cadillac is notifying the 12,626 affected owners, and dealerships will replace the units in question with no charge to the owners. This recall commenced yesterday, November 12. To find out more on this action, scroll below for the press release.

Continue reading Cadillac recalls 2013 XTS over head restraint issue

Cadillac recalls 2013 XTS over head restraint issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillaccadillac recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallxtsWed, 14 Nov 2012 11:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20379726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/cadillac-recalls-2013-xts-over-head-restraint-issue/20379726/article-detail.xml 20379726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-cadillac-xts-first-drive_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-cadillac-xts-first-drive.jpeg <![CDATA[Cadillac design to go soft for China?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/cadillac-design-to-go-soft-for-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/cadillac-design-to-go-soft-for-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/cadillac-design-to-go-soft-for-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Cadillac XTS

General Motors may push to soften Cadillac design language for the Chinese market, according to Reuters. GM CEO Dan Akerson plans to bolster Cadillac sales in China to meet current US levels by 2015, which may mean the Crest will abandon the sharp lines and aggressive angles of the its current stable.

The report suggests Chinese buyers are more at ease with smooth lines and plenty of curves thanks in part to the concept of Zhongyong. The Confucian ideal stresses harmony over conflict and permeates Chinese society. The minds at GM seem to recognize that trend, and are keen to take some of the bite out of forthcoming models. The updated style wouldn't be a complete visual makeover, rather it would be toned down a bit while still remaining unique and distinctive.

Buyers are on pace to snap up 35,000 Cadillac units in China this year, up 5,000 compared to 2011. Even so, analysts predict the brand will only see sales of around 75,000 units by 2018, which is still less than half of the number of units sold in the US last year. Models like the XTS sedan and ATS may help swell those numbers, however.

Cadillac design to go soft for China? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atscadillaccadillac atscadillac chinacadillac xtschinadesignxtsThu, 08 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20372205/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/08/cadillac-design-to-go-soft-for-china/20372205/article-detail.xml 20372205 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-cadillac-xts-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-cadillac-xts-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #301]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/autoblog-podcast-301/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/autoblog-podcast-301/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/autoblog-podcast-301/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

2013 Ford Fusion, Honda Fit CUV and Civic Type R, Buick Encore pricing, pressure to sell GM stock, Jaguar F-Type autoblog podcast logo

Episode #301 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, George Kennedy and Seyth Miersma talk about the 2013 Ford Fusion, new Hondas we can't have, Buick Encore pricing, pressure on the Treasury to sell GM stock and the Jaguar F-Type. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #301:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Toyota Camry LE
2013 Mercedes Benz GL 550
2012 Cadillac XTS Premium

Hosts: Dan Roth, George Kennedy, Seyth Miersma


Runtime: 01:24:12
Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #301

Autoblog Podcast #301 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Sep 2012 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 301buick encore pricingcamryencoref typefeaturedfusiongeneral motorsglgl550xtsTue, 25 Sep 2012 17:15:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #301Autoblog01:24:12 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20333084/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/25/autoblog-podcast-301/20333084/article-detail.xml 20333084 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[OnStar bug forces GM to halt deliveries on 60,000 vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/onstar-bug-forces-gm-to-halt-deliveries-on-60-000-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/onstar-bug-forces-gm-to-halt-deliveries-on-60-000-vehicles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/onstar-bug-forces-gm-to-halt-deliveries-on-60-000-vehicles/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

GM OnStar

General Motors stopped the sale of certain 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, Equinox and Volt models as well as 2013 Buick Verano units, GMC Terrain crossovers and 2012 Cadillac SRX, XTS and ATS vehicles due to a problem with the onboard OnStar crash notification system. According to Automtotive News, the affected units would not notify emergency responders of an accident in any collision that did not actuate the vehicle's airbags. That could include rear-end impacts. GM says the software glitch won't take long to address and doesn't impact the crash notification system in accidents that involve deployed airbags. The trouble doesn't prevent the airbags from deploying, either.

All told, the stop-sale covers around 60,000 vehicles already on dealer lots. GM has already cleared some of those for sale thanks to a remote reflash sent through the OnStar system. Automotive News reports that unfortunately, the fix hasn't worked on every vehicle, and dealers are having to manually install the fix on the remainder of the impacted units. GM expects the repair to be completed by the end of September.

OnStar bug forces GM to halt deliveries on 60,000 vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atsbuickcadillacchevroletcruzeequinoxgmgm stop salegmconstarstop saleveranovoltxtsMon, 10 Sep 2012 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319315/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/10/onstar-bug-forces-gm-to-halt-deliveries-on-60-000-vehicles/20319315/article-detail.xml 20319315 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gm-onstar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gm-onstar.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac XTS lineup expands to livery, limo and hearse models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/04/cadillac-xts-lineup-expands-to-livery-limo-and-hearse-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/04/cadillac-xts-lineup-expands-to-livery-limo-and-hearse-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/04/cadillac-xts-lineup-expands-to-livery-limo-and-hearse-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Cadillac has announced a trio of new specialty vehicles based on the 2013 XTS, including a livery sedan, limousine, and 'funeral coach' (read: hearse).

The first model mentioned, the livery sedan, is a factory package from General Motors, and features an air-leveling rear suspension, heated rear seats, and both side and rear window shades. All that, along with a tri-zone climate control unit, and you have one attractive ride to and from the airport. Buy what about that three day bender in Vegas for your friends bachelor party? Better get him the XTS limousine.

The limo and hearse are co-developed with selected aftermarket companies, which perform the work based on GM direction and specs. Cadillac spokesperson David Caldwell expanded upon that notion, saying "[we] determine and specify the types of specialty bodies that can be done, the amount of 'stretch' we support, etc. There is a small network of Professional Vehicle companies who are authorized to build these - we do not build specialty vehicle bodies 'in-house'."

While some features were mentioned for the livery sedan, little was specified about the limo or hearse. No pricing has been mentioned at this time, and it is likely that pricing would be on a case-by-case basis with clients.

Caldwell brought up that the established player in the livery market, the Lincoln Town Car, "has for a long time been the far-and-away market leader for these - and that will likely continue to be the case. But we are doing something specific for this, in a different direction." And what exactly would that be? Offering a livery car that is more than just a taxi with an all-black paint job; "we are offering the Livery Package with a bit more luxury inside than standard XTS models... which honestly will limit the volume quite a bit, but is the right approach for how we wish to present the brand."

Quality over quantity? How very un-fleet-vehicle of Cadillac, and an approach that could determine which "black car" you hail when leaving the airport.

Continue reading Cadillac XTS lineup expands to livery, limo and hearse models

Cadillac XTS lineup expands to livery, limo and hearse models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Sep 2012 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillacexecutivehearselimousineliverylong wheelbaselwbxtsTue, 04 Sep 2012 18:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20315488/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/04/cadillac-xts-lineup-expands-to-livery-limo-and-hearse-models/20315488/article-detail.xml 20315488 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/cadillac-xts-limo-hearse_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/cadillac-xts-limo-hearse.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac sets sights on No. 1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Don Butler

Don Butler, Cadillac's vice president of marketing, says Cadillac will to return as the No. 1 luxury brand in the United States, some day.

"It's my goal that we're the No. 1 luxury brand in the U.S.," Butler said. "I'm not going to say when we hope to achieve that, yet, but there's no reason to aim for anything less."

Cadillac certainly has reason to think it's moving up. The all-new 2013 ATS arrives next month to directly compete with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C300. The larger Cadillac XTS launched last month, and next year, the third generation CTS arrives and new Escalade will also roll into dealerships.

"We've gone nearly three years without new product," Butler said. "Now we're bringing in some great vehicles."

Currently, Cadillac would need to add more than 100,000 units to take the top spot from Mercedes-Benz, which sold 261,573 units in 2011. Cadillac sold 152,389 vehicles in 2011. And that's just to top Mercedes. Lexus, which lost its top spot last year, has vowed to recapture it and Audi recently said it plans on becoming the No. 1 luxury brand in the world.

Cadillac sales are currently down 18.6 percent for the year, according to Autodata Corp. though that number will likely change dramatically when the ATS hits showrooms. Luxury vehicle sales are up 12.8 percent and luxury car sales are up 16.8 percent.

Butler readily admits that Cadillac has a lot of work to do to get back on top. The brand's name used to be synonymous with luxury; it was the Cadillac of luxury brands. But it hasn't been that for decades.

"We used to be up on a pedestal," he said. "Now, we're not."

Cadillac sets sights on No. 1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atsbmw 3 seriescadillacctsdon butlerescaladeluxurymercedes c300top luxury brandxtsSat, 21 Jul 2012 16:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20282392/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/20282392/article-detail.xml 20282392 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/don-butler-cadillac-ats-07202012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/don-butler-cadillac-ats-07202012.jpg <![CDATA[GM study watches drivers of autonomous vehicles [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/gm-study-watches-drivers-of-autonomous-vehicles-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/gm-study-watches-drivers-of-autonomous-vehicles-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/gm-study-watches-drivers-of-autonomous-vehicles-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Cadillac test driver in autonomous vehicle

Like it or not, autonomous vehicles are on the way, and much is being done to study their integration into the world's transportation networks. As part of its own development of driver assistance systems, General Motors has begun to look driver behavior behind the wheels of self-driving vehicles; innovations like Cadillac semi-autonomous Super Cruise are designed to "ease the driver's workload" on the highway, but it will be good to know what drivers plan on doing to occupy their time.

The main finding so far is that "Staying aware [is] considered key to autonomous vehicle operation," which would seem to make the most basic kind of sense, but the additional assessment is that "driver attentiveness can be improved through advanced driver assistance and safety features." Basically, the more your car does for you, the more it will need to be able to do in order to ensure everyone's safety.

The driver aids that will be available on the 2013 Cadillac ATS this year and the 2014 XTS next year continue the march toward self-driving cars, which some predict might come as soon as this decade. Scroll down to watch a video and see a press release on GM's studies on human behavior behind those I, Robot wheels.

Continue reading GM study watches drivers of autonomous vehicles [w/video]

GM study watches drivers of autonomous vehicles [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atsautonomousautonomous vehiclescadillacdriver aidsdriver assistancegmself-drivingself-driving carsuper cruisextsMon, 25 Jun 2012 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20264760/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/25/gm-study-watches-drivers-of-autonomous-vehicles-w-video/20264760/article-detail.xml 20264760 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/gmautonomousstudy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/gmautonomousstudy.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac moves to trademark LTS, is it for a rear-drive flagship?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/cadillac-moves-to-trademark-lts-is-it-for-a-rear-drive-flagship/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/cadillac-moves-to-trademark-lts-is-it-for-a-rear-drive-flagship/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/cadillac-moves-to-trademark-lts-is-it-for-a-rear-drive-flagship/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Car and Driver is back with more info on the potential future of Cadillac, having discovered that our finest domestic luxury brand has filed a trademark application for the name "LTS." The reasoned speculation: that since Cadillac tends to use the names it files to protect, LTS could be applied to one of the two rear-drive sedans expected to arrive soon - either the eventual successor to the just-introduced XTS or an Omega-platformed top-tier flagship. Another possibility is the name XLS.

More interesting are the dimensional roles that Car and Driver predicts for the coming lineup. With the CTS growing in order to put some girth between it and the ATS, making it a straighter comparison to the BMW 5 Series, the XTS replacement would fit between the 5 Series and 7 Series, and the flagship "would exceed even the long-wheelbase 7 in size." That might leave the flagship no larger than the current DTS, which is already 2.4 inches longer than the 760Li, but if the report is correct it will be interesting to see how Cadillac differentiates that middle sedan from the other two.

Cadillac moves to trademark LTS, is it for a rear-drive flagship? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac cielcadillac flagshipcadillac ltscadillac xlscadillac xtscielltstrademarktrademark applicationxlsxtsThu, 14 Jun 2012 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20258208/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/14/cadillac-moves-to-trademark-lts-is-it-for-a-rear-drive-flagship/20258208/article-detail.xml 20258208 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/cadillacltstmark_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/cadillacltstmark.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Cadillac XTS [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-cadillac-xts-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-cadillac-xts-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/29/2013-cadillac-xts-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Not Quite The Cadillac Of Cadillacs

2013 Cadillac XTS

There was a time when the name of the second oldest American automotive nameplate meant something more. The term "Cadillac" was widely used to express the best of the best. In fact, it was common for people to use the term when referring to other items (e.g., "It's the Cadillac of stereo receivers" or the "Cadillac of washing machines") to drive home the point that something was nothing short of top-of-the-line.

It was good to be Cadillac, and the automaker supported the conviction with vehicles such as the 1928 Series 341, 1936 V12 Series 85 and 1947 Series 62.

By the 1970s, though, much of the luster had begun to fade. Then vehicles like the Cimarron and Catera happened.

But Cadillac has been on track to redeem itself. Vehicles like the SRX crossover and CTS range (especially the high-performance CTS-V models) have helped the 110-year-old luxury automaker alter the public's opinion and reinvigorate the brand. Retiring the full-size DTS is another milestone, as fresh new products began to fill the pipeline.

Enter the all-new 2013 Cadillac XTS. For the next couple years, the full-size luxury sedan is tasked with holding the flagship role in Cadillac's passenger car lineup. Meaning, in so many words, that the range-topping model loaded with nearly every bell-and-whistle known to man and a base price of $60,000 should be... well... the Cadillac of Cadillacs.

Continue reading 2013 Cadillac XTS [w/video]

2013 Cadillac XTS [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac2013 cadillac xts2013 xtscadillaccadillac xtscadillac xts first drivecadillac xts reviewxtsxts sedanTue, 29 May 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20246498/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/29/2013-cadillac-xts-first-drive-review-video/20246498/article-detail.xml 20246498 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-cadillac-xts-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-cadillac-xts-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac XTS configurator ready for your own personal livery]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/cadillac-xts-configurator-ready-for-your-own-personal-livery/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/cadillac-xts-configurator-ready-for-your-own-personal-livery/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/cadillac-xts-configurator-ready-for-your-own-personal-livery/#commentsFiled under: , ,



You can now attack the 2013 Cadillac XTS configurator with tame abandon. Why tame? Because there are hardly any options; understandable for a temporary flagship - just about everything is standard or included in a trim package.

The proceedings begin at $44,995 (plus $920 for destination) for the front-wheel drive XTS Standard, rising in increments of about $5,000 through three additional trims: Luxury, which adds ornamentation like dual stainless exhaust tips, LED spotlights and light pipes, and more seat functions; Premium, which upgrades the CUE system to a 14-speaker Bose system and adds the 12.3-inch reconfigurable dash cluster, plus tri-zone climate control; and Platinum, which swaps for 20-inch wheels and installs power and manual rear shades. Step over to the all-wheel drive XTS and the bar moves up to $51,835 and begins at Luxury, moving through Premium to top out at $61,305 for the AWD Platinum.

There are five colors from which to choose, and on all but a few models there are just two cost options that aren't already checked: the $75 engine block heater and the $350 compact spare tire. On the Luxury trim you can add the $1,450 UltraView power sunroof and $795 upgraded CUE system, on the Premium you can add the $250 power rear sunshade. There is nothing else for your fancy to do.

The only shocker we found were interior options: the trims below Platinum get four color options, including a couple of contrasting two-tones like the beautiful caramel and jet black (inset). The Platinum trim only gets two interior color choices, caramel not one of them. Checking all two boxes on the Platinum leaves you with a heady $62,725 for the lot. We'd advise you not to take our word for it, though, and get over to the configurator and start virtually outfitting one for yourself.

Cadillac XTS configurator ready for your own personal livery originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillaccadillac xtscadillac xts configuratorcadillac xts pricingconfiguratorxtsxts pricingFri, 25 May 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245019/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/cadillac-xts-configurator-ready-for-your-own-personal-livery/20245019/article-detail.xml 20245019 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/xtsconfigurator2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/xtsconfigurator2.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac releases trunkload of new XTS images]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/cadillac-releases-trunkload-of-new-xts-images/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/cadillac-releases-trunkload-of-new-xts-images/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/cadillac-releases-trunkload-of-new-xts-images/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Cadillac XTS

Maybe it's just having downloaded 50-plus images of the new full-size Cadillac, but the 2013 Cadillac XTS is starting to grow on us. And not like a fungus, but like a jumbo CTS - one fitted with Magnetic Ride Control and HiPer Struts, all-wheel-drive and Brembos. And a trunk that's enormous enough that GM says the XTS "is in a league of its own," promising "room for five or more suitcases."

So maybe that enthusiasm might be premature - or better reserved for the ATS - but we've got someone driving the big Caddy this week. We'll have a full report soon.

Cadillac releases trunkload of new XTS images originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillacxtsTue, 22 May 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242723/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/cadillac-releases-trunkload-of-new-xts-images/20242723/article-detail.xml 20242723 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-cadillac-xts-sedan-001-opt-1337707152_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-cadillac-xts-sedan-001-opt-1337707152.jpg <![CDATA[More details emerge about new RWD Cadillac flagship]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/more-details-emerge-about-new-rwd-cadillac-flagship/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/more-details-emerge-about-new-rwd-cadillac-flagship/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/more-details-emerge-about-new-rwd-cadillac-flagship/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Every single Cadillac XTS post ends up with comments deploring the sedan's FWD - even a post that speaks of nothing more than the iPad buyers will get with the car. For those folks especially, Car and Driver has loaded the hopper with news on the possible treats coming from the Wreath and Crest. Examining uses of the Omega platform, C/D says "a proper rear-drive sedan" will arrive in "a few" years and take the top spot in the lineup. Predictions are that it will have a rakish roofline and the 310-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6.

GM's Omega platform is said to have been engineered to accommodate this new RWD flagship, though the chances of it actually coming to fruition are about as likely as winning the Mega Millions. The only trifles, according to C/D, are that the program hasn't even been approved, and if it is, would Cadillac have an engine good enough to serve in such a car or would it need to develop one. But said flagshp does, we repeat, it does, have a platform. Still, since the Cadillac Sixteen concept is from a time when "Gaga" is what babies said, you should probably stick to the Mega Millions for now.

More details emerge about new RWD Cadillac flagship originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillaccadillac flagshipomegaomega platformxtsThu, 10 May 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235275/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/more-details-emerge-about-new-rwd-cadillac-flagship/20235275/article-detail.xml 20235275 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/cadillacomegaflagship_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/cadillacomegaflagship.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Cadillac XTS to come standard with iPad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-cadillac-xts-to-come-standard-with-ipad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-cadillac-xts-to-come-standard-with-ipad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-cadillac-xts-to-come-standard-with-ipad/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Cadillac XTS

If you read the owner's manual of your car you'd begin to realize how much of your own vehicle you didn't know about. If it's a car made within the past few years, then the owner's manual covering the dirty bits will be joined by an even thicker manual that covers just the infotainment system. Cadillac, however, has a better way for buyers to learn the CUE-powered mysteries of the $44,995 XTS: give owners an iPad with the car, loaded with tutorials on how to get the most out of the Cadillac User Experience system.

Yes, when the Hyundai Equus was introduced it came with an iPad installed with a multimedia version of its owner's manual. Based on Wired's discussion with Cadillac, however, this is much wider implementation, with each Cadillac dealer required to have two "certified technology experts" on duty, plus a CUE call center for owners, an online media team looks for CUE questions to answer, and a mobile CUE specialist who makes house calls. The point seems to be that this isn't about getting an iPad with your car, it's about understanding ever tech thing your car can do. If you still don't know how to access the full power of your XTS, it will only be because you don't want to.

Scroll down for General Motors' official release.

2013 Cadillac XTS to come standard with iPad originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtsappleapple ipadcadillaccadillac user experiencecueipadxtsWed, 09 May 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234362/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/2013-cadillac-xts-to-come-standard-with-ipad/20234362/article-detail.xml 20234362 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/0001-2013-cadillac-xts_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/0001-2013-cadillac-xts.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac expanding XTS production to China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/cadillac-expanding-xts-production-to-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/cadillac-expanding-xts-production-to-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/cadillac-expanding-xts-production-to-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Cadillac XTS sedan live reveal in Los Angeles

Cadillac's new XTS isn't just headed to China, it will be built there. The forthcoming full-size luxury cruiser had already been earmarked for production in General Motors' Oshawa, Ontario Assembly Plant, but the automaker has just announced in Beijing that it will also be built in China with its joint venture partner Shanghai General Motors.

Cadillac is still a relatively small player in China's premium segment, with just 68 dealers and 30,000 sales last year. However, it's growing quickly, with March sales up more than 35 percent year-over-year to 2,745 units. Better still, General Motors says Cadillac's average buying age is very young - just 35 - and it expects to have 120 dealers online by the end of this year to meet growing demand.

The idea of local XTS production strikes us as a smart one, as China is enjoying a swell in demand for luxury cars, and it has always maintained a strong demand for vehicles with large rear seats. Cadillac already has a solid track record building in the communist nation, as it first began assembling the China-only SLS Executive Sedan - essentially an extended wheelbase STS - back in 2006.

Continue reading Cadillac expanding XTS production to China

Cadillac expanding XTS production to China originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillacgeneral motorsgm chinagm of chinashanghai general motorsxtsMon, 23 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20221857/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/cadillac-expanding-xts-production-to-china/20221857/article-detail.xml 20221857 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/xts-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/xts-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Cadillac XTS priced from $44,995*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-cadillac-xts-priced-from-44-995/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-cadillac-xts-priced-from-44-995/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/2013-cadillac-xts-priced-from-44-995/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Cadillac XTS - front three-quarter view

Cadillac has announced base pricing for the 2013 XTS, its all-new, full-size luxury sedan. The car goes on sale this spring with a starting MSRP of $44,995 (*including destination charges).

The front-drive XTS will be available in four specifications: Base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum. All-wheel-drive will be available with any of the three trim packages. Cadillac will be deploying CUE, its new capacitive touch infotainment system, as standard equipment and every XTS will be equipped with Magnetic Ride Control.

Not mentioned today was the specific availability of Cadillac's new safety suite or any further pricing information about the specific packages. Cadillac did say it will be releasing a CUE Apple iPad app next month that will replicate the XTS' center screen. Click past the jump to read the full press release, then comment on whether you think Caddy's pricing is a fair shake in Comments.

Continue reading 2013 Cadillac XTS priced from $44,995*

2013 Cadillac XTS priced from $44,995* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillaccadillac cuecuepricingxtsxts pricingThu, 05 Apr 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20209613/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/05/2013-cadillac-xts-priced-from-44-995/20209613/article-detail.xml 20209613 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/0001-2013-cadillac-xts-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/0001-2013-cadillac-xts-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac adding vibrating Safety Seat Alert to full suite of safety tech [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/cadillac-adding-vibrating-safety-seat-alert-to-full-suite-of-saf/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/cadillac-adding-vibrating-safety-seat-alert-to-full-suite-of-saf/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/cadillac-adding-vibrating-safety-seat-alert-to-full-suite-of-saf/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



It's going to be a big year for Cadillac, which will soon be reloading its model lineup with the new ATS and XTS sedans. The 2013 ATS compact slots in below the CTS, while the larger 2013 XTS aims to take care of traditional Caddy buyers looking for immensity above all else. While at diametrical ends of the spectrum, the two new models will share a technology package that all revolves around a new seat.

General Motors is throwing around fifty-cent words like "haptic" and phrases like "directional tactile sensation" to describe its new Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates to warn the driver of potential dangers like wandering out of one's lane. The seat employs two electric motors to create its directional feedback, and it's at the center of both safety packages Cadillac will be introducing this year. The first is aimed at merely providing the driver with safety alerts, while a more comprehensive suite will also offer vehicle intervention. Cadillac is using six radar sensors, eight ultrasonic sensors and two vision cameras to drive the new safety systems.

The Driver Awareness Package will debut with the launch of the XTS in the spring and offers the seat, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. In the fall, Cadillac will begin offering the Driver Assist Package, which adds Adaptive Cruise Control, Front and Rear Automatic Braking, and Automatic Collision Preparation. Both packages will also be offered on the SRX crossover, details of which we expect to hear about at the New York Auto Show. Click through the jump to read more and to view two demonstration videos.

Continue reading Cadillac adding vibrating Safety Seat Alert to full suite of safety tech [w/video]

Cadillac adding vibrating Safety Seat Alert to full suite of safety tech [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac ats2013 cadillac srx2013 cadillac xtsatsautomatic reverse stopcadillacfeaturedgeneral motorsgmsafetysafety alert seatsrxvideovirtual bumperxtsWed, 28 Mar 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202354/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/28/cadillac-adding-vibrating-safety-seat-alert-to-full-suite-of-saf/20202354/article-detail.xml 20202354 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lane-departure-vibrating-seat-cadillac_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lane-departure-vibrating-seat-cadillac.jpg -1 2