We’ve just hit 12 noon, and we’re on the move again. On our way out of Ajman, we turned our attention to the sights and sounds of, including the timed traffic lights. Come on boys, we’ve only got 28 seconds to make this green light!
A little further into our run we stumbled across the border and into Umm al-Quwain…
…where we found yet another stretch of beach to shoot the svelte(ish) lines of the XTS, and consider the new CUE (Cadillac User Experience) system.
I’ve touched briefly on the multimedia accessibility and tri-zone automatic climate control, and I mean that quite literally. The new touchscreen technology has received over five years of development, and is considered Cadillac’s ace in the hole.
Select an option by pressing the respective part of the screen with your finger or thumb, and a small pulse signifies that the system recognises the command. You’ll find softly, softly and gentle as she goes is the way forward here. Stabbing frantically at the system will only get you so far, as my attempts with the hazard warning lights (courtesy of a late braking taxi in front of me) so aptly proved.
There is another neat little trick, namely the storage space behind the eight-inch LCD screen: perfect for leaving your pocket rubbish in during a long distance journey. And yes, we made sure to keep reminding ourselves that our wallets were still in there.
Camera equipment is rapidly flung into the boot when we realise it’s past 1pm. Time for a quick bite at one of Umm al-Quwain’s five star eateries…
…you may want to bear with us for a few minutes.
2013 Cadillac XTS | |
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Engine: | V6 / 3564cc |
Power: | 304hp @ 6800rpm |
Torque: | 264lb ft @ 5200rpm |
Transmission: | Six-speed automatic / hydra-Matic 6T70 |
Front suspension: | High performance coil-over strut / hollow direct-acting stabilizer bar / magnetic ride control suspension |
Rear suspension: | Linked “H”-arm with air springs / magnetic ride control |
Brakes: | Ventilated / split / dual-circuit four-wheel-disc with power assist / 345mm (front) / 315mm (rear) |
Wheels: | 20-inch polished aluminum / chrome inserts |
Tyres: | 245/40 R20 / all-season blackwall |
Weight (kerb) | 1877kg |
0-100kph: | N/A |
Top speed: | N/A |
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