Where are the paddle shifters located on the Cadillac XTS?
2 Answers
Cadillac XTS's paddle shifters are positioned at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock locations on the steering wheel, specifically in front of the wiper and turn signal controls. There is one on each side, left and right, used for upshifting and downshifting respectively. Some models have paddle shifters that rotate with the steering wheel, while others are mounted on the steering column and remain stationary when the wheel turns. Paddle shifters are semi-automatic clutch-operated gear-shifting devices that allow drivers to change gears without pressing the clutch pedal, simply by pulling the paddles. The Cadillac XTS measures 5131mm in length, 1852mm in width, and 1501mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2837mm.
Having driven the Cadillac XTS for many years, the paddle shifters are positioned on the left and right sides behind the steering wheel—the left paddle is for downshifting, and the right one is for upshifting. When you grip the wheel, a light tap from behind with your fingers allows effortless operation, especially in manual mode when you want to shift gears for acceleration or deceleration. This eliminates the need to take your hands off the wheel, significantly improving safety. The placement is ergonomic; when holding the wheel at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions, your fingertips naturally rest on the paddles. For first-time users, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the feel while the car is stationary to avoid fumbling during high-speed driving. This feature is quite common on the Cadillac XTS and enhances driving enjoyment. The position may vary slightly with steering wheel adjustments, but the overall difference is minimal. I use it most often on mountain roads or when overtaking—it stays fixed in place, unobtrusive yet highly practical.
