Cadillac XTS Platinum concept (photos)

Cadillac's new concept, the XTS Platinum, has some similarity to the Lexus LS 600h, both being long, luxury sedans with hybrid power trains and all-wheel-drive, and featuring LED headlights. But the XTS Platinum is just a concept so far, although Cadillac designated a 3.6-liter direct injection V-6 complemented by a plug-in hybrid system, which should produce 350 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.

Cadillac says this concept advances its Art and Science design language. This car is less angular than the latest CTS production vehicles, suggesting Cadillac designers want to soften the strong lines that made the brand stand out visually.

Along with its all-wheel-drive system, the XTS Platinum gets Cadillac's Magnetic Ride Control, which uses electromagnets in conjunction with a magnetized fluid in the shocks to adjust the ride quality based on driver preference and road conditions.

Cadillac previously used the Platinum moniker for its Escalade, denoting hand-built coachwork to maximize luxury. The XTS Platinum serves to highlight Cadillac's capabilities in this area, as its cabin is adorned with stitched leather, wood, and metal.

To minimize unsightly buttons, the center stack in the XTS Platinum uses a backlighting technology that blacks out most buttons when not in use. Buttons for climate and audio will light up when needed.

The instrument cluster makes use of an OLED for animated gauges and information. As presented at the show, the center of the speedometer showed a looping animation of a Cadillac logo falling into place.

Cadillac doesn't specify the transmission for the XTS Platinum, but this subtle shifter hints at a CVT. As the hybrid system in the car is based on that of the Escalade Hybrid, the CVT is a likely choice.

Cadillac cleverly made the rear-seat monitors to slide up from compartments in the seat backs, where they won't interfere with the headrest.