Cadillac’s smallest model has just received a massive makeover. And while the dramatic new styling is likely to be the first thing you’ll notice about this all-new CTS sedan, the changes are much more than just skin deep.
For starters, this new compact Caddy is built on a platform that’s both a couple of inches wider and significantly stronger. Those changes, along with a new suspension that’s been honed on Germany’s famous Nürburgring racetrack, give the CTS handling that’s simply beyond reproach.
There are two different 3.6-liter V-6 engines available, but the smooth new 304-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 with direct injection is the motor to buy, as it delivers impressive acceleration with little difference in fuel economy. Rear-wheel drive is still standard, but all-wheel drive is now available as an option.
The striking new interior design is made more attractive with the use of elegant, high-quality materials including hand-sewn leather and gorgeous wood trim. An available 300-watt, 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system and optional hard disk-based navigation system with real-time traffic alerts are as sophisticated as the rest of the vehicle.
Ultimately, we think all these changes make the new CTS an American car that can hold its own against some of Europe’s most vaunted sports sedans.
Strengths:
Excellent handling
Powerful new 304-horsepower V-6
Available 40-gig hard drive allows you to store tons of tunes
Optional navigation system’s intuitive user interface
Weaknesses:
Price tag soars when you start adding option packages
Six-speed manual (1SA)|Six-speed automatic with manual shift feature (1SB)
Wheels
17-inch alloy|18-inch alloy
Options
18-inch alloy wheels|Six-speed manual transmission |Six-speed automatic transmission |Sport suspension|High-performance brake system|High-performance cooling system|All-wheel drive|Limited-slip rear differential|Engine block heater|Xenon "adaptive" headlights|Dual-panel UltraView sunroof/rear skylight|Rain-sensing windshield wipers|Ultrasonic rear parking assist|Leather upholstery|Genuine wood interior trim|Power-adjustable front passenger seat|Heated/ventilated front seats|Heated front seats|Split-folding rear seatbacks|Power-adjustable steering column|Memory feature for driver's seat/outside mirrors|Universal garage door opener|Keyless entry/start system|Remote start|DVD-based GPS navigation system|Bose surround sound audio system with 10 speakers and 40GB hard drive|Six-disc, in-dash CD changer
Safety features
/*Antilock Brakes:*/|Standard|/*Electronic Stability Control:*/|Standard|/*Traction Control:*/|Standard|/*Multi-Stage front airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Impact Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Curtain Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Active Front Head Restraints:*/|Not Available|/*Tire Pressure Monitor:*/|Standard
