The healthy output finds its way to the rear wheels via a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Together they lure the CTS from 0-100kph in approximately 6.5 seconds. En-route to a metric century, expect to be serenaded with a sizeable but refined growl from the hotter V6. A 6-speed Aisin manual gearbox is available as standard equipment to please those yearning for the old ways.
For drivers accessing ski resorts or subject to inclement weather, Cadillac offers the CTS with all-wheel-drive (AWD), which would definitely pay dividends to wet-climate users. Still, the vehicle comes with a limited-slip rear differential; definitely beneficial on traction-compromised surfaces. GM's Traction Control and their full-range StabiliTrak program are also provided as standard fare.
Nürburgring-tuned chassis improves handling prowess
Cadillac is hoping to take on the big guns in the sport sedan category. To do so, their engineers spent a lot of time on the famous Nurburgring Road Course tweaking the underpinnings of the CTS. Although my testing didn't include hot laps around Nurburgring or any other such venue, I was impressed with the car's neutral handling dynamic and its decisive, tenacious cornering ability.
My tester was equipped with the Sport Package, which includes 18-inch wheels and a performance-handling suspension setup, which undoubtedly contributed to the sedan's road-worthiness while delivering a taut yet composed and reasonably compliant ride quality. The structural integrity of the CTS is unified and solid in feel.
Overall the CTS driving experience, in terms of ride and handling, is not unlike that of its closest European rivals- and that's an attribute not normally associated with Cadillac.
Luxury and content abound- but at what price?
More notably associated with Cadillac is luxury, and in this regard the CTS is all Cadillac however expect to pony-up heavily to acquire a "full load." The base price of my tester was $41,400, which is very reasonable for a vehicle competing in the premium sports sedan segment. At this price, the entry-level Caddy is well equipped, and offers tremendous value.
Nevertheless with its various option packages, my tester was stickered at $58,555, a far cry from the 41 and change it grew from. At $3,900, the priciest box on the order sheet belongs to the 10-speaker premium audio/navigation system, which includes a 40GB hard drive. The 6-speed autobox commands another $1,700.
For drivers accessing ski resorts or subject to inclement weather, Cadillac offers the CTS with all-wheel-drive (AWD), which would definitely pay dividends to wet-climate users. Still, the vehicle comes with a limited-slip rear differential; definitely beneficial on traction-compromised surfaces. GM's Traction Control and their full-range StabiliTrak program are also provided as standard fare.
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| The White Diamond paint adds to the luxurious experience. |
Nürburgring-tuned chassis improves handling prowess
Cadillac is hoping to take on the big guns in the sport sedan category. To do so, their engineers spent a lot of time on the famous Nurburgring Road Course tweaking the underpinnings of the CTS. Although my testing didn't include hot laps around Nurburgring or any other such venue, I was impressed with the car's neutral handling dynamic and its decisive, tenacious cornering ability.
My tester was equipped with the Sport Package, which includes 18-inch wheels and a performance-handling suspension setup, which undoubtedly contributed to the sedan's road-worthiness while delivering a taut yet composed and reasonably compliant ride quality. The structural integrity of the CTS is unified and solid in feel.
Overall the CTS driving experience, in terms of ride and handling, is not unlike that of its closest European rivals- and that's an attribute not normally associated with Cadillac.
Luxury and content abound- but at what price?
More notably associated with Cadillac is luxury, and in this regard the CTS is all Cadillac however expect to pony-up heavily to acquire a "full load." The base price of my tester was $41,400, which is very reasonable for a vehicle competing in the premium sports sedan segment. At this price, the entry-level Caddy is well equipped, and offers tremendous value.
Nevertheless with its various option packages, my tester was stickered at $58,555, a far cry from the 41 and change it grew from. At $3,900, the priciest box on the order sheet belongs to the 10-speaker premium audio/navigation system, which includes a 40GB hard drive. The 6-speed autobox commands another $1,700.
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| With options, the CTS price tag can reach up to 60,000$. |