Redemption
There's plenty of redemption in the form of the ride. On the road, the tester presented a nice blend between comfort and sportiness, never feeling jarring or offensive over even the most poorly-maintained roads.
Though the CTS Coupe is set up for "comfort first", it's still relatively happy to be tossed around some bends. It's locked down and stable, but without feeling unwilling. It may not be a G37 Coupe where handling is concerned, but most will find it adequately sharp and entertaining without feeling overstimulated.
The AWD system, which is referenced to by the '4' in the name badge, adds some all-season stability to the package, too. Stand on the throttle out of a traffic light, and the car simply sails away with no traction-related drama. In the snow, a rear-drive bias enhances throttle-steerability and empty parking lot shenanigans.
A six-speed automatic with manual mode is standard on AWD models, while standard rear-drive CTS coupes get a six-speed stick, which is fantastic. With the automatic, manual-mode shifts are just quick and obedient enough to warrant making them, and once the transmission learns the driver's habits, automatic gearchanges during gentle driving are nearly imperceptible.
As a whole, the drivetrain isn't quite as snappy and responsive as some of the comparable German or Japanese hardware out there, but the CTS coupe's engine is smooth and quiet when driven gently, moves the car along in a relative hurry once it's spinning fast, and sounds pleasing when pushed.
The American
Those comfortable with traditional coupe compromises will likely find the CTS4 Coupe a good all-weather, all-around cruiser with a touch of sportiness and a great deal of personality and presence. End of the day, shoppers considering a high-end, comfortable and stylish coupe with great detailing inside and out should definitely give it a look.
There's plenty of redemption in the form of the ride. On the road, the tester presented a nice blend between comfort and sportiness, never feeling jarring or offensive over even the most poorly-maintained roads.
Though the CTS Coupe is set up for "comfort first", it's still relatively happy to be tossed around some bends. It's locked down and stable, but without feeling unwilling. It may not be a G37 Coupe where handling is concerned, but most will find it adequately sharp and entertaining without feeling overstimulated.
The AWD system, which is referenced to by the '4' in the name badge, adds some all-season stability to the package, too. Stand on the throttle out of a traffic light, and the car simply sails away with no traction-related drama. In the snow, a rear-drive bias enhances throttle-steerability and empty parking lot shenanigans.
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| Do not miss trying the CTS4 if you want a luxury, stylish and comfortable coupe. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
A six-speed automatic with manual mode is standard on AWD models, while standard rear-drive CTS coupes get a six-speed stick, which is fantastic. With the automatic, manual-mode shifts are just quick and obedient enough to warrant making them, and once the transmission learns the driver's habits, automatic gearchanges during gentle driving are nearly imperceptible.
As a whole, the drivetrain isn't quite as snappy and responsive as some of the comparable German or Japanese hardware out there, but the CTS coupe's engine is smooth and quiet when driven gently, moves the car along in a relative hurry once it's spinning fast, and sounds pleasing when pushed.
The American
Those comfortable with traditional coupe compromises will likely find the CTS4 Coupe a good all-weather, all-around cruiser with a touch of sportiness and a great deal of personality and presence. End of the day, shoppers considering a high-end, comfortable and stylish coupe with great detailing inside and out should definitely give it a look.
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