Cadillac, the long-time luxury arm of General Motors, introduces the totally redesigned, second-generation CTS sport sedan amid much fanfare. The first effort in 2002 helped turn the struggling division around with a car matching the hype Cadillac bestowed in its direction. The sharp-edged design of this entry-level sedan was a stark contrast to the smooth, curved body styles from competitors while a smooth V-6 power plant supplied the get-up-and-go in a potently refined, not over powering manner. Many folks credit the CTS sedan and full-size Escalade sport utility launches for returning Cadillac to profitability.
Now, the second effort is a finalist in the prestigious 2008 "North American Car of the year" voting held mid January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This voting carries more weight than many other "car of the year" awards since the voting is cast by 48 members of the automotive media from many different disciplines, not just a single magazine or web site. The two other finalists for the award are the 2008 Honda Accord and 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Of the three finalists, the mid-size Cadillac CTS ranks as the most fun to drive and the most costly. It's a sport-tuned sedan, not a family-hauling four-door like the Accord or Malibu. Of the three, the CTS is the only one with sportier rear-wheel-drive standard. It's also the only offering optional all-wheel drive (new for 2008).The 2008 CTS went on sale in August of 2007 and continues to be assembled in Lansing, Mich.
Starting price with destination charge is $32,990, ranking CTS as the least-expensive Cadillac offering. The list of mix and match options is substantial and add up quickly. All-wheel-drive is a $1,900 extra. Our test vehicle added up to $44,325 with extras like upgraded stereo with MP3 format, navigation system, premium paint and compact spare tire.
While the wheelbase measures the same as the first generation's (113.4-inches), length is stretched by 1.5 inches while the width increases by almost two inches. These dimensions help support a totally revised suspension and braking system.
Two double-overhead-cam engines are available in CTS models sold in North America. The base 3.6-liter V-6 cranks out 263 horses. It's mated with a standard six-speed manual transmission while a six-speed automatic is optional. Our rear-drive, red test model included the more potent 3.6-liter direct injection V-6 boosting horsepower to 304. This engine comes with six-speed automatic transmission standard while the six-speed manual is optional. One notable aspect is that both engines recommend regular, 87-octane fuel. Many sporty mid-sized competitors from Asia and Germany opt for pricier premium petro. The tank holds 18 gallons of gasoline. Fuel estimates for our direct injection V-6 with automatic transmission listed at 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Trunk volume is 13.6 cubic feet, average at best for a mid-sized sedan. The trunk has a convenient grab handle built into the inside lid for easier closing. Shock-absorber-type hinges are outside the cargo area; no inside goose-neck hinges which could interfere with some packages. The car battery is located in a cubby hole on the right side of the trunk compartment.
Visually, the second-generation CTS strongly resembles the first-generation effort. A good decision since the edgy styling retains a modern look. The rear deck lid design stands tall from the ground up, with a short length, creating a high-back-to-low-front design. The rear brake light is found at the back edge of the lid. Dual exhausts add to a sporty look. All four side door, strap-like handles are body colored. The first-generation CTS incorporated cup-like door handles. In front, tall, vertical arranged headlight housing flanks a large, horizontal grille with circular, centered Cadillac crest. Front fenders now have new chrome extractor vents about four inches wide and two inches tall for a sporty look.
Cadillac blazed the way for General Motors with its attractive and much-improved interior look and quality. The CTS has a two-tone leatherette interior with a polished wood grain rail splitting the two hues. Many newly introduced GM models have splendid interiors, including the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
A great feature, optional in CTS, and showing up on more vehicles, is active (turning) headlights that swivel when turning the steering wheel, helping to better illuminate where the car is actually headed.
Inside, the instrument panel includes three independent, tube-like, chrome-trimmed, mid-size circular analog gauges. The ignition cylinder is found on the steering column. The long, narrow center console features an analog clock (with hands and a face) on top, adding a touch of elegance. The parking brake is foot operated. Opt for the optional navigation system if the budget allows. It's one of the most intuitive units found in a luxury vehicle, easy to follow with a screen that extends up from the dashboard top when in use. A three-dimensional view with colorful, not overpowering graphics is available with large, easy-to- read type. Many navigation systems found in German-badged vehicles need a Geek Squad associate nearby.
Power window and side view mirror controls are on the driver's door at a 45-degree angle below the arm rest. Power locks are further up the door. In between the front bucket seats are side-by-side dual cup holders. The automatic transmission shifter is positioned ahead, but could use better illumination at night. Yes, a second gear shift indicator is found on the instrument panel, but it's always nice to easily view a lighted gear shift to double check if the car in drive and not low gear. Standard cruise control functions are found on the three-spoke steering wheel.
Driver's and front passenger bucket seats are positioned a bit lower than what's found in most family-oriented sedans, although the power driver's seat is height-adjustable. The back bench seat holds three adults, although a floor hump (in this rear-drive test model) ran the length of the floor. Rear seat backs do not fold down, but a pass-though window is available for toting skis or other long items.
Notable safety features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, side-mounted air bags for the two front drivers and front and rear head air bags.
Responsive steering requires just a slight move of the three-spoke steering wheel for the CTS to react. The front hood slopes at such an angle that it's sometimes difficult for drivers to determine where the front edge ends. CTS is priced higher than some rivals (Mercedes-Benz C-Class- $31,200), less than others (Lexus ES 360-$33,720). For those in the market for an American-built and badged entry luxury sedan with performance characteristics enjoyable during everyday commuting, this is the best bet. CTS is covered by GM's recently upgraded five-year 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
The first-generation CTS included a high-performance "V" designate with enhanced braking, steering and suspension upgrades. Look for the "V" edition in this second-generation Cadillac CTS to be introduced soon. |