The high-performance version of Cadillac's midsize CTS, the CTS-V is one luxury sedan that can run with even the most track-worthy sports cars. The credit for this feat goes to its sophisticated suspension and the supercharged V8 lurking under the hood.
All models receive Teen Driver technology so parents can monitor driving habits. The newly available Rear Camera Mirror provides a wider view of road behind you. There's also a new Carbon Black package that gives the exterior a more intimidating look.
While the rest of the CTS line makes do with four-cylinder or V6 power, the CTS-V features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine that lays down 640 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters sends all that power to the rear wheels. The CTS-V scoots from zero to 60 mph in under 4 seconds, and has a boasted top speed of 200 mph.
Other performance enhancements include an adaptive sport suspension, an electronic limited-slip rear differential, Brembo brakes, and 19-inch wheels with summer performance tires. Drivers have a choice of driving modes: Snow, Tour, Sport, and Track. When in Track mode, you can pick from five levels of traction control to suit your driving ambitions.
Befitting a car of its exclusivity, the CTS-V comes in a single trim level with standard features such as heated and ventilated front seats, remote start, an automated parking system, navigation, configurable high-definition gauges, a head-up display, and a front curb-view camera. Seats are clad in leather with faux suede accents. The 13-speaker Bose surround-sound system features HD and satellite radio. Safety technology is present in full force, including lane keeping assist, front collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a vibrating safety warning built into the driver seat.
The available Luxury package gets you three-zone climate control, a split-folding heated rear seat, a power rear sunshade, and the new Rear Camera Mirror, which displays a streaming image from the rear camera in the rearview mirror. A panoramic sunroof can be added to this package at extra cost. There's also an Advanced Security package that adds a highly sophisticated alarm system, a steering column lock, and other anti-theft equipment.
The Carbon Fiber package tacks on a carbon fiber hood vent, front splitter, rear spoiler, and rear diffuser. The new Carbon Black package gives you all that, plus a black chrome grille and dark wheels.
Cadillac offers a small but intriguing selection of individual options, including a performance data and video recorder, Recaro racing seats, and painted brake calipers (red or dark gold).
The Luxury package ($2,075) includes some items that should be standard on a car of this caliber, so we would definitely spring for it. We suspect very few examples are produced without it. It's mandatory if you want a sunroof, which adds another $1,450.
