CADILLAC CTS
Generations Timeline, Specs and Pictures
The third generation Cadillac CTS sedan is a midsize luxury sedan that is defined by performance, elevated luxury and sophisticated technology.
It is based on the high-performance rear-drive ATS sport sedan architecture, that will enable it to be the most agile and dynamic car in the class. Engine range include the all-new Cadillac Twin-Turbo engine bolted to an eight-speed automatic transmission. To enhance performance it also includes multi-link MacPherson strut suspension for the front, five-link independent rear suspension, available all-wheel-drive and Magnetic Ride Control.
To balance the car, the front suspension is made of aluminum, while at the back is mostly made of steel. Design wise, sharp lines and the Cadillac’s signature shield grille and vertical lighting elements are defining the automaker’s style. The grille is wider, while the headlights are flowing up with the hood line, incorporating a strip of LED lights that runs down until it meets the lower spoiler lip. The interior is roomy and driver oriented, with eight environment trimmings available, each fitted with wood, carbon fiber or aluminum and leather. Among Cadillac’s technologies, the CTS include heated and cooled 20-way adjustable front seats, electronically locking glove box, adaptive remote start feature, panic brake assist, lane departure warning and other. Worth mentioning is that the new CTS will be the first car from Cadillac to have Automatic Parking Assist, which enables it to park itself in a parallel space.
GM introduced the all-new (second generation) Cadillac CTS at the North American International Auto Show in January 2007.
The new model was equipped with a standard 3.6-liter variable valve timing V6 unit delivering no less than 258 hp. The new CTS also received a more powerful power plant - the 3.6 direct-injection V6 VVT - producing 304 hp, while also featuring a redesigned brake system for more stopping power. GM launched a coupe version of this model in early 2008, at the North American International Auto Show, while also unveiling the CTS-V performance sedan variant.
In the search for a new trend, Cadillac launched the 2003 CTS after an intensive development on the Nurburgring race-track.
The design was radically changed from what it was known before.
The car looked fresh and ready to tackle the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It was not that old-school looking car. The Cadillac management finally understood that young customers won’t buy a car that looked old even when it was new. The CTS changed that and the Origami Style was a bad surprise for the older customers and good news for the younger ones.
With its vertical headlights and wedge-shaped bodywork, the CTS looked stylish and modern. The square scoops in the bumper were filled with fog-lights and parking lights. The grille started to feature a vague V-shape on the bottom. Viewed from the sides, the raked A- and C-pillars evoked a more dynamic profile.
Inside, the faux-wood trims on the steering wheel, center console, center stack, and door panels looked good. In that department, Cadillac had good designers and knew their job. The audio system featured a tape-player and a CD-Changer. There was enough room both in the front and on the back seat.
The car was engineered with help from the Opel engineers, who knew how to build a car by European standards. Since the CTS replaced the Catera (which was a re-badged Opel Omega with more chrome on it), the result had to be over that. The CTS was offered with a better suspension and drivetrain. A self-leveling rear suspension was offered as an option.