2003-2007 Cadillac CTS: Road Test

Cadillac's 3.6-liter V6 is lively and smooth--noticeably more powerful and refined than the 3.2-liter. It benefits from the well-matched automatic transmission's crisp, subtle shifts to provide good response around town, plus fine acceleration in the important 45-70 mph range. A manual shift gate would reinforce CTS's sporting character, however. The 3.2's manual transmission changes gears slickly. The latest six-speed feels a bit notchy, but adds to the CTS's sporting character. Simply put, the CTS-V delivers muscle-car power for tire-spinning launches and no-delay passing/merging. A test 3.6-liter CTS averaged 18.6 mpg, while a 3.2-liter manual averaged 21.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. The CTS-V has averaged 16.8 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines. As for ride comfort, resolutely solid structure works with a compliant base suspension for good absorbency. The Sport Package's 17-inch tires contribute to a slightly less-forgiving feel over bumps, but with little loss of comfort. The CTS-V's suspension is taut, but not harsh. Steering efforts feels somewhat artificial, but the steering itself seldom feels imprecise. Handling with the base suspension compares favorably to the standard setup on most entry-level European rivals, despite distinct body lean in fast turns. The Sport Package rewards with sharper responses and better grip in quick directional changes. Test drivers have split on V6 brake performance: it's top-notch to some, but others complain of excessive pedal travel. The CTS-V, steers, stops, and changes direction with athletic poise. All V6s are quiet while cruising, but the 3.2 snarls under full throttle, and never sounds rich. The 3.6-liter is always well-bred, rarely intrudes, and makes pleasing sounds. Moderate highway-speed wind rush may be noticed. Sport Package tires, and those on the CTS-V rumble on coarse pavement. Acceleration with the CTS-V is accompanied by V8 gurgle and a prominent exhaust note. Interior ambience is tech-modern and angular, with a big speedometer and tachometer. Bright readouts inform about the simple automatic climate system. An innovative steering-wheel thumbwheel supplements audio-volume control, but it's subject to inadvertent adjustment. Other steering-wheel buttons change duty according to driver preference--an unorthodox and overly complicated system. The automatic-transmission gear position does not display in the instrument panel. Cadillac's navigation system governs some audio functions, and does a good job of integrating controls for both, though its response to voice commands is inconsistent. Cabin materials are good, but they fall short of the class standard set by Audi and Lexus. In the roomy front seat, a high cowl and tall side sills contribute to a closed-in feel. Firm base-model seats provide outstanding lateral bolstering and, starting in 2004, could have adjustable lumbar support. Sport seats in the CTS-V add support during quick maneuvers. The steering wheel is satisfyingly thick-rimmed and tilts manually, but does not telescope. Expect fine outward visibility Adults under 5-feet-11 fit in back without scrunching. Knee clearance compares favorably with others in its class, and toe space is better than most. The trunk is long and broad, with a lid that opens wide on nonintruding strut hinges, but the opening itself is not generous. Split-folding rear seatbacks have been available (standard on CTS-V). Interior storage is good.

Value for the Money
Bold styling may polarize opinions, but this solid, sporty sedan is rewarding to drive, especially with the 3.6-liter V6. That powertrain provides the response and refinement expected in a premium midsize sedan, and qualifies the CTS as a Best Buy in its class. Not everyone needs its power, but the rapid-rolling CTS-V costs much less than most V8 import rivals.