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2005 Cadillac CTS Full Review
Date Published: 8/27/08
Also in the 2005 Cadillac CTS Review:
2005 Cadillac CTS Review
Cadillac's smallest sedan gets a new base model for 2005. It uses a 210-hp 2.8-liter V6 and slots in below the 255-hp 3.8-liter V6 version. The high-performance CTS-V returns with a 400-hp 5.7-liter V8. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard for all. V6s offer an optional 5-speed automatic with Sport and Winter modes but no manual shift gate. Also standard are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and OnStar assistance.
Leather upholstery is optional for the 2.8, standard elsewhere. CTS-V includes xenon headlamps and an antiskid system, both optional for V6 models. An available Sport Package upgrades V6s with speed-variable steering assist, performance brakes, rear load-leveling suspension, and 17-inch wheels vs. 16s. CTS-V features unique exterior and interior touches, sport suspension, and 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires. A navigation system with voice activation is optional for V6 models. Satellite radio and a sunroof are available for all.
Leather upholstery is optional for the 2.8, standard elsewhere. CTS-V includes xenon headlamps and an antiskid system, both optional for V6 models. An available Sport Package upgrades V6s with speed-variable steering assist, performance brakes, rear load-leveling suspension, and 17-inch wheels vs. 16s. CTS-V features unique exterior and interior touches, sport suspension, and 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires. A navigation system with voice activation is optional for V6 models. Satellite radio and a sunroof are available for all.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.
Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, and the Lexus ES 330.
Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, and the Lexus ES 330.
News
Insiders are saying CTS will now be "re-engineered and restyled" for 2008. The makeover will be extensive, but may not amount to a full redesign.
Before then, perhaps for 2006, we see a possible "'tweener" CTS to fill the big price/performance gap between V6 models and the V8 V-Series. Cadillac isn't talking, but its 320-hp 4.6-liter "Northstar II" V8 should slot in with little trouble. We also think the CTS may offer all-wheel drive at some point. It would be the same basic system now available on Cadillac's new CTS-derived STS sedan.
Meanwhile, a prototype "CTS-V Plus" has been testing at Germany's famed Nurburgring racetrack, reportedly stuffed with a 6.0-liter Chevy Corvette V8 making 475-500 hp. GM hasn't confirmed production plans, but some sources think this model a candidate for 2006 or '07.
Before then, perhaps for 2006, we see a possible "'tweener" CTS to fill the big price/performance gap between V6 models and the V8 V-Series. Cadillac isn't talking, but its 320-hp 4.6-liter "Northstar II" V8 should slot in with little trouble. We also think the CTS may offer all-wheel drive at some point. It would be the same basic system now available on Cadillac's new CTS-derived STS sedan.
Meanwhile, a prototype "CTS-V Plus" has been testing at Germany's famed Nurburgring racetrack, reportedly stuffed with a 6.0-liter Chevy Corvette V8 making 475-500 hp. GM hasn't confirmed production plans, but some sources think this model a candidate for 2006 or '07.
2005 Cadillac CTS Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (3.6 V6, 5.7 V8) | Navigation-system controls |
| Steering/handling | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
The 2.8 V6 feels weak and inappropriate for this class. Smooth, lively 3.6 V6 a much better choice with automatic transmission, providing good low-speed punch and fine 45-70-mph pickup. Too bad the automatic lacks a manual shift gate. Smooth-shifting manual gearbox enhances CTS's sporting character. Pumped-up CTS-V delivers tire-spinning takeoffs, swift passing.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 4 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 6.6 |
The 2.8 V6 feels weak and inappropriate for this class. Smooth, lively 3.6 V6 a much better choice with automatic transmission, providing good low-speed punch and fine 45-70-mph pickup. Too bad the automatic lacks a manual shift gate. Smooth-shifting manual gearbox enhances CTS's sporting character. Pumped-up CTS-V delivers tire-spinning takeoffs, swift passing.
Fuel Economy
No opportunity to measure with 2.8 or with manual transmission. Test automatic 3.6 averaged 18.6 mpg, a CTS-V 16.8 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
No opportunity to measure with 2.8 or with manual transmission. Test automatic 3.6 averaged 18.6 mpg, a CTS-V 16.8 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for all engines.
Ride Quality
Solid structure works with compliant base suspension for good absorbency, though high-speed dips induce some unwanted bounce. Sport Package with 17-inch tires feels harsher over small bumps, but doesn't seriously degrade comfort. CTS-V very taut but not harsh.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.9 |
Solid structure works with compliant base suspension for good absorbency, though high-speed dips induce some unwanted bounce. Sport Package with 17-inch tires feels harsher over small bumps, but doesn't seriously degrade comfort. CTS-V very taut but not harsh.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Steering precise, but feels a tad light and artificial. Base suspension provides handling on par with most entry-level European rivals, but allows more body lean in fast cornering. Sport Package sharpens responses, improves grip. Some testers say V6 models' brake performance is top-notch, but others complain of excessive pedal travel. CTS-V steers, stops, corners with athletic poise.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.1 |
Steering precise, but feels a tad light and artificial. Base suspension provides handling on par with most entry-level European rivals, but allows more body lean in fast cornering. Sport Package sharpens responses, improves grip. Some testers say V6 models' brake performance is top-notch, but others complain of excessive pedal travel. CTS-V steers, stops, corners with athletic poise.
Quietness
Moderate wind rush at highway speeds, plus coarse-pavement tire rumble with Sport Package's low-profile 17-inch tires and CTS-V's 18-inch run-flats. The 2.8 V6 sounds coarse under throttle; 3.6 rarely intrudes, makes pleasing, "expensive" sounds. CTS-V accelerates with V8 rumble, prominent exhaust note.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.8 |
Moderate wind rush at highway speeds, plus coarse-pavement tire rumble with Sport Package's low-profile 17-inch tires and CTS-V's 18-inch run-flats. The 2.8 V6 sounds coarse under throttle; 3.6 rarely intrudes, makes pleasing, "expensive" sounds. CTS-V accelerates with V8 rumble, prominent exhaust note.
Controls
Tech-styled dashboard has clear gauges, simple automatic climate controls, but no automatic-transmission indicator. Steering-wheel thumbwheel serves as alternate audio-volume knob, but is too easy to hit by accident. Other steering-wheel buttons controls various functions depending on driver settings--a bit confusing. Navigation system absorbs some audio functions but isn't daunting, though its response to voice commands is inconsistent. Cabin materials good, but well short of Acura, Audi, BMW, Lexus.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Tech-styled dashboard has clear gauges, simple automatic climate controls, but no automatic-transmission indicator. Steering-wheel thumbwheel serves as alternate audio-volume knob, but is too easy to hit by accident. Other steering-wheel buttons controls various functions depending on driver settings--a bit confusing. Navigation system absorbs some audio functions but isn't daunting, though its response to voice commands is inconsistent. Cabin materials good, but well short of Acura, Audi, BMW, Lexus.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Roomy, but feels less so due to high cowl, lowish seats. Seats themselves firm, have good lateral bolstering, but penny-pinching GM charges extra for adjustable lumbar support on V6 models. CTS-V sport seats furnish useful extra side support for quick maneuvers. Thick-rim steering wheel feels good, tilts manually, but should telescope, too. Fine outward visibility.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.4 |
Roomy, but feels less so due to high cowl, lowish seats. Seats themselves firm, have good lateral bolstering, but penny-pinching GM charges extra for adjustable lumbar support on V6 models. CTS-V sport seats furnish useful extra side support for quick maneuvers. Thick-rim steering wheel feels good, tilts manually, but should telescope, too. Fine outward visibility.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Adults under 5-ft-11 ride without scrunching. Knee clearance compares favorably to others in class, toe space better than most, but seat comfort unexceptional.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Adults under 5-ft-11 ride without scrunching. Knee clearance compares favorably to others in class, toe space better than most, but seat comfort unexceptional.
Cargo Room
Long, broad trunk, but aperture not that large, though lid lifts high on nonintruding strut hinges. Split folding rear seatbacks standard on CTS-V, available on V6 models. Good interior storage.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
Long, broad trunk, but aperture not that large, though lid lifts high on nonintruding strut hinges. Split folding rear seatbacks standard on CTS-V, available on V6 models. Good interior storage.
Value within Class
Not everyone likes its looks, but the CTS is solid, rewarding to drive and competitively priced. We'd pass on the low-calorie 2.8 base model, but the 3.6 offers fine dollar value, plus the response and refinement expected in this class. The CTS-V is pricey, yet undercuts most V8 imports with similar performance.
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 6 | 9 | 8 | 5 | 5.9 |
Not everyone likes its looks, but the CTS is solid, rewarding to drive and competitively priced. We'd pass on the low-calorie 2.8 base model, but the 3.6 offers fine dollar value, plus the response and refinement expected in this class. The CTS-V is pricey, yet undercuts most V8 imports with similar performance.
Total Score
| 2.8, man. | 3.6, auto. | 3.6 w/Sport Pkg., man. | CTS-V | Class Average |
| 59 | 66 | 64 | 61 | 61.6 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 49 | |
| Average Score | 61 | |
| High Score | 72 |
2005 Cadillac CTS Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/17/2005
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2.8 4-door sedan | $30,190 | $27,926 | $695 |
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| 3.6 4-door sedan | $32,440 | $30,007 | $695 |
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| CTS-V 4-door sedan | $49,490 | $45,778 | $695 |
Price note: CTS-V adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
2.8
Powertrain
2.8-liter V6 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, wiper-activated headlights, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, OnStar assistance system w/one-year service, power steering, tilt steering wheel w/radio and climate controls, cruise control, vinyl upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, cupholders, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, analog clock, tachometer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, variable-intermittent wipers, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, 225/55HR16 tires, alloy wheels.
3.6 adds to 2.8:
Powertrain
3.6-liter V6 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
CTS-V adds to 3.6:
Powertrain
5.7-liter V8 engine.
Safety
Uprated brakes, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system, heated front seats w/power lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), split folding rear seat, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio, universal garage-door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Xenon headlights w/washers, performance suspension, 245/45WR18 run-flat tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Option Pkg. 1SC
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3.6
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$8,250
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$7,013
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Luxury Pkg. and Sport Pkg. plus power sunroof, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, split folding rear seat, xenon headlights w/washers, polished alloy wheels.
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Luxury Pkg.
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2.8, 3.6
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$3,165
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$2,690
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2.8 and 3.6 w/Sport Pkg.
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$2,615
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$2,223
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Heated front seats w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, driver-seat and mirror memory, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, universal garage-door opener, bright alloy wheels. 2.8 requires leather upholstery.
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Sport Pkg.
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2.8, 3.6
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$1,875
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$1,594
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3.6 liter w/California Pkg.
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$1,325
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$1,126
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Stabilitrak antiskid system, upgraded brake pads, variable-assist power steering, sport suspension, load-leveling rear suspension, 225/50WR17 tires, polished alloy wheels.
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California Pkg.
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3.6
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$1,820
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$1,548
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5-speed automatic transmission, 8-way power passenger seat. Available only in California.
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Luxury California Pkg.
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3.6
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$5,965
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$5,070
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Luxury Pkg. plus power sunroof, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio (requires monthly service fee after 3rd month). Available only in California.
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Powertrain |
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5-speed automatic transmission
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2.8, 3.6
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$1,200
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$1,020
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Navigation system
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3.6 w/Pkg. 1SC
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$1,850
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$1,573
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2.8, 3.6
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$3,125
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$2,656
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3.6 w/Luxury California Pkg.
|
$1,525
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$1,296
|
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Includes Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio. Satellite radio requires monthly fee after 3rd month.
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Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
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2.8, 3.6
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$1,275
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$1,084
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Satellite radio
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2.8, 3.6
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$325
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$276
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Requires monthly fee after 3rd month.
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Power sunroof
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2.8, 3.6, CTS-V
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$1,200
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$1,020
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Leather upholstery
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2.8
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$1,300
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$1,105
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Split folding rear seat
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2.8, 3.6
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$450
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$382
|
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Xenon headlights
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2.8, 3.6
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$645
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$548
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Includes headlight washers. Requires Sport Pkg.
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Engine-block heater
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2.8, 3.6, CTS-V
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$60
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$51
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Special paint
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2.8, 3.6, CTS-V
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$995
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$846
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Load-leveling suspension delete
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2.8, 3.6 (credit)
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$-185
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$-157
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Requires Sport Pkg.
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2005 Cadillac CTS Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Cadillac CTS 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 113.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 70.6 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3568 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.9 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | dohc V6 | ohv V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.8 /170 | 3.6 /217 | 5.7 /346 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 210 @ 6500 | 255 @ 6200 | 400 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 195 @ 3200 | 252 @ 3200 | 395 @ 4800 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
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| 6-speed manual | 17/27 | 17/27 | 15/23 |
| 5-speed automatic | 18/27 | 18/27 | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Cadillac CTS 4-door sedan |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 6/100,000 | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | Premium Care standard on XLR. Includes oil and oil filter replacement, engine air filter replacement, and passenger compartment air filter replacement at regularly scheduled maintenance intervals for the first four years or 50,000 miles. |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: Gas Guzzler Tax Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 16.76 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Chuck Giametta My cup of tea would be an S4 Avant for around $52,000. But no enthusiast would be shortchanged by this car's overall bearing. It's the only American high-performance sedan that's world class in size, specification (man. trans.), and speed. Mark Bilek CTS-V is a car that ANY car company would be proud to sell--the look is menacing and the performance awesome. Price is very favorable when compared to other V-8 luxury sport sedans--if you include all of CTS-Vs standard extras that are costly options on competitors. Rick Cotta Yes it has 400 hp and yes, it comes loaded, but $50K just seems too much for the CTS-V--especially when the base model stickers for $32K. Tom Appel If a genie granted be five cars, this would be one of them--at least until I lost enough weight to fit in an Elise. |
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Also in the 2005 Cadillac CTS Review:
1.
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4.
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