2006 Cadillac CTS Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Cadillac's smallest sedan gets revised sport and performance packages for 2006. Three models are offered. CTS 2.8 has a 210-hp V6. CTS 3.6 has a 255-hp V6. The high-performance CTS-V has a 400-hp V8. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard for all. V6s offer a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Also standard are ABS, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and OnStar assistance. Leather upholstery is optional for the 2.8, standard elsewhere. For '06, the available Sport Package adds to V6s a limited-slip differential, antiskid system, xenon headlights, sport suspension, and 17-inch wheels vs. 16s. The revised Wheel Performance Package adds to the 3.6 model speed-variable steering assist, uprated brakes, sport suspension, load-leveling suspension, and 18-inch wheels. Added during the model year, the Wheel Sport Appearance Package gives the 3.6 CTS-V-style trim elements. CTS-V includes the sport suspension, uprated brakes, antiskid system, and 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires. A navigation system with voice activation is optional for V6 models, standard for CTS-V.

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 Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti M. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, Lexus ES 330, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include Lexus GS, Lincoln Zephyr, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.

News

A redesigned 2008 CTS is due in the first half of calendar '07 with slightly larger size and a more dramatic rendition of the current model's edgy look. Sources say all-wheel drive will be available as well as rear drive. Other powerteam details are unconfirmed, but the two V6 engines should return with improvements. Ditto their manual and automatic transmissions, though a 6-speed automatic could replace today's 5-speeder. The next high-power CTS-V is rumored to get a supercharged Cadillac V8 that will outpower the current model's Corvette engine. Cadillac may also offer a lower-priced V8 CTS with around 300 hp. Last but not least, one source says coupe versions (CTC?) will be added as 2009 models. Cadillac's last 4-passenger coupe, the Eldorado, was dropped after 2003.

2006 Cadillac CTS Road Test

Pros	Cons

Acceleration (3.6, CTS-V)	Navigation-system controls

Steering/handling

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
4	7	7	8	6.7

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. Smooth-shifting manual gearbox enhances CTS's sporting character. No opportunity yet to drive CTS-V with the new 6.0 V8, but previous 5.7 V8 models with the same 400 hp delivered tire-spinning takeoffs, swift passing.

Fuel Economy

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
5	5	5	4	4.6

No opportunity to measure with 2.8 V6 or 3.6 V6 with manual transmission. Test automatic 3.6 averaged 18.6 mpg. Test CTS-V averaged 17.0 mpg. Cadillac recommends premium-grade fuel for the V8, regular grade for the V6s.

Ride Quality

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
7	7	7	6	6.7

Solid structure works with compliant base suspension for good absorbency, though high-speed dips induce some unwanted bounce. Wheel Performance Package with 18-inch tires feels harsher over small bumps, but doesn't seriously degrade comfort. CTS-V very taut, but not harsh.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. 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. Wheel Performance Package 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

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
6	7	6	5	6.8

Moderate wind rush at highway speeds, plus coarse-pavement tire rumble with low-profile Wheel Performance Package's 18-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

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. 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 control 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, and Lexus.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
7	7	7	8	7.4

Roomy, but feels less so due to high cowl, lowish seats. Seats are firm, have good lateral bolstering, but adjustable lumbar support not standard 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)

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
5	5	5	5	5.5

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

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
3	3	3	3	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

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
4	9	8	6	5.9

The Best Buy 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 of similar performance.

Total Score

2.8, man.	3.6, auto.	3.6 w/Wheel Perf. Pkg., man.	CTS-V	Class Average
55	64	62	60	61.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score		48
Average Score		61
High Score		72

2006 Cadillac CTS Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 05/26/2006

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

2.8 4-door sedan	$29,270	$27,367	$720

3.6 4-door sedan	$31,970	$29,892	$720

CTS-V 4-door sedan	$50,675	$46,368	$720

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 leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio and climate controls, cruise control, vinyl upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, cupholders, trunk pass-through, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, satellite radio (requires monthly fee after 3rd month), 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, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel.

CTS-V adds to 3.6:

Powertrain

6.0-liter V8 engine.

Safety

Uprated brakes, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Navigation system w/voice recognition, leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather/suede upholstery, heated front seats w/lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), split folding rear seat, power sunroof, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, universal garage door opener.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Xenon headlights w/washers, performance suspension, 245/45VR18 run-flat tires.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Luxury Pkg.
2.8	$2,350	$1,951
2.8 w/Sport Pkg.	$1,800	$1,494
3.6	$2,100	$1,743
3.6 w/Sport Pkg. or Wheel Performance Pkg.	$1,550	$1,287
Heated front seats w/lumbar adjustment, 10-way power front seats, driver-seat and mirror memory, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel, wood shift knob, compass, universal garage door opener, bright alloy wheels. 2.8 requires leather upholstery.

Wheel Sport Appearance Pkg.
3.6	$3,600	$3,366
Wheel Performance Pkg. plus chrome mesh grille, rear spoiler, unique exterior trim. NA w/California Pkg.

Wheel Performance Pkg.
3.6	$2,285	$1,896
Limited-slip differential, antiskid system, uprated brakes, tire-pressure monitor, variable-assist power steering, xenon headlights w/washers, performance suspension, load-leveling rear suspension, 225/50WR18 tires, polished alloy wheels.

Sport Pkg.
2.8, 3.6	$1,640	$1,361
Limited-slip differential, antiskid system, xenon headlights w/washers, sport suspension, 225/50WR17 tires, polished alloy wheels.

Luxury California Pkg.
3.6	$2,100	$
Luxury Pkg. plus power sunroof, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Available only in California.

Powertrain
5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
2.8, 3.6	$1,200	$996


Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
2.8, 3.6	$2,995	$2,486
3.6 w/Luxury California Pkg.	$1,995	$1,656
Includes voice recognition, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
2.8, 3.6	$1,000	$830


Power sunroof
2.8, 3.6	$1,200	$996


Power sunroof delete
CTS-V (credit)	$-1,200	$-996


Leather upholstery
2.8	$1,300	$1,079


Split folding rear seat
2.8, 3.6	$400	$332


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine-block heater
2.8, 3.6, CTS-V	$100	$83


Special paint
2.8, 3.6, CTS-V	$995	$826


Engine Appearance Pkg.
CTS-V	$1,500	$1,163
Carbon-fibre engine cover shock tower brace.

Performance shock absorber pkg.
CTS-V	$1,260	$1,046


245/45WR18 tires
CTS-V	$550	$457

2006 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.	3694

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	6.0 /364

Horsepower @ rpm.	210 @ 6500	255 @ 6200	400 @ 6000

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	194 @ 3200	252 @ 3100	395 @ 4400

Availability	Standard	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

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

Front Impact, Driver	4

Front Impact, Passenger	4

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

Tester's Comments

(what's this?)

Vehicle Evaluated: 2006 Cadillac CTS
Trim Level: CTS-V
Arrival Date: 10/12/2006
Engine: ohv V8
Bodystyle: 4-door sedan
Transmission: 6-speed manual
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: $51,394
Price as Tested: $51,395
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 7196
Mileage at End of Test: 7456
Total Measured Miles:
Total Fuel Used: 19.623 gals.

Major Options: N/A

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 13.25 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None

From The Back Seat
Ed Piotrowski This car has the power and handling to compete with Germany's best factory-tuned luxury sport sedans. Unless you can get a screaming good deal on a new or used one, skip this generation and wait for the model-year 2008 refresh. If that CTS gets an interior similar to the '07 SRX, this hotrod Caddy will also match Audi and BMW for opulence. Keep your fingers crossed.

Kirk Bell I love the CTS-V in every way but one--the price. I could see looking for one of these used as my regular car, but the $18,000 premium over a 3.6 is just too much to buy new. That amounts to about $12K for an engine that's probably less expensive to manufacture than the 3.6. Nonetheless, the CTS-V is a great car with tons of power, good room, and fine handling. It would be a deal at $40K, and priced right at $45K.

Tom Appel You could almost pass this indulgence off as practical, given the sufficiently roomy rear passenger area and not entirely crazy price--not to my wife, mind you. CTS-V is a blast to drive, and I am delighted GM chose to build it, but you could almost buy a Honda Accord and a stripper BMW Z4 for this kinda dough.

< 2006 Cadillac CTS Photos

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Cadillac CTS Specs & Safety

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