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2008 Cadillac CTS Full Review
Date Published: 4/30/08
2008 Cadillac CTS Review
The 2008 Cadillac CTS is redesigned this year, gaining new styling, more available power, and new features. The '08 CTS is similar in size to the 2003-2007 generation and has similar interior accommodations. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available for the first time. Base and Direct Injection models are offered. The base model has a 263-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine. Named for its engine, the Direct Injection model has a 304-horsepower V6. Both engines team with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. CTS's interior is redesigned and is available with real wood trim. Other newly available features include steering-linked headlamps and keyless entry and ignition. A navigation system is optional.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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.

Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.

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2008 Cadillac CTS Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration Air-vent location
Handling Rear-seat room
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
6 6 8 8 7

With automatic transmission, both engines have good low-speed punch and plenty of passing power, with the Direct Injection model providing more muscle at all times. Automatic provides seamless and timely shifts. No opportunity to test with the manual transmission or AWD.
Fuel Economy

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
5 5 6 6 4.6

In Consumer Guide testing, a base sedan with automatic transmission averaged 19.1 mpg. A Direct Injection sedan with the automatic averaged 22.2 mpg. All CTS models use regular-grade gas.
Ride Quality

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
7 4 7 4 6.3

CTS with the standard suspension has a reassuring, solid feel, with a compliant ride and excellent bump absorption. Most road imperfections are more heard than actually felt. The available Summer Tire Performance Package is a huge detriment to ride quality, adding undue stiffness with little appreciable gain in handling.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
6 7 6 7 7.1

With the standard suspension, CTS approaches, but can't quite reach, the high standards of the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G. The steering feel is precise in turns. Lean in corners is well checked, though CTS doesn't feel quite as agile in quick transitions as its key German rivals. Brake feel and performance are impressive on all models. The available Summer Tire Performance Package does little to enhance CTS's sporting character but takes a huge toll on ride quality.
Quietness

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
7 7 8 7 7

The cabin is impressively hushed overall. Coarse pavement tire roar can intrude at speed, but it's only noticeable because the rest of the car is quiet. The base engine is generally well behaved but can sound unrefined during acceleration. The Direct Injection engine is notably more polished, even when pushed. Road noise levels increase with the available summer tires.
Controls

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
8 8 8 8 6.1

Major gauges are large and easy to read. Some testers, though, feel CTS puts form over function when it comes to the use of major controls. The v-shape center console stack puts most buttons into a smallish area of the dashboard. The buttons are high set and easily seen, though. The navigation system screen is large, legible, and quickly powers up or down.
Details

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
8 8 8 8 7.4

Cadillac addresses a major CTS complaint for 2008, upgrading interior materials and design markedly. Luxury grade trim now rivals the best-in-class, with apparent improvements in assembly quality.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
7 7 7 7 7.3

Seats are roomy and supportive, complemented by a standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Rakish roof line hurts visibility, however, with thick rear pillars being a particular hindrance to the outward view. Note that some testers found that one of the central-dash vents blew directly onto the driver's hand and could not be adjusted away--a major annoyance with the air conditioning running.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
5 5 5 5 5.2

Adequate rear seat space, though larger adults will feel crowded. Marginal headroom is further reduced by the available sunroof.
Cargo Room

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
3 3 3 3 4.1

Usefulness of the boxy trunk is compromised by a small opening. The optional split folding rear seatbacks fold completely flat to accommodate longer parcels. Interior storage includes a center console and glovebox that aren't that large.
Value within Class

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
9 7 10 6 6.2

Major interior upgrade addresses the previous CTS's most glaring flaws, while the new direct-injection engine delivers class-topping refinement and performance. Cadillac's smallest sedan is finally a legitimate alternative to cars from Audi, BMW, and Infiniti. Competitive pricing is icing on the cake for this Best Buy premium midsize sedan.
Total Score

Base, automatic Base w/Performance Pkg., automatic Direct Injection, automatic Direct Injection w/Performance Pkg., automatic Class Average
71 67 76 69 68.3
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
56
Average Score
68
High Score
78
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2008 Cadillac CTS Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/29/2008
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Base 4-door sedan $33,245 $31,084 $745
Direct Injection 4-door sedan $35,545 $33,235 $745
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
Base
Powertrain
3.6-liter 263-horsepower V6 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, 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, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio and climate controls, cruise control, vinyl upholstery, front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat, center console, trunk pass-through, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, tachometer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, variable-intermittent wipers, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 235/55HR17 tires, alloy wheels.
Direct Injection adds to Base:
Powertrain
3.6-liter 304-horsepower V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Seating Pkg.
Base, Direct Injection
$2,200
$1,826
Leather upholstery, heated 10-way power front seats w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), heated washer fluid.
Luxury Level One Pkg.
Base, Direct Injection
$1,000
$830
ordered w/Performance Collection
$850
$705
Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, rain-sensing wipers, accent lighting, alarm, machined alloy wheels. Requires Seating Pkg. or Performance Collection.
Luxury Collection
Base, Direct Injection
$2,600
$2,158
Luxury Level One Pkg. plus Seating Pkg. NA w/Performance Collection, All-Season Tire Performance Pkg.
Premium Luxury Collection
Base, Direct Injection
$8,165
$6,777
Luxury Level One Pkg., Seating Pkg., plus rear-obstacle-detection system, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel w/memory, heated/cooled front seats, split folding rear seat, navigation system, traffic information, hard drive, digital-media player connection, upgraded Bose sound system, remote engine start (w/6-speed automatic transmission), universal garage door opener, wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, wood interior trim, power sunroof, universal garage door opener. Replaces Luxury Level One Pkg. 6-disc CD/MP3 changer w/single disc CD/MP3 player.
All-Season Tire Performance Pkg.
Base, Direct Injection
$1,740
$1,444
Limited-slip differential, heavy-duty cooling system, uprated brakes (Direct Injection), fog lights, steering-linked adaptive xenon headlights w/washers, sport suspension, 235/50VR18 all-season tires, unique alloy wheels. Base w/all-wheel drive requires uprated brakes. NA w/6-speed manual transmission.
Summer Tire Performance Pkg.
Direct Injection
$2,980
$2,473
Direct Injection w/Premium Luxury Collection
$2,430
$2,017
Direct Injection w/Performance Collection or Performance Luxury Pkg.
$1,240
$1,029
Limited-slip differential, heavy-duty cooling system (ordered w/6-speed automatic), uprated brakes, fog lights, steering-linked adaptive xenon headlights w/washers, performance suspension, 235/55ZR18 summer tires, polished alloy wheels. NA w/all-wheel drive.
Performance Collection
Base, Direct Injection
$3,300
$2,739
All-Season Tire Performance Pkg. plus Seating Pkg. Base requires 6-speed automatic transmission. NA DI w/6-speed manual transmission.
Performance Luxury Pkg.
Base, Direct Injection
$2,875
$2,386
Luxury Level One Pkg. plus rear-obstacle-detection system, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel w/memory, heated/cooled front seats, split folding rear seat, remote engine start, universal garage door opener. Requires Performance Collection. Base requires 6-speed automatic transmission. NA DI w/6-speed manual transmission.
Powertrain
6-speed manual transmission
Direct Injection (credit)
$-1,300
$-1,079
6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
Base
$1,300
$1,079
All-wheel drive
Base
$3,200
$2,656
Direct Injection
$1,900
$1,577
Base includes 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability. NA w/6-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Uprated brakes
Base
$395
$328
Requires All-Season Tire Performance Pkg. or summer performance tires.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
Direct Injection
$3,145
$2,610
Includes traffic information, hard drive, digital-media player connection, upgraded Bose sound system. Requires Seating Pkg.
Audio hard drive
Base, Direct Injection
$1,000
$830
Includes digital-media player connection, upgraded Bose sound system.
Power sunroof
Base, Direct Injection
$1,450
$1,204
ordered w/Luxury Collection or Performance Collection
$900
$747
Wood interior trim
Base, Direct Injection
$495
$411
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
Base, Direct Injection
$150
$125
Includes shifter. Requires wood interior trim.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Engine-block heater
Base, Direct Injection
$100
$83
Special paint
Base, Direct Injection
$995
$826
Limited-use spare tire
Base, Direct Injection
$250
$208
Deletes std. tire-inflation kit.
Polished alloy wheels
Base
$750
$623
Requires All-Season Tire Performance Pkg.
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2008 Cadillac CTS Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Cadillac CTS 4-door sedan
Wheelbase, in. 113.4
Overall Length, in. 191.6
Overall Width, in. 72.5
Overall Height, in. 58.0
Curb Weight, lbs. 3861
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 13.6
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 18.0
Seating Capacity 5
Front Head Room, in. 38.8
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.4
Rear Head Room, in. 37.2
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 35.9
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc V6 dohc V6
Size, liters/cu. in. 3.6 /217 3.6 /217
Horsepower @ rpm. 263 @ 6200 304 @ 6700
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 253 @ 3100 273 @ 4000
Availability Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
   
6-speed manual 16/25 16/25
6-speed automatic 17/26 17/26
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
4WD Rollover 4
Front Impact, Driver 4
Front Impact, Passenger 5
Rollover Resistance 4
Side Impact, Driver 5
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 5/100,000 --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 6/unlimited --
Free roadside assistance 5/100,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
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: all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2008 Cadillac CTS
Trim Level:  Direct Injection
Arrival Date:  10/23/2007
Engine:  dohc V6
Bodystyle:  4-door sedan
Transmission:  6-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  No
Base Price:  $34,545
Price as Tested:  $43,720
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  4188
Mileage at End of Test:  4752
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  36.012 gals.
 

Major Options:  Performance Collection: 18 in. All Season Tire Performance Package (High Intensity Headlamps, Headlamp Washer, 18 in. Painted Aluminum Wheels, All Season Tires, Limited Slip Differential, Sport Suspension System, Performance Cooling System, Fog Lamps), Seating Package (Leather Surface Seats, Power Adjustable Front Seats, Memory Seat Adjuster, Heated Front Seats, Heated Windshield Washer Fluid), 18 in. Summer Tire Performance Package (Polished Aluminum Wheels, Summer Only Tires, Sport Suspension System, Antilock Brake System), AM/FM Stereo, CD/DVD Player, MP3 Format, Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround Sound 10 Speaker System, 40GB Hard Drive Device, Navigation System with XM Nav Traffic - 3 months included - Sapele Wood Trim, Compact Spare Tire)

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  18.22 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Chuck Giametta Compared to the Euro-suave BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 and Japan's overachieving Infiniti G sedan, the CTS is a muscled-up adolescent in a sharkskin suit. Yes, its DI V6 powertrain is world-class, the structure is rock-solid, and it's quiet and roomy enough. And yes, cars in this class are a lot about projecting an image. But that's not all they're about. Even if you don't find the CTS's styling too calculated and self-conscious, you may find a CTS like the $43,000 Direct Injection summer tire/sport suspension model we tested lacking that degree of polished steering and handling that rewards the demanding driver, no matter what image is being projected.

Damon Bell The redesigned CTS feels like a car that has something to prove. The emphatic overall design and almost obsessive attention to styling details is impressive... almost too much so, like the car might be trying a little too hard. CTS’s aggressive, angular ostentatiousness may be a turn-off for some conservative shoppers who are looking for less design gee-whizzery. Overall, though, the new CTS is a remarkable step up from the previous generation and a very serious contender in this class. I'd steer clear of the overly stiff Summer Tire Performance Package, though.

Jennifer Geiger CTS is not the most understated of premium midsize cars and says luxury in an in-your-face way. A classy, lavish interior coupled with bling-y exterior styling make this new CTS hard to miss.

Sikora Don CTS is the real deal. The Direct Injection engine is smooth and powerful, the automatic transmission is responsive, interior accommodations are first rate, and the car has what it takes to compete with the best in this class. Watch out for the FE3 sport suspension and summer-only performance tires though, they degrade ride quality on less than glass-smooth roads with little real world handling improvement.

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