2009 Cadillac CTS-V: Road Test
2009 Cadillac CTS-V ▼
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- MSRP: $58,575 -
- Invoice: $54,475 -
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Our road test for the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V help you decide if a 2009 Cadillac CTS-V is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 7.2 |
CTS-V accelerates ferociously--GM claims 0-60 in 3.9 seconds with either manual or automatic transmission, which feels about right to us. The manual shifter works smoothly, with a precise but meaty feel. Alert automatic provides crisp, smooth shifts. It includes a sport mode for sharper shifts, and may also be shifted manually via the console shifter or steering-wheel buttons.
FUEL ECONOMY
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.7 |
No opportunity to measure. Cadillac recommends premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6.4 |
Ride is never harsh, but always taut, and can grow jittery over rough pavement. There is a mild difference in bump absorption in the Magnetic Ride Control's "Tour" and "Sport" modes.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7.2 |
CTS-V has exceptionally responsive steering, tenacious grip in turns, and tremendously powerful brakes. It corners with virtually no lean, but slightly trails top European rivals in overall composure.
QUIETNESS
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 7 |
Wind noise is well muted, but engine and tire noise are relatively pronounced. The V8 emits a baritone burble in cruising and a growl accompanied by moderate supercharger whine in fast acceleration.
CONTROLS
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.3 |
Major gauges are large and easy to read. Some testers feel CTS puts form over function when it comes to the use of major controls, and 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 screen is large and legible, and quickly powers up or down.
DETAILS
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.5 |
Luxury-grade trim rivals the best in this highly competitive class. CTS-V's unique trim pieces and available suede-like upholstery inserts impart a racy ambiance.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.3 |
Standard sport seats are comfortable yet supportive in fast cornering. The optional Recaro-brand seats have handy power-adjustable bolsters to dial in ideal comfort/support ratio. Standard tilt and telescopic wheel helps tailor good driving position.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 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
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Usefulness of the boxy trunk is compromised by a small opening. Interior storage includes an average-sized center console and glovebox.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 6.5 |
The CTS-V is an extreme high-performance vehicle that delivers blistering acceleration and near-world-class handling while retaining most of the sophisticated flavor of its mainstream sibling. However, its formidable capabilities, taut ride, and hefty sticker price make it for dedicated enthusiast drivers only.
Total Score
| CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 66 | 66 | 69.2 |
Total Score: 66
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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