2010 Cadillac CTS: Road Test
2010 Cadillac CTS ▼
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- MSRP: $36,730 - $60,720
- Invoice: $34,526 - $56,470
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Our road test for the 2010 Cadillac CTS includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Cadillac CTS from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Cadillac CTS, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Cadillac CTS help you decide if a 2010 Cadillac CTS is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 10 | 10 | 7.4 |
With automatic transmission, the 3.6-liter V6 engine has good low-speed punch and plenty of passing power. The automatic transmission provides seamless and timely shifts. No manual-transmission V6 CTS models have been made available for testing. CTS-V accelerates ferociously--GM claims 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds with either manual or automatic transmission, which feels about right to us. Manual CTS-V's shifter works smoothly, with a precise but meaty feel. CTS-V's 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. No wagons or 3.0-liter models have been made available for Consumer Guide evaluation.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 3 | 3 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a sedan with the 3.6 V6 and automatic averaged 22.2 mpg. A CTS-V with the automatic averaged 16.7 mpg. V6 CTS models use regular-grade gas. Cadillac recommends premium for the CTS-V.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 4 | 4 | 6.5 |
CTS with the available sport suspension has a reassuring, solid feel, with a compliant ride and excellent bump absorption. Most road imperfections are more heard than actually felt. No CTS models equipped without the sport or performance suspension have been made available for testing. CTS-V 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
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 9 | 9 | 7.2 |
With the standard suspension, CTS approaches, but can't quite reach, the high standards set by the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G37. Steering feel is precise, and lean in corners is well checked, though CTS doesn't feel quite as agile in quick transitions as its rivals. Brake feel and performance are impressive on all models. CTS-V has super-sharp moves all-around, but slightly trails top European rivals in overall composure.
QUIETNESS
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 5 | 5 | 7.2 |
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 engine is notably polished, even when pushed. Engine and tire noise are more pronounced in the CTS-V. Its V8 emits a baritone burble in cruising and a growl accompanied by moderate supercharger whine in fast acceleration.
CONTROLS
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.5 |
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, 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, legible, and quickly powers up or down.
DETAILS
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
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 racier ambiance.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
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. CTS-V's sport seats have more-pronounced bolstering with no major comfort penalty. CTS-V's optional Recaro-brand seats have handy power-adjustable bolsters to tailor ideal comfort and support ratio.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
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
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 4 | 4 | 6.6 |
Cadillac's smallest sedan is a worthy alternative to cars from BMW, Jaguar, and Infiniti. CTS shines for its refinement and performance. Competitive pricing is icing on the cake for this premium midsize sedan. The enthusiast-oriented CTS-V offers blistering acceleration and near-world-class handling, but at a hefty price premium.
Total Score
| 3.6 sedan, automatic | CTS-V, manual | CTS-V, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | 66 | 66 | 70.3 |
Total Score: 69
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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