Overview & Reviews

Blending all-American style with European-inspired handling, the Cadillac CTS has been a popular choice with luxury sedan consumers for more than a decade. Within that period, there have been three generations. Despite shortcomings in terms of interior design and quality, the first CTS is still a fair choice for a used luxury sedan. The second-generation CTS, which featured substantial improvements to its interior, is a much more appealing car. The most recent generation of the CTS has grown in both size and sophistication, and we feel it's the first CTS to truly be on equal footing with its European and Japanese competition.

Current Cadillac CTS
Debuting for 2014 and representing the model's third generation, the current Cadillac CTS sedan is larger and now competes more directly against midsize luxury sport sedans, leaving the compact sport sedan fight to its smaller ATS brother. The CTS coupe, wagon and CTS-V sedan carried over unchanged for this year. Improved in every way over its already respected predecessor, the latest CTS sedan has the looks, the power and the luxury required to go tire-to-tire against the world's best in this segment.

There are six main trim levels: Standard, Luxury, Performance, Premium, Vsport and Vsport Premium. Three engines are offered but trim level determines availability. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower starts things off, and it's matched to a six-speed automatic transmission and either standard rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive (AWD). Next up is a 3.6-liter V6 good for 321 hp -- it comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It's also available with AWD, though that version gets the six-speed auto. The Vsport comes with an exclusive turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 packing 420 hp, along with rear-wheel drive and the eight-speed automatic as the sole drivetrain setup.

Equipment on the CTS Standard trim includes keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen display and an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Upgrading to the CTS Luxury trim gets you xenon headlights, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats and added safety features. The CTS Performance is highlighted by its adaptive suspension, panoramic sunroof, head-up display and heated rear seats. The Premium trim is similar but adds adaptive cruise control and upgraded front seats and upholstery. Besides its engine, the Vsport is differentiated by its sport-tuned mechanical hardware.

The cabin of the CTS offers solid build quality and rich materials. Overall, there's a very luxurious vibe inside, and we think it's one of the most stylish designs you'll find in this segment. However, even though the latest CTS is larger than before, its interior space is essentially the same. As such, it's lacking a little for backseat and trunk space compared to its rivals. Another minor downside is the CUE ("Cadillac User Experience") infotainment system, which can be difficult to use and slow to respond.

We've only driven the high-performance CTS Vsport model thus far, so we can only comment on that version. As expected, acceleration is indeed impressive, as is the eight-speed automatic, which provides gearchanges that range from silky smooth to sports car rapid depending on the selected driving mode. Handling is sharp, composed and rewarding as well, providing the driver with an uncommon level of tactility.

Used Cadillac CTS Models
The second-generation Cadillac CTS sedan was produced from 2008 through 2013. Compared to the original CTS, it was notably more refined and powerful. In addition to the sedan, a coupe, a wagon and high-performance CTS-V variants (all reviewed separately) were also available. Overall body dimensions were similar to the first CTS, but wider-set wheels gave it a more powerful stance. The previous CTS's lackluster interior was remedied by a more attractive design, up-to-date electronics and the use of better materials.

Prior to the 2010 model year, the base engine was a 3.6-liter V6 with 258 hp. After that, the standard engine was a 3.0-liter V6 generating 270 hp. A more powerful 3.6-liter V6 was optional all along, and produced 304 hp until 2012, when output increased to 318 hp. That marked the last year that a six-speed manual transmission was available with the base engine. Subsequently, a six-speed automatic was the only transmission offered. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) being optional.

Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and satellite radio; much later versions even came with heated seats and a rearview camera at no extra cost. Options included keyless ignition and entry and a navigation system with digital music storage capability. Two sport suspension packages were also available and we'd recommend noting if a used CTS is so equipped. Handling will be improved as a result, but the trade-off is a rougher ride.

Overall, the upgraded interior and spirited powertrains pushed this CTS into top-tier status for a luxury sport sedan. Highlights include a roomy cabin, an elegant interior design and capable handling. Besides the potentially rough ride, downsides included poor rearward visibility and for some drivers, an awkward driving position.

Notable changes made throughout this generation's run included, for 2010 only, the Eco Lux Collection option. Available only on the base 3.0-liter V6, it included tweaked aerodynamics and special tires that allowed 30 mpg on the highway -- a gain of 3 mpg. There was also a slight styling tweak for 2012, but otherwise changes were minimal.

The first-generation Cadillac CTS was sold from the 2003-'07 model years. When it debuted, the CTS was one of Cadillac's first cars to fully emphasize the brand's modern, angular styling themes. It was also a significant departure from traditional modern Cadillacs because of its rear-wheel drive, available manual transmission, stiff body structure and sport-oriented handling dynamics.

The car's larger-than-average exterior dimensions translated to a roomier cabin that could accommodate five adults. A fair number of features came standard, including antilock brakes and side curtain airbags. Upscale features were typically bundled as part of optional packages. Common options included a premium Bose audio system, a DVD-based navigation system, xenon headlights and a sunroof. A Sport package provided a sport-tuned suspension, bigger wheels and tires, and stability control.

In its first year, the Cadillac CTS came only with a 3.2-liter V6 good for 220 hp. This was joined in 2004 by a more desirable 255-hp 3.6-liter V6. At the time, the base V6 was available with a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. The larger V6 came with the automatic only. In 2005, however, the 3.2-liter engine was dropped in favor of a smaller, 210-hp 2.8-liter engine. Cadillac also upgraded the manual transmission to a six-speed unit and made it available for the 3.6-liter V6 as well.

User Reviews:

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  Not a Real Standout. - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By Ron - September 1 - 4:46 pm

  Ive had mine for 5 months with 5,000 miles on it. I like the car generally, for the reasons I purchased it - stand out design, performance. However, I think its a pretty average GM car in most ways. It lacks the "luxury" amenities you would find in other cars of this price range. For example, you get the same generic key fob as a Chevy Astro with no standard alarm or window roll down feature. And no locking fuel door? Are you kidding me? And while the performance is good, its nothing to write home about. Assembly is not that good either. Rear bumper cover feels loose, and the passenger doors have to be slammed to be shut properly. While these arent critical issues, this car can improve.

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  My New Car Experience - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By Ken - August 13 - 7:30 pm

  I have not gotten the performance or gas milage that I understood that I would get. I dont know what is wrong with my car but it is not the same car that is discribed in these reviews. It just does not measure up to other cars that I have owned.

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  most impressive - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By kessler - July 22 - 10:00 am

  Love the car. Impressive, ahead of its time. I get compliments averywhere I go, from people of all ages, Im 43 years old, and feel 25yrs old while Im driving this supper driving experience. I only wish I could get an automatic V8.

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  The Worst Mistake I Ever Made - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Tristine M Currier - July 13 - 9:54 am

  I have owned this car 4 months. The following is a list of problems. (keep in mind that I bought it from the Cadillac dealer in my town). *Indicates that I have brought it in multiple times for the same issue. -Passenger side electrical not working. -Cracked valve in engine (2.5 week repair) *Power steering rod needed to be replaced. *Cruise control shuts off. *Stability system constantly engages. *Sunroof opens, closes, adjusts, on own. *Trunk pops open on own. *Knocking noise in front end. *Breaks sometimes dont work when traveling at high speeds. -Odometer reads that I have driven 10k miles in the 3 months that Ive been driving. Absolutley wrong!

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  Great Design Sub-Standard Paint Job - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By JERRY - July 3 - 4:47 pm

  I love this car. It has a unique design and distinctive performance. It is super! Now for the cynical part of me: My unit has the "Diamond White" optional exterior paint, which cost $995 retail $860 GM Employee price. As you know, the factory robotic spray paint booth does its job flawlessly. From 10 feet away, the car is very nice and pretty. From 2 feet away, the exterior white paint is rippled (like waves on a lake) and the final clear coat paint is noticeably dimpled. Not a world-class effort, IMO. I did not appreciate paying extra for a sub-standard simple white application. A much smoother paint job could have been programmed into the robots.

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  Had my 05 CTS for 3 months now Great! - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By zman - May 29 - 11:58 am

  I bought my 05 CTS about 3 months ago. I certainly was impressed with the performance when I test drove it, but now that Im living with the car on a day to day level, it had exceeded my expectations. Its not only a good daily driver, but is a great weekender sports sedan for those winding, mountain roads.

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  the not over saturated lux. sport sedan - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By tara - May 24 - 1:58 am

  I love this car, first off I stand out from all the other cars in its class because there is just not as many of them out there. The car really turns heads. The performance is all there along with a great feel and smooth ride (without the boat like feel of the Cadillac of the past).

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  Image & Reality - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By DeAnna - May 19 - 5:56 pm

  I havent owned my Cadillac for a long period but the time I have, it has been amazing. Its quiet luxury with a kick. Its enjoyable to ride without out all the city noise. A true joy ride!

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  WOW! Not your Daddys Caddy - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Kurt Hundertmark - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Just got the Luxury/Sport, and yeah, I got the orange one. Turns heads (actually snaps necks) everywhere I go. Car is incredibly solid. Sticks like velcro with very little roll. Steering is ultra-responsive. The sport-shift mode is a hoot - really winds out the V- 6. This car loves to be pushed. Cant figure the single, unadorned exhaust pipe. With all that styling, how did they miss putting in duals with styled tips? Interior is comfortable - nice but not plush. Has lots of "gee-whiz" features that Ill never use. The radio display is a little overwhelming, and Id rather see gauges instead of a clock. Bose 6-speaker stereo is very good.

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  Good to go - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By andy matt - March 18 - 2:52 pm

  The 2005 Cadillac CTS is pleasing for the driver who has a long commute, but when out on the open road likes to have a comfortable ride with acceptable performance. It has lots of room in the trunk. Its front seats are comfortable and have enough adjustments. I dont know about back seats, I dont use them. Its steering is taut, brake feel is good and handling is better than the average mid size sedan. The engine response is peppy and the transmission is one of the smoothest Ive driven. The drive by wire response sometimes feels a little wierd but feeds in what you want most of the time. This is a great car, but there already has been a recall to reset the ECM apparently on all 2004 and many 2005 models.