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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  Cream of the crop - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By ATG - November 17 - 7:15 am

  Wonderful driving experience. I particularly enjoy the acceleration and responsiveness of the direct injection. Transmission is flawless. Suspension is smooth and handles sharp turns remarkably well. Michelin 235/18" wheels hug the road and literally the car feels like it can drive itself. Interior materials and finish are superior to other vehicles in similar price range exterior is bold and aggressive-looking. Reliability has been very good with 11,000 miles. 24mpg on the highway regular gasoline. Im very pleased with my selection.

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  High accolades - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By Alan - November 16 - 8:48 pm

  Former 05 Lexus owner and Im very, very pleased with the CTS. Researched the CTS and decided to test-drive after reading favorable reviews. The ride is sporty and comfortable, suspension is very responsive, transmission is smooth and accelleration is exhilirating from the DI. Fit and finish on par with my prior Lexus. A real head-turner among adults and kids alike.

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  At last! - 2009 Cadillac CTS
  By gunorthopod - November 16 - 6:24 pm

  At last, a car that meets and exceeds all my expectations. Previous car was a 2007 Mercedes CLS 550. Thirty nine days in the shop the first 14 months. Problems with faulty navigation, multiple creaks, rattles, and vibrations, AC blower motor defective, and catastrophic power failure twice. Transmission needed to be replaced.I engineered a lemon law buyback fortunately. I looked at Lexus and BMW but was enthralled by the CTS. What a car! Perfect fit and finish with more advanced electronics than MB. Everything works as described. More than adequate power with superlative handling and acceleration. The only thing I gave up was a one half second 0 to 60 time. GM and Cadillac have produced a world class car.

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  Great Driving Car - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Don Parzanese - November 14 - 2:00 am

  This is my first new cadillac purchased. I debated to whether purchase the DeVille or the CTS. The CTS had my eye though. After a test drive, I was convinced. I am extremely pleased with my purchase. A luxury car with a true sports feel.

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  Great Car! - 2009 Cadillac CTS
  By Edward - November 10 - 1:21 pm

  I purchased the 09 CTS to replace my 07 Infiniti. Prior to that I drove an 06 Infiniti and 03 BMW 5 series. The CTS is every bit as good and has better styling & ride. The performance and technology matches & surpasses my previous cars and the price was right. Cadillac has built a first class car that can compete with anyone.

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  Competing with the Germans! - 2009 Cadillac CTS
  By MK - November 9 - 11:51 am

  I have owned many many cars, mostly German and some Japanese luxury brands, this CTS is my first US luxury sedan in 25 years! It certainly competes well with all those brands, but with all the incentives and employee pricing, value ratio was the best of them all. In fact, I traded in my 2008 BMW 335i twin-turbo coupe shortly after for another car!

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  Gas Guzzler - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By Poor Gas Mileage - October 29 - 2:25 pm

  This vehicle guzzles gas worse than an SUV. Dont be fooled. It doesnt get anywhere near the 18 city/26 highway. Im currently getting around 16 MPG in mostly highway driving. The vehicle has an 18 gallon tank that will only take you around 230 miles. Dont buy or lease this car if you are concerned about the environment or your own vehicle ownership costs!

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  King Of The Road - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By Scottiro - October 27 - 11:22 am

  After shopping used CTSs for about 1 year- I finally purchased a Pearl 04 CTS (w/black leather). The reviews have been great on this vehicle and the craftsmanship is extraordinary. I bought my Caddy with 60K on it but paid about 4K under blue book. So far, so good. I previously drove a Jeep Wrangler so this is an entirely different experience.

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  2008 CTS DI - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By Jim G - October 26 - 10:46 pm

  Great vehicle to drive. A bit heavy but it feels good once it gets rolling... AWD takes a bit of performance away. I swear my 2007 (non-DI is quicker and faster) But a truly great car. Love the entire redesign.

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  CTS 09 FOR $39,000 Is Outstanding! - 2009 Cadillac CTS
  By Darren Cimino - October 25 - 8:26 pm

  Folks, GM/Cadillac is offering incredible cash back pricing on the CTS. I was able to load up fully and remain under 40 Grand. Cannot believe BMW or Mercedes is not having a heart attack over this American car. Absolutely love this vehicle running on regular gasoline!