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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  CTS lives at the shop! - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By Zldjan - March 27 - 4:21 pm

  This car has been nothing but problems from the day I received it. It has had problems with its electrical system, transmission, clutch, alignment, differential, driveshaft, tires, interior trim, you name it. I have had to make multiple trips to the dealer to get the same problem fixed. Me and the rental guy at Enterprise car rental are now on a first name basis At this point I have gotten GM customer service involved and I am hoping they come through and do the right thing. This is my first GM and so far I’m not so impressed with the quality, but the car is sexy and it has helped me meet some wonderful people in the towing and car rental industries.

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  Love this car!!! - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By Jean Stanford - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I have the luxury sport package and its everything I wanted. Its sporty and fun, yet roomy enough for passengers and luggage. It has power and style. I didnt expect to like it this much, as I previously had a more expensive luxury sport import. However, this car is a dream and I am very glad I purchased it.

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  The real deal - 2006 Cadillac CTS
  By Dan - March 17 - 5:18 pm

  Recently drove my CTS 3.6 from Monterey to Big Sur and back on the Pacific Coast Highway. I drove at the limit up and down the hills and hairpin curves never using the brakes - just the sport shift! It was as if the car was on rails! I own a Mercedes and have owned a VW and a BMW. It handles just as well these do - but is more comfortable. It glides in and out of traffic with terrifc acceleration and with smooth, effortless shifting. GM doesnt know how good a car they have. Interior could be a little sexier.

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  CTS Howls and Whines - 2006 Cadillac CTS
  By Len Turi - March 17 - 9:30 am

  My CTS howls and whines at all speeds and RPMs. Cadillac states that this is 100% within its standards and is characteristic of the vehicle. This does not give me peace of mind that the car is operating safely.

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  GM gets it right - 2006 Cadillac CTS
  By Mike L. - March 16 - 6:39 am

  Ive have nothing but praise for this mid-size sedan. It handles flawlessly, its extremely comfortable, and has all the options anyone can possibly want. The 2.8L engine is as fast, if not quicker off the line than my 2003 Bonneville. GM has a winner.

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  What a Pretty Car - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By tbs - March 15 - 2:00 am

  No car I have ever driven has received so much attention as my CTS. I have been stopped at least twice a week since I got the car with people providing favorable feedback. If you dont want attention, dont drive this car. It is extremely confortable for the long haul and has the acceleration, handling, and braking to mix it up in traffic. Glad I got it.

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  Do Not Buy, Definitely Dont Lease - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By sawuscoming - March 14 - 10:29 am

  Obviously, most positive reviews are looks and fun. It does look good, but is only fun in optimal driving conditions. If sliding (from a stop at slow acceleration) on slightly wet pavement is is fun, its fun. Ive driven in Illinois winters for sixteen years this is the only car Ive ever slid off the road in. Interior looks good for awhile, but black finish on control buttons has chipped off. Interior lights dim off and on, and the cruise control has been disengaging--it only has 18,000 miles on the car. To this date, it has had three recalls. Dont waste money on a tired name when there are car quality companies producing luxury vehicles built with the driver in mind.

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  Why a CTS over a Euro or an Asian Car? - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By kaneb - March 13 - 2:00 am

  I test drove many cars, read consumer reports and pushed Internet fleet sales managers to madness for their lowest price for over a year. I took my time to find the car that fits my lifestyle (you dont need an SUV). My friends have BMW 3 Series, Mercedes 240 and Lexus IS/GS so I got a free test drive from them. I spun the Acura Sports and Nissan Altima as well as a few salesman around the block at local dealerships.

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  Outstanding Automobile - 2006 Cadillac CTS
  By WM - March 9 - 9:36 pm

  The CTS has is very comfortable. The ride is smooth and easy to handle. I believe that is was a worthwhile purchase. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for comfort, style and and luxury in a car.

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  CTS review - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By ziskie - February 27 - 9:45 am

  My CTS handling has been exceptional. It glides down the highway and has gotten lots of "wows" on ride quality from friends who have been in it. The soundproofing and speaker system are very good. I like the style too - it sticks out in the crowd without being ostentatious. There are lots of BMWs and Mercedes where I live, but my Caddy looks better and gets more notice.