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:

• 

  Love my car - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By best car ever - May 23 - 12:46 pm

  Test drove Lexus gs350, BMW335, Audi A6 then by chance looked at a CTS. We have had three Volvos in the last ten years and have been satisfied with all of them. But when I drove the 2008 CTS i was amazed with the drive and looks and feel of the car. I love to sit and play with all the interior features. I find myself asking my wife if she needs something from the store.

• 

  THANKYOU Cadillac!!! - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By firemedic24 - May 19 - 10:00 am

  Unbelievable - that about sums up the CTS. I test drove hoards of vehicles, and even though the CTS may not be the top dog yet, Cadillac defintely did their homework!!! I love absolutely everything about the car. It may only have "220 HP", but with the combination of the Lux Sport package and its handling capabilities, I didnt even notice what car reviews are calling ashortfall in the Engine!

• 

  Great Buy - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By Mike Neoh - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Just got a 05 black on black CTS equipped w/ auto. trans, sport & luxury pkg, moonroof, a $2,000 V-look pkg( incl V-grille, rear spoiler, dual exhaust chrome & gold emblems ), $1,500 chrome wheels w/ cadillac logo that comes w/ 4 years warranty, int. walnut wood dressing and tinted windows all for less than $38,500 (includes freight, before tax & title ). After the $1,500 conquest rebates and the dealer discount, I figure I saved a good 5-6 grand off MSRP. The look itself is worth every pennies.

• 

  CTS: American Entry-Lux Leader - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By dmaze1325 - May 15 - 2:00 am

  I looked at other class leaders in the entry-level lux groups and went with the CTS- I have not been disappointed. I have owned Audi and the CTS is a refreshing change. Cadillac has a truely fine entry-lux car with the CTS. If you are looking at BMW, Audi, Saab, Lincoln LS or Lexus-give the CTS a test drive, you will be pleasantly surprised! The CTS handling/drive is very impressive- feels like a sport sedan should.

• 

  THE BEST - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By RATZO - May 12 - 2:00 am

  THE CST IS LIKE FLYING AN F-16 FIGHTER. THIS CAR DOES EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT WHEN YOU WANT IT TO. GM HAS TO GO A LONG WAY TO TO TOP THIS CAR.

• 

  Eyecatching Fun - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Aggie Will - May 12 - 2:00 am

  In our mid 40s carpooling is over - were targeting a fun car for our downsized" mode. After testing the midsized Lincoln, Lexus, BMW 500 series and Avalon, my wife wanted to test the "sassy" new CTS. We drove the base as well as fully loaded Luxury Sport edition. Within 45 minutes of arriving at the dealership, she had chosen the LS edition. It is a head turner and we are really happy with the decision to go with the CTS. Full of power, great accessories, a real rush to drive. Christmas shopping all done!

• 

  Best car ever - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By George Trudeau - May 8 - 2:00 am

  I have now 2590 miles on this car and so far it is the best car I have ever owned. I love the styling and the comfort. I have the red line paint and get complements all the time about the quality of the paint (very nice) As of this date I have not been back to the dealers with any problems.

• 

  Love this car - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By Lenbro - May 5 - 4:36 pm

  The car is sharp looking and fun to drive. Got mine in Raven black with black interior with polished chrome wheels. Its a real head turner. It rides so well Im finding places to go just so I can drive it. Steering is tight a just the right amout of road feel without being too harsh. Traded my 2005 Audi A6 which I liked but got too frustrated with Audi because they Claimed the noises in my car from the heating vents were "characteristic" of the car and there was nothing they would do about it. If your looking for a "sorts" sedan, check out the CTS, you wont be dissappointed.

• 

  great car - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By angchmp - May 5 - 2:00 am

  love this car. it is fun to drive .it has great pick up ,an awesome bose stereo system. handles like a dream.only con for me is that the interior should be dressed up a little more on the base model. come on this is a CADDY!!!

• 

  Just one Great Car Made in America - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By Ralph Torres - May 4 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the most exciting automobiles that I have ever had the pleasure of owning.Ive had a few minor problems,one with the cumputer system and a power window connector loose. This car handles very well a all speeds and I just came up from Fla. to Mass and at an average speed of 75/80 mph I was getting 27.1 mph with the A/C on.I do find the controls confusing as some people have said. I dont care which car you get into today thare all scarey when you look at the electronics.