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:

• 

  All Bark, Dont get BITTEN - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By sosorry - December 4 - 2:00 am

  This is a feeble attempt by GM to build a car to compete with European autos. They fail in every category. The car is all sizzle and no meat! The over-all quality is typical of all domestic cars. It is filled with plastic and poorly fitted components that rattle, squeak and creek after the first month. It is surely one of the worst cars I have ever owned. GM has has no interest in correcting the problems I have had with my CTS. I made an impulse purchase, boy am I sorry!!! I never thought I would say give my Catera back!

• 

  Cadillacs first true sports sedan - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By cigar_surfer - November 30 - 10:00 am

  Cadillac did their homework and nailed the essential qualities required to compete in this class, then went the extra mile and strode into uncharted territory of bold yet elegant styling. In keeping with the sport sedan credo, I opted for a 5 speed stick and lux sport. The car drives beautifully and handles like its crazy glued to the road. Youll feel each undulation of pavement, but thats the way it should be. If you want to float down the road, try a DeVille. The ride is not harsh, and is very quiet. Engine is smooth, quiet and responsive. I feel the interior evokes just the right blend of luxury, ultra modern styling, and purposefull utility.

• 

  CTS - the Import Fighter - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By CTS the Drivers Car - November 28 - 4:10 am

  The 2005 Cadillac CTS is just great all around. I love the design on the exterior, it is just stunning. The interior is just as great, I find it to be very comfortable, and luxurious. The performance is even better, you really feel the accelration of the V6 rated at 255 hp. The control of the vehicle is very good as well, I really feel in control when driving. It has a very solid, strong feel to it, and it feels great on the road. It has a quiet cabin, with very good shocks.

• 

  Cadi CTS Performs - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Darlene Cochran - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Ive only owned foreign cars before this one, and Im very pleased. So pleased, that I believe Im converted and will stay with the Cadillac line. I added more wood trim to the interior which greatly enhanced the look of class.

• 

  Just to cool - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Patrick k - November 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with every option.Love the handling with the luxury sport package and am very impressed with the nav system. The Car turns everbodys heads regardless of age, which can be uncomfortable while trying to maintain cool.After owning much higher horse power rides I am suprised that the quickness and speed of this car is not disappointing but will probably purchase the 2004 V series with the 400 hp V8 just because. The interior is hard and creaks alot from heat expantion and cooling but we always are using the excellent Bose sound system so who cares. After 30000 I have had no problems. This car is just to cool. I would recommend it to anyone.

• 

  Unhappy - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By Betty L Peveler - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle has been in for repairs 9 times within 17 months. Multiple problems with the cooling system, electronic fuel system, engine mount problems, air- bag sensor failure and structural failure of the thermostat housing.

• 

  I like the 04 - 2004 Cadillac CTS
  By T. Salyer - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Mine is Smoke Gray with dark tinited windows. Looks great. Very very quick from 0-60. Steering is wonderful and seems without effort. Handeling is tight and responsive. Sound system is clear and easy to specialize. Enough space for 4 adults to ride in solid comfort.

• 

  EXPERIENCE - 2003 Cadillac CTS
  By NORSAN - October 30 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE ALWAYS DRIVEN CADDYS, BUT I AM VERY, VERY HAPPY WITH THE STYLE AND PERFORMANCE OF THIS VEHICLE

• 

  My 2008 CTS - 2008 Cadillac CTS
  By LaBorde - October 28 - 10:46 am

  Replaced my 2005 STS with the CTS. CTS is more comfortable, more "gadgets", more fun to drive, turns more heads than my STS ever did.

• 

  Love this Caddy! - 2005 Cadillac CTS
  By Pastor D - October 26 - 2:53 pm

  The CTS is my fifth car and I am proud to say I am once again a Caddy owner. This car is beautiful, priced just right, and exciting to drive! While searching for the perfect new car, I drove the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and was utterly dissappointed! I also test drove the Acura TSX and had similar sentiments. Nothing impressed me the way the CTS did. I highly recommend this car to all!