2009 Cadillac CTS

Behind the big mesh grille and mesh air dam lays a supercharged, 6.2-liter, V-8 engine with an aluminum block and heads that produces 556 hp at 6100 rpm and 551 lb-ft of torque at 3800 rpm. The 2009 Cadillc CTS-V engine, known as the LSA within GM, is mated either to a Tremec six-speed manual transmission or to a Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic. Suspension is, of course, all-independent, and this is the first V-series Cadillac other than the XLR-V roadster to employ Magnetic Ride Control, which uses electromagnetically controlled dampers to maximize both ride comfort and handling stability.

The 2009 Cadillc CTS-V cabin manages to look both purposeful and classy.

Like the previous CTS-V, the heart of the new car is its supercharged, OHV V-8.

Whereas the previous Cadillac CTS-V was a capable but crude hot rod, the new one feels as if it has jumped forward two generations, not only effectively addressing the old car's shortcomings but pouring on more performance as well. This car offers vastly greater mechanical refinement and interior quality, better styling, and oh-my-god performance. Certainly, it's the best Cadillac in modern times. And it sits on par with German competitors that cost thousands more.

To detail our findings, the 2009 Cadillc CTS-V is fab on the highway, fab on the track. And did we mention it is also the fastest production Cadillac ever, running on to a maximum speed of 191 mph (175 mph if you opt for the six-speed automatic over the Tremec six-speed manual)?

Forced induction lends a brutal, world-class turn of speed, helping thrust the 2009 Cadillc CTS-V to a 12-second, 116-plus-mph quarter mile, per our tests.

All 2009 Cadillc CTS models equipped with the six-speed automatic and the Summer Performance package receive a welcome addition: steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the lack of which was one of our small complaints about the 2008 model.

Powertrain choices remain the same for 2009 Cadillac CTS models, with the entry-level CTS powered by a 3.6L V-6 with 263 hp on tap. For a couple thousand dollars more -- and only a 1-mpg penalty -- customers can upgrade to GM's much-heralded direct-injection 3.6L V-6 making 304 hp.

The 2008 Cadillac CTS boasts major changes to the engines and chassis that upgrade performance. The CTS offers a choice of two V6 engines and a choice of either a newly designed six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, making it the only American luxury car still available with a manual. The Cadillac CTS comes with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The 2008 Cadillac CTS is a responsive sports sedan with excellent handling and high-speed stability yet it's smooth and quiet when cruising.