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The 2006 Cadillac CTS is available with two engines: a 210-horsepower, variable valve timing 2.8-liter V6 ($30,515) and a 255-horsepower 3.8-liter VVT V6 ($33,160). Both are available with a five-speed automatic transmission ($1,200) or a six-speed manual.
Standard equipment includes leather-trimmed upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, power driver's seat, driver information center, a seven-speaker sound system, 16-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires and a one-year subscription to the OnStar road assistance service.
Options include the popular Luxury Package ($2,100), which includes heated front seats with power operation for the passenger, memory presets for two drivers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, HomeLink universal garage door transmitter, alarm system, and a wood-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob.
The Sport Performance Package ($2,285), which has been realigned for 2006, adds a sport-tuned suspension tuning, high-performance brake pads, 18-inch alloy wheels with V-rated tires, load-leveling rear suspension, speed-sensitive power steering and StabiliTrak electronic stability control. The package also includes xenon high-intensity discharge headlights. A new Sport Appearance Package includes all the performance gear in Performance Package and lots of appearance tweaks: unique 18-inch wheels, restyled rocker moldings, dual exhaust tips, wire mesh grille work and a rear spoiler. In short, it's the look of the crazy-fast CTS-V for less money.
The DVD Navigation System ($2,995) includes XM Satellite Radio with a three-month subscription and a Bose stereo upgrade with six-CD changer and eight speakers, plus the new XM Nav Traffic system, which delivers real-time traffic flow information straight to the nav screen. Popular stand-alone options include a power glass sunroof with one-touch operation ($1,200), the Bose stereo and CD changer ($1,000), and a split-folding rear seat ($400).
The limited-production CTS-V ($50,675) comes stuffed with the 5.7-liter LS6 V8 engine developed for the Chevrolet Corvette, generating 400 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque. This monster engine comes mated to a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox (sorry, no automatic option here). The package includes big Brembo brakes and other high-performance tweaks.
Safety features on all CTS models include active features such as traction control and anti-lock brakes (ABS) with brake proportioning, which balances the braking front and rear. There are eight airbags: front, side-impact airbags for front and rear passengers, and curtain-style head protections airbags on each side. In short, the CTS comes with the full complement of safety features expected in a modern luxury car.
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