The 2011 Cadillac CTS is not a global standard but it is still GM's standard car. The car received a redesign in 2008 so that it would continue to prove aesthetically pleasing and appealing. The CTS hosts an aggressive stance, impeccable chassis, and exceptional powertrain thereby making the vehicle rival European models.
For 2011, CTS has some minor refreshments; the sedan is offered in a wagon configuration. The CTS Sport Wagon is Euro-like, it offers ample cargo space, and it has an athletic appearance. In 2011, Cadillac intends on offering a V-Series, high-performing configuration of the coupe and wagon.
The ingress and egress of the rear seating is compromised in the CTS because of the curvilinear roofline, and the cabin lacks in terms of spaciousness. Loaded with niceties, the CTS host a pop-up navigation screen, but the car is subpar in fuel-efficiency because the body is heavy. There is a power gap that is almost as big as the CTS's motor output, and the carmaker does not offer a choice between the supercharged, high-performing V-8 motor and the V-6 engine.
The Range
Body styles: Sedan, coupe, wagon
Engines: 3.0-liter V-6, 3.6-liter V-6
Transmissions: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic
Models: Base, Luxury, Performance, Premium
What's New
The CTS' optional 3.6-liter V-6 gets 14 extra horsepower and loses 20 lb., adds a new grille, and gets a new Touring package. For 3.6-liter models, this means the CTS-V's Recaro seats and 19-inch wheels, for 3.0-liter models, satin inserts in the seats and 18-inch wheels. Both get Sapele wood trim and a dark-finish grille. Bluetooth becomes standard.
Exterior
The Cadillac CTS family share many common attributes and design cues, while providing 3 distinct body styles to taste. The CTS coupe and CTS sedan share the same wheelbase, while the Coupe is a couple inches shorter and lower than its four-door sibling. The CTS wagon offers an elongated version of the sedan, and has a sporty European character. While the three differ in body style, a prominent grille, large wheels, vertical taillights, and an aggressive and sporty demeanor characterize all three. A panoramic sunroof, xenon headlights and taillights are optional on some models.
Interior
While cabin space, seating and cargo all vary within the CTS family, there are a few common denominators. High-quality soft-touch materials are evident throughout, and fit and finish are competitive with its European rivals. Wood and metal finish accents give the cabin a lavish feel. The seats are available heated and cooled, although they're surprisingly hard. Outward visibility is poor in the coupe, a casualty of the sporty styling. Cargo room is on the low end for the coupe and sedan, while the wagon fares better. A variety of interior colors and trims are available.
Performance & Handling
The CTS family boasts responsive steering and excellent cornering. The 3.6-liter engine packs veritable punch with 318 hp, while the 3.0-liter engine will suffice for those less concerned with acceleration and power. The CTS offers sporty driving dynamics that may come into contrast with people who more often associate Cadillac with regal land yachts. The firm ride quality, while a departure from smooth sailing Cadillac's of the past, still offers a nice get-about-town drive.
Safety
Driver and passenger front and side airbags are standard on the CTS, along with front and rear head curtain bags and rear side airbags. OnStar Automatic Crash Response is also standard. Electronic safety devices include standard Traction Control and Stability Control.
EPA Fuel Economy
3.0-liter V-6: 16-18 mpg city/ 26-27 mpg highway
3.6-liter V-6: 18 mpg city/ 26-27 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Luxurious interior
- Supple ride
- Sporty handling
- Pop-up nav screen
- Great looks
You Won't Like
- Rear passenger space
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Hard seats
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Heavy for the class
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Average fuel economy
Sum Up
America's best luxury car
If You Like This Vehicle
- BMW 335i
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Infiniti G37
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Audi A4 Avant (for CTS wagon)
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Acura TSX (for CTS wagon)