2012 Cadillac CTS Coupe Base Trim Overview

For understated elegance and plush appointments, few automobiles approach the 2012 Cadillac CTS Coupe Base. This midsize 5-passenger luxury 2-door offers a stunning design, V6 performance and all the comforts GM’s showcase label includes. Boasting 18-inch alloy wheels and heated, power-adjustable mirrors outside, and leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a leather steering wheel and simulated carbon-fiber accents inside, this Caddy just oozes plush. Standard power and convenience amenities include power windows and remote power door locks with keyless entry and ignition, as well as cruise control, telescoping tilt-wheel steering and rear parking sensors. Comfort goodies include dual-zone climate control with Sun Sensor auto climate control and lighting, while entertainment is presented by a single-CD player and 8 Bose premium speakers, as well as satellite radio and auxiliary MP3 audio input. Finally, OnStar Directions and Connections service with Bluetooth interface also comes standard in this plush coupe, while options include only a rear spoiler and wheel locks. Alas, a smallish 10.5-cubic-foot trunk may necessitate a bit of foresight in vacation packing.

GM’s touted direct-injected (DI) 3.6-liter V6 powerplant and shiftable 6-speed automatic transmission form the sole drivetrain offered with the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 2012 CTS Coupe Base. This combo puts out 318 hp (an extra 14 hp over 2011’s version) and 275 lb-ft of torque, with variable valve timing allowing 18 mpg city/27 highway.

Safety-wise, look for 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags, front side-mounted airbags and active front headrests in this snazzy entry-level 2-door. All this is complemented by standard daytime running lights, a post-collision safety system and OnStar Emergency Service, Airbag Deployment Notification and Stolen Vehicle Assistance.