Cadillac's smallest luxury sedan returns unchanged after a significant overhaul in 2008. Retaining its new angular front end and oversize grille, the 2009 Cadillac CTS does welcome one new arrival this year - a revamped, more powerful CTS-V, the muscle-car version of the sedate sedan.
The plain old CTS comes with one of two engines, each offered on either a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive platform. The standard 3.6-liter DOHC V6 delivers 263 hp and 253 ft-lbs of torque at a low 3,100 RPM, paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic. A direct fuel injection version puts out 304 hp, but is paired only with the 6-speed automatic. Mileage ratings for both powertrains average around 17/25 mpg.
The CTS-V, on the other hand, gets the new LSA V8 engine found in the Corvette ZR1, a 6.2-liter supercharged engine with 556 hp and 551 ft-lbs of torque at 3,800 RPM. Paired with either a Tremec 6060 6-speed manual or hydramatic 6-speed automatic with tap-shift, the engine hits 0-60 in 3.9 seconds. A bulging hood hides the larger engine and distinguishes the CTS-V from its less powerful sibling. A sport suspension, stiffer springs and shocks, Brembo brakes, bolstered Recaro seats, and a quicker steering ratio deliver a satisfying feel behind the wheel. Cadillac touts its revamped Magnetic Ride Control (stability) and Performance Traction Management systems, which use sensors to adjust road grip and stability according to road and driving conditions. Early test runs reveal an incredibly quick ride, with flat cornering, unbeatable road grip, and no annoying supercharger whine.
As befits a luxury sedan, the 2009 CTS offers all the expected creature comforts, such as power front seats, leatherette upholstery, a CD/MP3 player with satellite radio, and Bluetooth. A full complement of safety features includes 4-wheel ABS, traction and stability control, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows. What makes it an attractive choice for high-end drivers is a pricetag lower than the comparably equipped BMW 3-Series'.
However, being Cadillac's smallest sedan, the rear seat can feel a bit cramped for tall adults. Optional split-folding rear seats fold flat to expand the 14-cubic-foot trunk, but there are few storage spaces inside the 2009 CTS. Reviewers have also mentioned a small trunk opening. Where the CTS excels is in delivering an incredibly quiet and smooth ride, with imperceptible shifting and good bump absorption. Although it lacks nimbleness and rear visibility isn't great, reviewers recommend it as a good domestic alternative to European luxury sedans.
