Following a major redesign in 2009, the Cadillac CTS-V high-performance midsize sedan receives only a few minor updates for 2010, including new 19-inch performance tires and an upgraded interior air filtration system with automatic cabin odor filtration. Otherwise, the second-generation CTS-V remains unchanged from the previous year.

Thanks to its massive 6.2-liter supercharged V8 powerplant, which produces a whopping 556 hp and 551 lb-ft of torque, the rear-wheel-drive CTS-V competes well against such European-made performance vehicles as the BMW M5, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, and the Audi RS6. With all that power under the hood, the CTS-V jumps out from 0-60 in just 3.9 seconds, making it the fastest production sedan in the world, according to the automaker. The engine links to a six-speed TREMEC TR-6060 manual transmission with two overdrive gears or an available six-speed Hydra-Matic automatic. The EPA estimates fuel economy numbers for the V8 at 13/19 mpg with the six-speed manual transmission and 12/19 with the automatic.

Based on the CTS sedan and available in only one trim, the four-door CTS-V seats up to five passengers comfortably in a luxury-oriented cabin, which Cadillac completely redesigned in 2009. Gauges and controls are large, well-located, and easy to read, though some find the audio and navigation system controls, with their stacked arrangement, a little too tightly spaced. The heated front leather seats with suede fabric material inserts feature 10-way power adjustment with power reclining and lumbar control. The driver's side also includes memory settings for the seat and outside mirror. A dual-zone climate control system features separate settings for the driver and front passenger. The leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel sports fingertip controls for the audio, cruise control, climate control, and traction control systems, and includes paddle shifters for manual shifting when the CTS-V comes equipped with the automatic transmission.

Other standard interior features for the 2010 CTS-V include Bluetooth, cruise control, keyless entry, and keyless start. The 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system includes a CD/DVD player, XM satellite radio, and MP3 input jack, and works in conjunction with a navigation system with a 40-gigabyte hard drive, an 8-inch pop-up screen, and real-time weather and traffic updates. In addition, the CTS-V comes standard with OnStar, which offers turn-by-turn navigation, hands-free calling, vehicle diagnostics, and emergency services, among other features. Options include Recaro heated, 14-way adjustable power sports seats and an Ultraview double-size power sunroof.

Outside, the CTS-V's distinctive lines and unique V-specific high-airflow mesh grille are accented by HID headlights with headlight washers, an integrated spoiler, Rainsense wipers, and stainless-steel chrome exhaust tips. The CTS-V rides on a performance-tuned suspension with two-mode Magnetic Ride Control electromagnetically controlled shocks, which provide a sporty ride, although some owners note a bit of bounciness over uneven pavement surfaces. ZF Servotronic 2 power rack-and-pinion steering ensures responsive handling and cornering, while powerful Brembo four-wheel disc brakes bring the two-ton CTS-V to a smooth, capable halt with virtually no noseplow.

Safety features include four-wheel antilock brakes, all-speed traction control, and GM's StabiliTrak stability control system. An ultrasonic rear parking assist system aids drivers when backing up. Front and rear head airbags and dual front side-mounted airbags with a passenger-sensing system also come standard.