Forget the Caddy you think you know, and step inside the Cadillac 2008 CTS: a vehicular hybrid of sporty sophistication and sensible luxury designed to give drivers a ride worth far more than its $32,990 starting MSRP would suggest. To create the 2008 CTS, Cadillac labored extensively to fine-tune its details–a near limitless list. And while potential buyers are most attracted to the dramatic design of the CTS, its combination of performance, technology and craftsmanship synonymous with vehicles sporting two times the sticker price is what turns them into devotees. And, of course, it all makes sense. What’s not to love about this luxury sports sedan? JEZ’s auto enthusiasts simply drove themselves crazy trying to find a reason–and couldn’t.
The technology-filled interior of the CTS is a handsome upgrade from the Cadillac of yesteryear (which, in and of itself, was hardly shabby). Hand-cut, sewn and wrapped surfaces are located throughout the car’s spacious cabin. Its upper instrument panel, door inserts, seats and shifter boot all boast French detailing. Furthering the classy interior are metallic finishes, chrome accents and optional sapele pommele wood commonly found on modern luxury yachts. The car’s easy-to-operate instruments look good and are situated within convenient reach of the driver. Its center stack (finished in either satin metallic or sapele pommele) is equipped with pop-up navigation (an option) and entertainment systems that flow seamlessly into the console.
One of the more enjoyable features of the CTS is its optional integrated music system, which was designed in part by the engineers responsible for some of the most coveted gadgetry currently on the market, such as the iPod. Naturally, the car’s center console is not only tailored to accommodate iPods, but also MP3 players and digital music devices that are chargeable via a USB port. When plugged in, the recorded playlists of these mini-computers appear on the car’s touch-screen and are controllable through the steering wheel (advancing tracks has never been easier!). The car’s 40GB hard drive even offers the convenience of pausing and rewinding live radio, while its cabin incorporates several strategically located LED diodes to set the mood. Heated and ventilated seating that incorporate Cadillac’s new “thin seat” technology are optional and provide maximum comfort in the tech-heavy CTS. Both drivers and passengers will enjoy views of the open road from the CTS’ optional “double” sunroof–a popular feature taken from Cadillac’s SRX Crossover.
The optional EasyKey system of the CTS was designed for drivers who want to unlock their vehicles while keeping their key fobs safely pocketed or purse-hidden. Taking this convenience one step further is the car’s Smart Remote Start system–an additional amenity that starts the CTS from as far as 200 feet away via key fob activation, and also triggers its climate control function and optional temperature-controlled seats. Also of note are signature headlamps with adaptive forward lighting that equips the CTS with low-energy LEDs and high-intensity discharge xenon lamps that swivel in accordance with vehicle steering.
As far as get up and go is concerned, the CTS provides plenty of power thanks to its 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 engine. Amazingly, the engine’s advanced direct-injection capability maintains fuel economy while still lowering emissions (technology not far removed from that which is utilized by today’s advanced diesel automobiles). And, for the first time, CTS buyers can choose rear-wheel (standard) or all-wheel drive, as well as six-speed manual or automatic transmission with driver shift control, allowing for convenient clutch-less shifting.
Inspired by Cadillac’s “Sixteen” concept car (a landmark vehicle), the exterior of the CTS is not easily confused with others. Its front appearance, while familiar, has indeed changed–a redesign that is especially evident in the car’s large, dual-textured chrome grille, which is now more vertical in shape and proudly boasts the manufacturer’s center-positioned wreath and crest.
The perfect marriage of aesthetics, technology and performance, the CTS is a road warrior with which to reckon. One test drive, and you’ll experience why the 2008 CTS recently was named Motor Trend’s “Car of the Year.” We did, and, obviously, we’re still talking about it.