2019 Cadillac CTS-V

The 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is only available in one trim which is a 4 door sedan featuring a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 8 speed automatic transmission. It is only available in rear wheel drive. CTS-V starts at $87,995 and Options include 16-way power-adjustable Recaro front seats ($2,300) and a performance data and video recorder ($1,600).

We Recommend

As only one trim is available you add several packages according to your taste but it will significantly raise the price.

The Cadillac CTS-V is the high performance variant of CTS-sedan which comes with a monstrous supercharged 6.2 liter V8 and produces a whopping 650 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear wheel drive is the only option. Standard carbon fiber hood with dynamic air extractors improves aerodynamics and helps in outflux of heat.

The steering mounted magnesium paddle shifters can be used to manually shift the gears. Short gear ratio's help to maintain optimum power in the whole rev range, making most of the supercharged engine. The performance algorithm shifting helps in selecting the right gear for you, whether you're seeking fast lap times on the track or enjoying your favorite twisty road.

The Cadillac CTs-V produces the highest number of horses followed by Mercedes E63 S which puts out 603 hp. The BMW M5 takes the third spot with 600 hp and Lexus GSF stands at last. The CTS-V is a great alternative to German sedans and costs many quids lower.

Acceleration

Wolf under a sheep's skin is the perfect idiom for the Cadillac CTS-V. With its supercharged engine, the CTS-V can sprint to 60 mph from standstill in just 4.1 seconds. It has the shaming power and practicality of a family sedan, the biggest issue to find a road long enough to devour it.

Launch Control manages tire spin to optimize full-throttle acceleration from a standing start and it tops out at 200 mph.

In spite of having such amazing power, it somehow falls behind than all its major opponents (BMW and Audi). The Lexus GS -F stays on the last spot.

Ride and Handling

The Cadillac CTS-V offers excellent driving dynamics balanced with the luxurious and refined cabin. Its design is honed at the infamous Nurburgring track. The suspension and chassis complement the supercharged engine and provides the racing capability. CTS-V features a multilink MacPherson in the front and five-link independent suspension in the rear which achieves track performance but feels bumpy as an everyday driver. During aggressive cornering, the electronic Limited-Slip Differential automatically sends power to the rear wheels for optimum traction and faster exit speed.

The 2019 CTS-V is based on GM's Alpha platform which underpins the ATS and the Camaro. Third generation Magnetic ride control reads the road thousand times per second and independently controls all the four dampers for maximum stability. The ZF sourced electric power steering is precise with immediate response. CTS-V comes with the exclusive Performance Traction Management derived from the Dovii race car features 5 drive modes(Wet, Dry, Sport 1, Sport 2 and Race ) for the track. You can adjust the different levels of power delivery, traction control, and steering sensitivity.

Braking

The stopping power of the CTS-V is managed by the massive racing-inspired six-piston front, four-piston rear, fixed -caliper Brembo brakes with vented rotors. The pedal feel is firm and inspires unmatched confidence while cornering enthusiastically. The Brembo brake system provides durability, consistency and the capability for track-day performance. Emergency braking only requires 106 feet to stop which is excellent for a luxury sedan.

Being the lightest among the four is an added advantage for the Cadillac and hence it has an impressive braking distance of 106 feet. German rivals are much better and comes to halt under 100 feets.

The Cadillac CTS-V employs a more-efficient and compact 1.7L supercharger and matches it with direct injection and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) for best fuel efficiency. It delivers 14 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway which is average for this segment.

The BMW M5 sedan and its turbo four-cylinder engine deliver 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The Mercedes-Benz E class has similar fuel economy as the CTS-V.

The inside of the Cadillac CTS-V is handcrafted with performance-oriented execution. Its cabin is large and comfortable yet imparts a sporty feeling for pure exhilaration. It is no more your grandfather's caddy with soft and cushy seats instead the optional Recaro racing is truly derived from the racetrack. An available suede microfiber steering wheel and shift knob complement the seating.

The 20-way power adjustable standard seats are exceptionally comfortable with ample amounts of bolstering. They are wide, deep but not too soft which makes them perfect for long hours in the cabin. The rear seats are also comfortable with snug toe room but wide knee room. The sloping roofline and thick pillars make limited headroom for taller individuals.

In terms of interior space most of the rivals are similar and there is not much of a difference. However the Cadillac has bit cramped rear seats.

Interior Features

• Handcrafted cut-and-sewn interior
• 20-way adjustable power front seats, automatic heated and ventilated
• Semi-Aniline leather seating with suede microfiber inserts
• Automatic heated steering wheel
• Adaptive Remote Start
• Wireless charging
• Heads-up display

Infotainment System

The CTS-V comes with Cadillac's Cue infotainment screen that controls all the tech and features. The eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, integrated into the top of the central instrument panel which is intuitive to use. Volume and climate are adjusted through the touch sensitive button instead of traditional knobs.

• Android Auto and Apple Carplay
• Wi-Fi-hotspot
• Bluetooth
• USB ports
• Satellite radio
• 11 speaker Bose audio system

Cargo Capacity

The Cadillac CTS-V has 13.7 cubic feet of space which are below average for this segment. The trunk opening is small and the load height is good for all your belongings. The cargo capacity can be increased via 60/40 rear folding seats. The narrow ending of the rear gives it an oblong shape which can't carry much of your luggage.

Most of the rivals offer more space than the CTS-V. The BMW M5 has one of the largest trunks with 19 cubic feet capacity. The Mercedes-Benz E 63 also have cargo space similar to the Bimmer. Both the 5 Series and the E-Class are available in wagon body styles that offer a lot more cargo space.

Cadillac CTS-V looks terrific from every angle with powerful lines and curves. The available carbon fiber package (front splitter, hood extractor, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler) takes aerodynamics and dramatic styling to another level. CTV's iconic V-Performance mesh grille is cleverly engineered to provide maximum airflow to the engine. Hundreds of crystalline LED lights move from bumper to the fender to accentuate the exterior design with (HID) headlamps featuring Adaptive Forward Lighting.

The large air ducts in the front fascia to feed more air to the supercharger and lightweight carbon fiber hood with air extractors are some of its unique elements. Wide fenders are meant to accommodate stunning 19-inch alloys with Michelin Pilot sport tires. The Cadillac CTS-V shares the same 114.6-inch wheelbase as the CTS but features wider front and rear footprints with a low height that enhances grip. The final touch of the exterior boasts an integrated rear spoiler, with a carbon fiber rear diffuser to manage airflow.

The Mercedes Benz E 63 has the highest curb weight while the Cadillac CTS-V have the lowest. Lengthwise the Cadillac is the longest and the M5 sedan is the shortest.

Exterior Features

• V Grille
• Carbon-Fiber hood
• Functional aero design: Includes front splitter, rocker panels, and rear spoiler
• 19-inch premium painted forged alloy wheels
• Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires

What's the point of having a sports sedan if the car isn't safe enough? That is why Cadillac has put some really impressive safety features like Head-up Display, front-collision assist, and lane keep assist. IIHS has not rated the Cadillac CTS-V yet.

• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Electronic traction control
• StabiliTrak electronic stability control system
• Airbag system
• Rear Vision Camera
• Following Distance Indicator
• Forward Collision Alert
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Safety belts, 3-point, driver and right-front passenger
• Safety belts, 3-point, rear, all seating positions
• Automatic Safety Belt Tightening
• Child seat restraint system
• Door locks, rear child security
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

BMW M5 Sedan

The BMW M5 is the most popular sports sedan in this segment because of its dynamic performance and high quality interior. Between the CTS-V and M5, the Bimmer has better engine options and pinpoint handling. The 5 series is also ahead in terms of passenger space and cargo capacity. The 5 Series is a better car overall, but it costs thousands of dollars more than the CTS. If you can afford it, it's worth the splurge.

Mercedes E63 S Sedan

Equipped with upscale materials, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabin is most pleasant in the class. The E-Class' infotainment includes a splendid 12.3-inch screen and very intuitive. You can get this Benz in a variety of body styles. It offers more spacious rear seats than the CTS- V.The E-Class has composed handling around corners, yet comes up short to the sporty character of CTS-V. The E class starts around which is heck cheaper than the CTS-V.

Lexus GS F Sedan

Like the CTS V, the GS F is the high performance variant of the GS sedan. It is powered by a 5.0 liter V8 which produces 467 hp and 389 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and power is routed to the rear wheels. The Cadillac CTS-V is far ahead in terms of performance and tech features.

The Cadillac CTS-V with 640 hp V8 engine has got some performance which is rivaled by few cars. The design has handsome curves and angles with large vertical LED lights and trapezoidal exhaust ports. It has a long list of standard features with a comfortable ride in spite of sophisticated suspension. Its cabin is well put together like some of its rivals. The Cadillac CTS-V is a good alternative to some of its German competitors.