Cadillac CTS: Quick Test

Cadillac's second-generation CTS has a tough assignment, not only to restore luster to a faded American luxury brand but to do so while competing in arguably the most competitive arena in the luxury-car marketplace: the entry-level performance sedan segment.

It's a popular niche long on stunning German and Japanese sedans, but short on worthy American contenders.

Impressively, the latest Cadillac delivers on all counts.

On the road, the CTS is a true performance sedan that holds its own against its European competitors. Our test car came equipped with two optional performance packages including, among other things, a firmer sport suspension; summer performance tires; and a limited-slip differential.

Though a bit softly sprung for my taste, the performance package-equipped Cadillac CTS strikes what should be a profitable balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride quality for most buyers in this segment. While the luxurious ride would have you think the bias is toward luxury, the limited-slip diff sways the scales back toward handling.

And either way, the car has excellent traction thanks to one of the best stability control systems on the market.

The 304 horsepower, direct-injected 3.6-liter V6 engine in our test car pushes the nearly two-ton sedan from 0-60 in 6.0 seconds - adequate but not planet-shaking like the "can't-get-there-soon-enough" 550 hp CTS-V.

As for its styling, the CTS is distinctly American with tons of Cadillac DNA. The faceted, sharply-angled surfaces of the Art & Science design language first seen in production on the original CTS has been further refined, with more "soft surfaces" yielding a more balanced look.

On performance and looks, it's a homerun. Inside, it gets even better: The CTS quietly boasts nothing short of today's best American-car interior. Clearly, Cadillac has listened to criticism from both the media and owners, and this new sedan is all the better for it.

Inside, the "two-tone" theme works well aesthetically and functionally, with the darker top of the dash cutting down on windshield reflections. The upper and lower dash are split by real wood accents that are tastefully integrated and nicely finished off with just the right amount of brushed metal.

The seats are not only comfortable but handsome as well, with superb stitching detail.

Strategically sized between the BMW 3- and 5-series, there's plenty of room insideŅeven for rear-seat passengers.

The Cadillac CTS not only has the looks to compete with the European and Japanese entries in this highly contested category, it has the moves as well. It delivers luxury and performance in equal measure, and in a uniquely American way.

All that may not merit a reissue of the old "Standard of the World" Cadillac slogan, but it's a great start.

Watch the video
Read Part 1: Design
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Cadillac CTS

Performance
- Acceleration: Direct injected V6 pulls adequately (at best) - if you want planet-destroying power, wait for the upcoming 550 hp CTS-V
- Handling: Good compromise between sport and luxury - leaning toward the luxury side of the equation
- Braking: A bit more dive than expected, but effective nonetheless

Design
- Exterior: The best execution of Cadillac's Art & Science design language so far
- Interior: Nothing short of the best American car interior

Utility
- Comfort: Larger cabin than its obvious competitors with every convenience option imaginable
- Space: Bigger than a 3-series BMW, smaller than a 5-series makes for a good amount of space inside

Safety
- Dynamics: Good, stiff chassis has the moves to get you out of trouble
- Technology: Airbags in all the right places, plus one of the best stability control systems out there

Value
- Price: Well positioned given its size and content
- Mileage: Direct injection helps the engine deliver decent mileage - that you can use regular unleaded also helps

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: While a great looking American sedan, there's not much in it emotionally - if you need an adrenaline shot, wait for the "V"
- Fun to spank: A bit underpowered to be really naughty behavior, but the limited-slip differential helps a ton

SPECIFIACTIONS

Layout: Front engine / Rear wheel drive
Engine: 3.6 liter, direct-injected, DOHC V6
Power (SAE): 304 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque: 273 lbs-ft @ 5200 rpm
Redline: 6500 rpm
Gearbox: 6 speed automatic
Curb Weight: 3980 lbs.
0-60 mph: 6.0 sec.
1/4 mile: 14.5 sec.
Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
Mileage: 17 city / 26 highway
Base Price: $34,545
Competitors: BMW 335i, Mercedes-Benz C350, Infiniti G35