2008 Cadillac CTS

Cadillac came to the podium in Detroit with a performance recipe of its own. Contrary to common practice the redesigned 2008 Cadillac CTS didn’t increase power with a larger engine but through technology instead.

The new car can either be propelled by the existing 2.8 litre V-6 or fitted with a new 3.6 litre direct-injection V-6 engine, claimed to produce power levels of a V-8 but with better fuel economy. The 3.6 delivers an estimated 300hp and 270 lb.-ft. of torque due largely to direct-injection technology which increases power and reduces fuel consumption and hydrocarbon emissions.

The 2008 CTS will be available in both rear and all-wheel-drive configurations and a choice of either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Vehicles equipped with the all-wheel-drive system and automatic transmission will also gain a new active transfer case that automatically transfers torque from rear to front or front to rear for optimal traction.

Cadillac’s bold, taut and angular styling direction is continued in this iteration of the CTS, but much of the improvements are below the surface. Engineers implemented numerous tweaks and revisions to the suspension using extensive computer modelling, combined with development driving of prototype cars on racetracks around the world.

The car’s revised chassis includes a two-inch wider track front and rear but the wheelbase remains identical to its predecessor. This translates into better roadholding and grip according to Bob Kotarak, lead development engineer.

The 2008 CTS represents a new design theme for Cadillac interiors, emphasizing technical precision with elegant, hand-crafted details. French stitching is used throughout the interior and the integrated centre stack can be specified in either a satin metallic finish or genuine Sapele wood. Strict attention to packaging, premium materials, surface development and comfort combine to meet the discriminating tastes of luxury performance sedan buyers.