Sunday, January 4, 2015

CTS-V is Back for 2016 With 640 Horsepower

Cadillac CTS-V



In 2004, Cadillac came out with their very inconspicuous V-Series Cadillac. Not too many people knew too much about it until it started breaking records as the fastest luxury sports sedan in the world. Breaking records at places like Nürburgring raceway and on the quarter-mile made it clear it was not just a prettier version of the CTS.    
                                              
Every since the third-generation CTS was introduced in 2013 as a 2014 model, we have yet to see a V-Series Cadillac. But after a 2-year hiatus, Cadillac has the new generation CTS-V ready to be introduced to the world at the North American Auto Show in Detroit. It will be introduced as a 2016 model, and with all of the speculation that surrounded it for most of 2014, a drivetrain is now confirmed. 

For a long time there were rumors of a 4.5-liter twin turbocharged V-6 and probably a lot of hope for one from some people as that would make the Cadillac a quiet, quick little sedan. But Cadillac decided to go with the sure bet, and you can't get much more sure than the 640-hp, 6.4-liter supercharged, LT4 V-8 from the 2015 Corvette ZO6.

This may be a little disappointing to some GM enthusiasts. The powerful Corvette motor will be mated to the very well-respected eight-speed 8L90E automatic transmission. But unlike years in the past, there will be no manual transmission offered this time around. 

What gives this Cadillac a smooth ride and the ability to hit corners like a racecar is the Magnetic Ride Suspension that GM uses on all of their performance vehicles. Michelin Pilot Super Sports with 9.5-inch wide tires in the front and 10-inch tires in the back also add some help. Slowing the Cadillac down are Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers in the front and four in the back.

Just like last time, the world-famous RECARO racing seats will fill the front seat area. Special badges, stitching, and trim will be placed all around the vehicle to let everyone know this is not just your average Cadillac. A big mesh front grille, special ventilated hood, rims and much more will help this Cadillac CTS-V standout in the crowd. And no worries, all standard CTS features including technology like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth will carry over to the powerhouse V-Series Cadillac. Look for its unveiling this January in Detroit at the North American Auto Show.