08 Cadillac CTS V6 Performance Sedan By:  ALAN GELL www.CarColumns.Net Cadillac introduced their CTS model about 5 years ago and it has helped to revolutionize the Cadillac image, as well as sales.  The CTS is a trend setter and is helping re-establish the brand name, while at the same time, denote the grandeur of classic Cadillac’s.  In January, I had a new CTS for a week-long test drive.

My test model was an all-new 2008 V6 Performance Sedan.  It was gorgeous, both in design and color choices.  The exterior was called Light Platinum and the interior was Light Titanium.  I’m not sure what that difference was all about.  All I recognized was that this was one beautiful vehicle, dripping luxury.  The blend of sportiness with the luxury was finely honed. 

When the first CTS was introduced, it had a very strong chiseled appearance.  There was some controversy over that edgy look at the time.  But the design engineers have proved their point.  The funky look is one of the most mentioned reasons for the purchase.  Performance is another major purchase-point and CTS pushes the performance package further and further with each model year.  This new 2008 is no exception. 

Under the hood of my test model was a 3.6, V6 engine with direct injection.  The transmission was a six speed automatic.  Acceleration was terrific, providing almost instantaneous movement because of the electronic throttle.  The transmission was smooth and positive. 

For 2008, the GM engineers have moved the wheels two inches further apart, which helps provide better suspension, better balance, and better handling.  This CTS is nice for going on a slow drive on a Sunday afternoon, but it has so much spirit under that hood,  I am sure that most scenarios will have the driver pushing the pedal down more often than not.
Seventeen inch wheels and tires are standard, but my test model had the Performance Package which included 18 inch wheels and all-season tires.  The cooling system was upgraded for more performance as was the suspension.  The seating package included leather seats, which were heated and memory adjustable.  A Luxury Level One package included a theft deterrent alarm, rain-sensor wipers, and special interior accent lighting.

Speaking of the interior, the sporty and luxury look is evident throughout.  There are just the right blends of metallic finishes, wood, and chrome.  The dashboard has an overall look of a cockpit.  The gauges and dials are easy to read and understand and they all flow together in a very graceful and smooth appearance.  Those details are what sets this sedan apart as a true luxury vehicle.

In pure aesthetic appeal, the 08 CTS is not quite so chiseled looking, yet it makes a bold statement of energy.  It has just the right amount of sculpture to set the profile apart as a true Cadillac.  I saw the new 2009 model at the Detroit Auto Show and yes, there will be some upgrading and improvements.  But this 2008 model is about the best Cadillac I’ve seen in a long number of years and it is hard to imagine how much more can be done to improve it.

My test model had a base MSRP of just $34,545.  All those packages, add-on’s, and delivery charges brought the bottom sticker price to $43,330.  Mileage in city is about 17 or 18 mpg, but on the highway, mileage is a very respectable 26 mpg.  Check out the new CTS Performance Sedan yourself at your General Motors dealership.