2013 Cadillac CTS

CHANGES FOR 2013:

- Revised grille.

- Adaptive remote vehicle starter standard on all trims.

- Six-speed manual no longer available on non-V models.

- Paint changes: Glacier Blue Metallic, Silver Coast Metallic, and Summer Gold Metallic added.

The second-generation CTS sports sedan that arrived in 2008 is arguably GM?s most competitive car. Except for a new front grille design, some new exterior colours and more standard equipment (like heated leather front seats), Cadillac?s mid-size CTS sports sedan goes into 2013 virtually as is. A 270-hp 3.0L V6 is the starter engine, while a direct-injected 3.6L V6 with 318 hp is the top-line mill. While a manual gearbox was previously available, all CTS models are now equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. Recaro seats are now part of the top-line CTS Premium models. The Caddy mid-size sedan is a true alternative to pricier imports like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class or Jaguar XF.

It?s hard to argue with 556 supercharged horsepower, and when it?s fitted into a fine-handling, rear-drive platform with an available slick shifting six-speed stick, you have the definition of ballistic luxury. Alcantara interior trim signals Caddy?s sporting mandate, yet the CTS-V still proves to be comfortable and accommodating, with all the expected luxo-toys.

CTS is also available as a coupe or Sport Wagon (covered in a separate entries). The CTS sedan is available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and with a 3.0-litre V6 or 3.6-litre V6 engine. All engines are mated to a six-speed automatic. The CTS-V is equipped with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 and six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission.

Features on the CTS Base Collection include 3.0L V6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, airbags (front, front seat, side curtain), OnStar, content theft alarm, electronic immobilizer, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, automatic headlights, LED taillights, windshield wiper activated headlights, body colour power heated and folding mirrors, rear vision camera, 17-inch aluminum wheels, Rainsense automatic wipers, automatic dual-zone climate control, cruise control, driver information centre, TPMS, automatic power locks, remote keyless entry, driver seat and mirror memory, auto-dimming rear view mirror, leather wrapped steering wheel with audio/cruise/OnStar/Bluetooth controls, tilt/telescopic steering, cargo net, universal home remote, power windows with auto-up/down front windows, 8-way power front seats, heated front seats, perforated leather seating surfaces, 8-speaker Bose audio with six-disc changer, Bluetooth phone connectivity, and satellite radio.

CTS Performance Collection adds 3.6L V6 engine, dual exhaust with chrome tips, sport-tuned suspension, fog lights, HID headlights, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and 10-speaker Bose audio with auxiliary input, USB port, and 40GB hard drive.

CTS Premium Collection adds rear parking assist, sunroof, wider 18-inch wheels with polished aluminum finish, automatic cabin odour filtration system, E-Z key passive entry system, push button start, power tilt/telescopic steering, wood trim package, heated and ventilated seats, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and navigation system with pop-up screen.

All trims above are also available in all-wheel drive.

CTS-V adds 6.2L LSA supercharged V8 engine, six-speed manual transmission, Brembo 6-piston front/4-piston rear performance brakes, limited-slip rear differential, Magnetic Ride Control sport-tuned suspension, headlight washers, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and leather seating surfaces with suede inserts; removes sunroof, ventilated front seats, and 60/40 split-folding rear seat.