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Cadillac CTS

Cadillac

Cadillac CTS: The car that modernized Cadillac (2003-2019). Sharp-edged Art and Science styling and a rear-drive sport sedan
Photo: IFCAR / Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

The car that modernized Cadillac (2003-2019). Sharp-edged Art and Science styling and a rear-drive sport sedan.

The Cadillac CTS is the car that modernized the brand, introducing the angular Art and Science design language and a credible rear-drive sport sedan. Across three generations it grew from a value alternative into a genuine BMW 5-Series rival, with available V6 power, a wagon body, and an early manual option. Its high-performance CTS-V variants became legends in their own right. On WhipJury, the CTS appears as a stylish, rear-drive used sport sedan, with the rare CTS wagon a cult pick.

CTS specifications

2.8 to 3.6 liter V6 (and turbo V6 later), with V8 power in the separate CTS-V. Rear-wheel drive or AWD. Automatic or, on early cars, a manual. Sedan, coupe, and wagon bodies.

Frequently asked questions about Cadillac CTS

Why is the CTS important to Cadillac?
It launched the angular Art and Science design language and proved Cadillac could build a credible rear-drive sport sedan, reshaping the brand image in the 2000s.
Is there a CTS wagon?
Yes. The second-generation CTS Sport Wagon is a rare and desirable body style, and a CTS-V Wagon with the supercharged V8 is a cult enthusiast favorite.
Does the CTS come with a manual?
Early CTS models offered a manual, and the CTS-V was available with one. Most standard CTS cars were automatics.
Is the CTS reliable?
Generally acceptable. The V6 engines are reasonably robust; watch for typical age-related electronics and suspension wear on higher-mileage cars.
What replaced the CTS?
The CT5, which continued the mid-size rear-drive sport sedan role under Cadillac alphanumeric naming.

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