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Cadillac CTS-V

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Cadillac CTS-V: Cadillac's BMW M5 alternative. Three generations of supercharged V8 sport sedan. Wagon variant became a cult c
Photo: IFCAR / Wikimedia Commons · Public domain

Cadillac's BMW M5 alternative. Three generations of supercharged V8 sport sedan. Wagon variant became a cult classic.

The Cadillac CTS-V is a high-performance variant of the CTS sport sedan, produced 2004-2019 across three generations. The CTS-V represented Cadillac entry into the sport sedan segment, competing with BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG E63, and Audi RS6 wagons. All three generations used supercharged V8 engines. The first-generation CTS-V (2004-2007) used the LS6 5.7L V8 from the C5 Z06 Corvette making 400 horsepower. The second-generation CTS-V (2009-2014) added a supercharger (LSA) making 556 horsepower. The third-generation CTS-V (2016-2019) used a supercharged 6.2L LT4 making 640 horsepower. The CTS-V Wagon (2011-2014) is the cult favorite variant. The combination of supercharged V8 in a wagon body was extremely rare; the wagon was sold in limited numbers globally. Used CTS-V Wagon prices have climbed dramatically. On WhipJury, CTS-V submissions are common, particularly second-generation Wagons and modified CTS-V cars.

CTS-V generations

First (2004-2007). LS6 5.7L V8, 400 horsepower.

Second (2009-2014). Supercharged 6.2L LSA, 556 horsepower. Sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles.

Third (2016-2019). Supercharged 6.2L LT4, 640 horsepower.

Frequently asked questions about Cadillac CTS-V

Why is the CTS-V Wagon so collectible?
Limited production globally (typically a few thousand cars). Supercharged V8 in a wagon body was extremely unusual. The combination provides serious performance with practical wagon utility. Cult following among enthusiasts. Used pricing has climbed significantly.
How does CTS-V compare to BMW M5?
Direct competitors. CTS-V has more refined daily character and supercharged V8 power. M5 has more aggressive sport tuning and twin-turbo V8 power (in current generations). Both are excellent in their respective generations. CTS-V was Cadillac entry into BMW M territory.
How much does a CTS-V cost?
Used pricing: First-gen $20,000-$40,000. Second-gen $30,000-$60,000+ (Wagons $40,000-$80,000+). Third-gen $50,000-$90,000+. Clean low-mile examples are at the higher end.
Was CTS-V replaced?
The CTS-V was replaced by the CT5-V Blackwing for 2022+. The CT5-V Blackwing uses the same 6.2L supercharged V8 as the third-generation CTS-V. The new model continues the Cadillac performance sedan lineage.
Are CTS-Vs reliable?
Generally yes. The supercharged 6.2L V8 (LSA in second-gen, LT4 in third-gen) is durable. Common issues are typical for high-performance cars: occasional supercharger snout bearing wear, suspension components, and electronic gremlins. Maintenance is moderately expensive.

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