2007 Cadillac CTS-V Review

The CTS is Cadillac’s entry-level luxury model. When it debuted in 2003, it marked a new direction in the company’s design. The CTS features a sharper design with a threatening-looking grille, making it a surprisingly bold Cadillac. The CTS-V debuted in 2004, featuring a six-speed manual transmission paired with a 400-hp engine. The CTS won the Car and Driver “Supercar Challenge” and was nominated for the “North American Car of the Year” by automotive journalists in 2002.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Cadillac CTS-V is a strong challenger to European luxury sports cars. While its interior may not be as refined, it delivers plenty of power for roughly the same price. If you’re looking for a comfortable ride that doesn’t compromise on performance, the CTS-V is an excellent choice.

What’s New For 2007:

The powertrain warranty has been upgraded to five years or 100,000 miles across the entire GM line. Optional satellite radio now features traffic reports. Run-flat tires are optional.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the CTS 4 out of 5 stars for initial reliability. The debut model had a few recorded issues, such as failing transmissions, steering problems, water leaks, inaccurate fuel gauges, and engine noise. It was recalled twice in 2004 for airbags that could suddenly deploy and for fracturing washers that could make the chassis drop over the wheel well. Expect average to above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

In government crash tests, the CTS earned 4 stars in all but the side rear seat test, which received 5 stars. The IIHS gave its best “Good” rating for frontal impacts, but its worst “Poor” rating for rear collisions. Side crash tests were not performed. The CTS comes with full side airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability and traction control.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ 400 hp
+ Standard stability control
+ Comfortable interior

Cons
- Interior not quite up to European quality
- Debatable styling
- Costs a bit more on average than competitors

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Infiniti M costs about $1,000 less than the CTS-V, but its V8 only has 325 hp, compared to the CTS-V’s 400. It also only has a five-speed transmission. The Mercedes Benz E-Class also costs $1,000 less, but it has an even weaker 268-hp V6, though it does include a seven-speed transmission. But the biggest bang for the buck might be the BMW 335xi. It costs a full $10,000 less than the CTS-V. It only has 300 hp and a V6, but it includes a six-speed and gets around five more miles to the gallon.

What Others Are Saying:

“The company still may have quality control problems and none so blatant on the exterior as the rippled orange-peel texture of our test vehicle’s ‘premium’ red paint. Hyundais have better paint jobs. The shoddy finish on the model we tested might be an anomaly – if not, Cadillac is remiss in thinking it can compete with European luxury brands.” – Forbes

“It’s taken three tries to get it right but with the … Cadillac CTS, Cadillac finally has the BMW fighter it’s been looking for. With performance, drivability, tasteful comfort and understated good looks of a European sport sedan, this CTS eschews traditional Cadillac excess. Yet it’s still a true Cadillac.” – About.com

“All in all, I think the Cadillac CTS is an excellent vehicle. It gives a good example of what Cadillac styling is going to be like over the next couple of years and I find that to be exciting. There are no fins, and in this case it’s fine. It has vertical taillights, though, which is close enough. – The Family Car

Read more about the 2007 Cadillac CTS-V at the Cadillac manufacturer web site.