Cadillac CTS-V (2008) CAR review

The Cadillac CTS-V is a super saloon to make BMW M5 drivers feel inadequate. And with a huge 6.2-litre V8 it has the cubic capacity and cylinder count to match the Mercedes AMG trio of C, E and CLS 63. Except GM saw fit to strap an Eaton supercharger to the V8 in the Cadillac CTS-V…

That LS9 V8 is basically the same engine you’ll find in the latest Corvette ZR1,  albeit with the whick turned down to deliver 82 fewer horses. Still, you shouldn’t be found wanting with 556bhp. But unlike the Corvette this Caddy has four doors, five seats and the option of a six-speed auto. Read on for CAR Online’s first drive of the Cadillac CTS-V and to find out whether V can match up to the Establishment's M, RS and AMG rivals.

Just what exactly is the Cadillac CTS-V?

This Caddy is a bit of a conundrum. Size-wise it’s nearer 5-series than Three. Yet the engine produces more power than an M5, although at around £47k the CTS-V is cheaper than an M3.

In the States the CTS-V costs a mere $65k (£37k), so despite the current economic climate, and with the help of an auto, GM should hit its 6000-a-year sales target. If it all goes well, we’ll then see a V version of the CTS Coupe, and maybe even a hot CTS wagon.

Can the CTS-V succeed?

Things look good from outside. The excessive bling from past Caddys has gone, so when you look at the CTS you’ll never think of the Escalade. The clean, crisp looks and sharp edges are pretty smart to these eyes, and in a dark colour the V can even be understated.

But with the huge mesh grilles ensnaring the face, few cars look meaner when charging up behind you. Only the chrome rims are a turn-off, but you can spec darkened alloys.

In the cabin, the seats are from Recaro, the leather is stitched by the same people who trim the Bugatti Veyron and Bose provides a decent stereo. And unlike Cadillacs of old everything has substance when you touch, twist or twirl it.

Click 'Next' below to find out how the Cadillac CTS-V handles on track