America is throwing punches.
For quite some time, the luxury sports sedan market has been dominated by the Germans with their AMG, S/RS, and M-badges. That’s all beginning to change, and it started with the second-generation Cadillac CTS-V. For 2015, things are getting turned up even further with the new 2016 Cadillac CTS-V boasting 640 horsepower, a tuned and focused suspension, bespoke bodywork, and staggered wheels.
Virtually every single exterior part and panel on the Cadillac CTS-V is unique. The front and rear bumpers, side skirts, rear spoiler, and more are not shared with the rest of the model lineup, and designed for maximum performance. Carbon fiber makes up the entire hood and features an air extraction vent to reduce lift and keep the engine bay cool. All of the fenders also extend outwards to show off its muscle and cover the new staggered wheels.
Under the carbon fiber hood sits the most exciting part of the Cadillac CTS-V – the supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine. The new engine utilizes a 1.7-liter supercharger along with optimized cylinder heads and lightweight titanium valves. A total of 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft. of torque is sent to the rear pair of the staggered wheels through a quick-shifting 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission. The quick and smooth gear changes allow for the sport sedan to reach 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds from rest and hit a top speed of 200 mph – 45 mph more than its electronically-limited German competition.
While it has the power, the new Cadillac CTS-V also can hold its own on the track and through the twisties thanks to a stronger body structure that is 25-percent stiffer than the non-V CTS models. Working with the stiffer structure is a tuned suspension with a multi-link, double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension and five-link rear suspension. Grabbing the pavement are new Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires worn by the lightweight staggered wheels. The new forged wheels help achieve 1.0 G of lateral acceleration and measure 19 x 9.5 up front and 19 x 10.0 at the rear, and hide the new Brembo braking system. For the third-generation CTS-V, third-generation Magnetic Ride Control is also used to rapidly adjust the dampers for ultimate performance.
“V-Series represents the very best of the Cadillac brand – the pinnacle of our design and technical capabilities,” said Johan de Nysschen, Cadillac president. “The new CTS-V is the most compelling example of Cadillac’s product substance and brand trajectory. The new CTS-V soars into the stratosphere of the most exhilarating luxury cars.”
The new 2016 Cadillac CTS-V is the most powerful road-going car built by the American brand and will be available in 2015. Pricing has not been announced.
Source: Cadillac
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