2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe Review

SEE ALSO: Cadillac Buyers Guide

THE AUTO PAGE
By JOHN HEILIG

SPECIFICATIONS: 2011 CADILLAC CTS COUPE

Model: 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe
Engine: 3.6-liter V6
Horsepower/Torque: 304 hp @ 6,400 rpm/370 lb.-ft. @ 5,200 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic with manual
Wheelbase: 113.4 in.
Length/Width/Height: 188.5 x 74.1 x 55.9 in.
Tires: P245/45R19 (F)/P275/40R19 (R) no spare
Cargo volume: 10.5 cu. ft.
Fuel economy: 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway/18.3 mpg test
Fuel capacity: 18.0 gal.
Curb weight: 3,907 lbs.
Sticker: $50,035 (includes $825 destination charge, $2,200 in options ($2,090 summer tire performance package, $110 underhood appearance package))

The Bottom Line: Cadillac has expanded the CTS line with this coupe, it has great styling and performance that doesn't quite live up to it’s a+ styling, but still isn't bad.

Cadillac's CTS line replaced the Catera, which broke Caddy's mold of delivering only big boats for old people. The CTS itself broke Catera's mold in moving the bar higher on the performance line. The CTS Coupe is the latest iteration of the CTS philosophy, and while in standard form it's a nice car, the CTS-v version should be a knockout.

I had a sense of how attractive it is when a neighbor was in the driveway anxious to "kick the tires" before the delivery men had left. In fact, he sat in it before I did.

The CTS Coupe is all seemingly straight lines and angles. Coupe styling tends to be more dramatic than sedans, even in the same car line, and the CTS Coupe is no different. While it retains the basic CTS shape and lines, in a coupe form these lines seem more dramatic.

I was surprisingly pleased with the performance form the 3.6-liter V6. While I'm one of those purists who believe that a Caddy should have eight cylinders, the 304 horsepower V6 didn't do a bad job. Sure, if you demand the type of performance the styling suggests, then opt for the 556 hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the CTS-v, for a price bogey of about $12,000. As for me, I'd be perfectly satisfied with the V6.

The 6-speed automatic also has a manual mode. You can shift it with the shifter or with buttons on the back of the steering wheel.

Ride quality is excellent. Handling is very good. While the suspension is firm enough for good response, it's also very complaint. You won't get a backache driving the CTS Coupe.

The front seats are comfortable and offer good side support. the rear seats are coupe rear seats - hard to get into, but decent when you do. there's a slight claustrophobic feel in the back with small side windows. They have good leg room once you get there.

Push buttons abound. There is a pushbutton in the hidden exterior door handle and one on the inside when you want to get out. It seems strange, then, that there isn't a pushbutton start; just a faux key start without the key.

Controls are very intuitive; if you can't figure them out you probably didn't figure out how to get in the car in the first place. I was able to find audio stations on all bands as well as my iPod. The HVAC works well on both sides.

The trunk is listed at only 10 cubic feet, but is still perfect for a getaway weekend for a couple. However, it won't carry a golf bag without folding down the rear seat backs. The trunk expansion is more like a large pass through, but it does the job.

I must admit that the high beam is one of the best I have used. It clearly lighted the road ahead and the surrounding area, so if a deer was waiting in the wings ready to attack, I'd find her.

I also must admit I thoroughly enjoyed my week in the Cadillac CTS Coupe, an American car that can compete with the best from Germany or Japan on an equal basis and look good doing it.

© 2010 The Auto Page Syndicate