2009 Cadillac CTS-V. Click image to enlarge |
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2009 Cadillac CTS-V
Detroit, Michigan - Following the introduction of the all-new 2008 CTS last year, GM has unveiled the redesigned high-performance CTS-V model which will go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2008. For the first time, the 2009 CTS-V will be offered outside North America, including exports to Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
"The CTS-V represents the full extension of our design, technology and performance capabilities," says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The V-Series takes the award-winning CTS sport sedan and elevates it to a position within the club of the world's most exclusive and capable cars."
Compared to the standard CTS, the CTS-V has a dihedral Cadillac grille that is larger to enable more air intake and features a satin finish. The raised hood encompasses the supercharged engine, and new front and rear fascias identify the vehicle as a V-Series. The car's bigger 19-inch wheels enhance its stance on the road.
Horsepower has increased nearly 35 percent for the '09 CTS-V, via a new 6.2-litre LSA supercharged V8 engine generating an estimated 550 hp and 550 lb.-ft. of torque. A sixth-generation Eaton supercharger minimizes the added noise previously associated with supercharged engines, and tightly controls intake air temperature for optimal performance.
Transmission choices include either a six-speed manual or an exclusive, six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. It is the first automatic offered on the CTS-V.
The 2009 Cadillac CTS-V features the world's fastest-reacting suspension technology, Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). It uses shocks controlled by electro-magnets, rather than mechanical valves, greatly accelerating response time. Electronic sensors at all four wheels literally "read the road" every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create virtually instantaneous and extremely precise control of body motions.
MRC technology first appeared on the Cadillac STS performance sedan.
As well, the CTS-V features Performance Traction Management system, a racing-derived technology that uses advanced electronics to manage engine torque for optimal traction during acceleration. In situations such as acceleration from a stop or exiting corners, Performance Traction Management regulates torque delivery for the best possible launch.
The CTS-V also includes sophisticated braking and tire systems, in partnership with two companies renowned for high-performance technology: Brembo and Michelin. Brembo brakes are at all four corners and include powerful, six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear. Michelin worked with Cadillac engineers to develop its Pilot Sport 2 (PS2) summer tire for CTS-V and its 19-inch wheels.
The V-Series will offer Recaro performance driving seats, providing excellent support for spirited driving and adding to the luxurious and purposeful interior. These new, 14-way adjustable performance seats include pneumatic bolster controls in the seat cushion and backrest.
A microfiber material is added to the steering wheel, seats and shifter, providing the soft feel and luxurious appearance of suede without suede's inherent drawbacks of difficult care and moisture sensitivity. These accents on the steering wheel, seat inserts and shifter are elegant to the touch and help support high-performance driving.
The car's integrated centre stack is trimmed with a new Obsidian material that is also applied to the center console and door trim. Just like every CTS, the V-Series includes a hand-stitched instrument panel, door trim and centre console. Leading-edge infotainment features include a 40-gigabyte hard drive, advanced navigation system with a "pop-up" screen and Bose digital surround audio, as well as factory-installed Bluetooth capability.
