2014 Cadillac CTS Review: Luxury and Performance Redefined

This week we got our hands on the 2014 Cadillac CTS 3.6 which comes with a wide range of improvements over its predecessor. After driving two new V6 sedan launches in the last ten days, namely the Hyundai Genesis and the Infiniti Q50, it was only natural we extend the V6 streak by signing up for the new CTS. Here's the scoop:

Style

Cadillac has its own design legacy and the public has embraced it through its countless appearances in gangsta rap music videos! The Cadillac CTS carries that legacy forward. The 2014 CTS is very similar, almost identical in looks compared to its elder brother, the Cadillac XTS V-Sport which we reviewed recently. It is by far the classiest V6 in town, the most elegant and yes, equally badass. I love it. There is so much attitude with this car. I especially love the new enlarged grille with bigger teeth; it is more in-your-face than before. While the new Infiniti Q50 has a wider stance, the new CTS is longer by 127mm, which adds to the elegance theme. The standard 18-inch alloy wheels are very well designed, and yes, the signature vertical lights on the front come with LED.

Interior Material and Finishing

As expected from the Cadillac brand, the interior quality and finishing is top-notch. The 20-way adjustable leather seats, in particular, are handcrafted and hand-sewn with superb texture. It is truly an executive's car, and you get a feeling of sitting in a very luxurious sedan when you sit inside the new CTS. The lights are also very creatively designed and illuminate a very classy ambience inside. The only noteworthy negative point is the trim fittings on the glovebox and doors which didn't quite complement the surroundings and felt inferior in quality. I have felt better wood trims in cars like Chrysler 300 C and even the new Hyundai Genesis. Another minor point is the glovebox design; it's very small. I tried fitting a small notebook and it took me a while before I could manage to cram it in. I recommend improving these small elements for an even better interior in the next upgrade.

Interior Features and Technology

The new Cadillac CTS comes packed with comfort and entertainment features:

• 11-speaker Bose sound system (standard)
• Optional 13-speaker surround system
• Adaptive remote start with climate control
• Head-up display (adjustable for display and brightness)
• Ten airbags for safety
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Blind spot alert
• Excellent collision alert system
• Rear parking assist (standard)
• Optional vibrating seat alert

A minor gripe is that the audio controls are on the left side of the steering, which, for me, was a bit unintuitive. However, that's a minor ergonomic issue that depends on the driver's preference. Finally, the haptic touch-based CUE infotainment system is very cool, though it takes a bit of time to get used to it, which is only natural since it's completely different from infotainment systems on other models.

Interior Space and Visibility

Interior space is adequate although not the strongest point of the 2014 CTS. While it's technically classified as a 5-seater, there is sufficient space for two adults at the back and a child in the middle. The rear legroom is quite adequate, and the boot, while not really spacious, is good enough to have a few shopping bags. Visibility all around is good enough; however, you need to be extra careful while changing lanes as the visibility on the sides is not the best. The front visibility is very good, so parking lot maneuvering is hassle-free.

Power and Acceleration

The 2014 Cadillac CTS generates 321 horsepower and 373 Nm torque which, in numbers, is actually quite comparable to the BMW 535i. It comes with two modes, Touring and Sport (there is Snow as well, but who cares?). The transmission is upgraded to an 8-speed automatic improving fuel efficiency. The Touring mode is great for fuel-saving cruising on highways as the RPM stays below 2,000 even at speeds above 120 km/h. Acceleration is subdued in this mode, so it's not the most fun to drive. In Sport Mode, the pickup is actually quite good, and the car accelerates from 0-100 km in 8.25 seconds in our tests (6.9 seconds is claimed in ideal conditions). While it's a decent engine for the most part, it does feel a bit underpowered during high acceleration, particularly when compared with acceleration tests we recently did with Hyundai Genesis Sedan and Infiniti Q50. To be fair, the main purpose of the CTS is not to be a sports car for enthusiasts but to be an excellent highway cruiser. In that respect, the CTS creates a fine balance between good power, acceleration, and cruise experience. It also has a great rev sound during acceleration, while external traffic noise is minimized to create a quiet cabin inside.

Handling and Suspension

This was a pleasant surprise. The 2014 Cadillac CTS handles much better on sharp turns compared to many straight-line American sedans. The weight distribution is almost 50:50, the curb weight is lower by over 90 kilos, and the Magnetic Ride Control damping system now comes as standard. All this accounts for a significant improvement in road feedback and cornering pleasure. Having said that, is it better compared to German counterparts? Not there yet. While it's good for most situations, there is some understeer on sharp turns and roundabouts. Again, for its intended purpose and audience, the CTS handling is actually better than what I expected. The suspension in Sport mode is not bad, thanks to the Magnetic Ride Control technology. This combined with improved torsional rigidity makes the CTS so much more corner-friendly than, say, the Chrysler 300 C.

Verdict

The 2014 Cadillac CTS is a treat for those who like to enjoy hallmark American comfort and luxury. The drive experience cuts a fine balance between highway cruising and cornering fun. It is not the most spacious, nor is it the ultimate driver's car, yet it's definitely a great style statement.

Prices and Specs: 2014 Cadillac CTS