2012 Cadillac CTS Review | Toronto Sun

 
2012 Cadillac CTS Review
By Joe Duarte, Toronto Sun
 
Grille, engine revisions pave road for CTS
 
When it was introduced in 2002, the Cadillac CTS set the stage for future Cadillacs, both in terms of looks and performance. It now heads into 2012 with freshened looks and a new V6 powerplant.
 
The new 3.6-litre V6 features direct injection and variable valve timing to boost horsepower by five percent to 318 (from 304 in the previous version), while holding the line on economy. Horsepower peaks slightly higher in the rev range (6800 rpm, up from 6400), while torque is marginally higher (275 lb.-ft., up from 273) and peaking at lower rpm (4900 vs. 5200).
Improvements were achieved through a combination of enhancements – new cylinder head design with integrated exhaust manifold, larger intake valves with improved intake port design, intake camshaft lobes that stay open longer, composite intake manifold, new fuel pump, isolated fuel rail and optimized injectors, throttle body design enhancements, stronger and lighter connecting rods, and cylinder block improvements.
The engine continues to be available in rear and all wheel drive models.
 
The base engine is a direct injected 3.0-litre V6 also with continuously variable valve timing to put out 270 hp and 223 lb.-ft. of torque. It is mated to a six speed manual transmission on rear-wheel drive models, optioned up to a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters (which is standard with the 3.6L V6 and on AWD models).
 
Although not readily apparent at first blush, the new “shield” shape grille features premium finishes, a new frame and new mesh. The Cadillac Wreath & Crest has sharper colours and raised ridges, giving it a new 3D quality.
All models get standard heated outside mirrors, 17-inch aluminum wheels, halogen headlights (automatically activated when wipers are engaged), leather seating, satellite radio, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control and auto-dimming rearview mirror.
 
For ride and handling, the standard set-up is front independent short/long arms (SLA) and multi links at the rear. GM’s StabiliTrak stability control system is standard, as are antilock brakes and traction control.
 
On the safety front, features include the usual complement of airbags (front, front side impact and full side air curtains), active front head restraints, tire pressure monitor and, of course, OnStar.
 
The changes apply to both sedan and coupe models for the 2012 model year.
 
Read Article:  http://torontosun.autonet.ca/autos/search/newmodels/2011/07/22/18457611-autonet.html