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| 2003-09-08 | ||
September 2003
Frankfurt. The Cadillac CTS is entering the new model year with an even cozier interior and an upgraded standard equipment package. All versions of the performance sedan are now fitted with wood trim, as well as power-adjustable lumbar supports for driver and front passenger. The console on the transmission tunnel is now even better color-coordinated to the rest of the interior. The ergonomic revamping work extended to the cabin; cruise control is now operated via the left-hand control stalk. The new CTS model generation can be visually identified by the body-color rear license plate frame. Of course, the dynamic design with bold, accented contours and the distinctive, chiseled form is in any case unmistakable. Distinctive design cues include vertical headlamps and taillamps, a V-shaped front that tapers into the classic Cadillac grille with mesh cover and prominent wreath and crest logo and a dramatic, rising shoulder line that refracts the light. The rear-wheel-drive sedan is powered by two modern V6 engines with 2.6 and 3.2-liter capacities and respective outputs of 133 kW/181 hp and 160 kW/218 hp at 6000 rpm. The longitudinally mounted engines are mated with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic with a torque converter clutch. The newcomer meets the particular standards of performance that drivers expect from a premium-class vehicle. The CTS 3.2 reaches a top speed of 238 kph and makes the sprint from zero to 100 kph in just 7.4 seconds (automatic box: 7.7 s). The CTS 2.6 is 223 kph fast and needs 9.3 seconds (automatic box: 9.7 s) to accelerate to 100 kph. The high standards of driving response and ride comfort are particularly evident in the meticulously developed chassis of the Cadillac CTS. The front features dual A-arms with coil springs. Cornering and directional stability are impeccable thanks to the five-link rear axle, which is separated from the body for enhanced interior acoustics. A hydraulic leveling system compensates for varying loads. Further advanced features of the Cadillac CTS chassis include optionally available next-generation electronic stability enhancement, StabiliTrak, which helps keep the vehicle on track by adjusting brake application on all four wheels. The CTS is also right up to date in terms of passive safety; front airbags for driver and front passenger, two side bags and roof-mounted curtain bags are standard-fitted. Thanks to the relatively long 2.88-meter wheelbase, the 4.83-meter-long CTS is distinguished by ample interior space. In classic Cadillac style, all five passengers have a wide range of luxury features at their disposal. The base version already comes with a package including dual-zone climate control, leather seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, steering wheel controls, power windows all-round, cruise control, trip computer, Bose sound system with a built-in CD player as well as an in-dash six CD changer. A DVD-based navigation system with a large screen and TV reception is available as an extra. | ||
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