[TMNT]

We've talked about the G37, IS & ISF, C class, and many other cars comparable to the 3 series. But we hardly if ever talk about the upcoming 2008 CTS.

I must say that this car is a vast improvement over the previous generation both inside and out.

With an engine that produces 304hp out of a 6 cylinder and still uses 87 octane gasoline is a definate plus in my book. While I do not know the mpg for city and highway driving, I would imagine that is around 21/28 or better.

Has anyone else looked at this car? I think one in black would look badass. Will it out handle a 335 or G37? Probably not a chance in hell, but will it ride pretty damn nicely? No doubt.

A couple things I cannot understand why Cadillac would do it. First no push button start. Second no bluetooth......or at least that's what is seems like so far.

A couple things that are awesome:

The new CTS will get some of the suspension, steering, and braking from last years CTS-V.

It will also come with the Gracenote MusicID database. For those that don't know what it is google it and you'll be amazed.

6 speed manual will be available.

There will also be an all wheel drive version.

The CTS will also include LEDs from Visteon and will also sport one of the industry's first LED backup lights. Interior lights are awesome!

Concerns:

Starting price for the 304 hp engine is around 34K, but it seems that if you want options, you may be forced to get a huge package which could cost you as much as 8K like seen with the Lexus IS. It doesn't seem like you have an al la carte option like BMW.

Videos:

Running footage:

About the lights:

Edmunds video with nice close ups and detail:

Thoughts?

[e90owner1]

looks too much like a 300c

[MnK6]

Those long Cadillac Tail LED's makes me dizzy at nite.....hate them!

[gtb75]

I think if the handling is there (and that's a big if), then Cadillac might have a contender with the new CTS. The interior looks pretty good from what I saw at the Chicago Auto Show and the rest of the car isn't too bad either. What I'm really waiting to see is the new CTS-V... Will it really hit the market with 500HP??? If so, it'll be a tremendous value if it comes in at the price of the E90 M3 / RS4 / C63.

It's funny - everybody has been talking about the RS4, E92 M3, and C63 all having 400HP+ V8 motors... The CTS-V has had a 400HP V8 since 2004! Here's the Top Gear review of the old CTS-V:

While I'm definitely not saying that the old CTS-V is a match for any of the above mentioned cars, I am saying that the new CTS-V will probably be a real beast and worth a look.

[yu]

Originally Posted by TMNT

Running footage:

What a boring video. It's going like 15 mph.

[BeeEmDubU]

This is a definite upgrade over the predecessor. Theres also a feature that is kinda like Tivo for radio. You can pause/rewind live XM/FM/AM radio.

http://www.technoride.com/article/Th.../210451_1.aspx

[quagmire]

Cadillac has no true 3 series competitor. The CTS is the size of the 5 series now and intrudes on the STS. That will be fixed when the BLS comes over stateside riding the new RWD Alpha platform. The STS/DTS will switchover to GM's new global architecture Zeta which underpins the Camaro, G8, and upcoming Impala. STS or DTS nameplate will be killed. Or at least that is what is planned currently according to a GM site I go to. Talking 335i vs CTS with the 3.6 DI, 335i slaughters it. C&D got the CTS to 0-60 in 5.8 seconds. Which is a full second slower then the 4.8 seconds C&D got with the 335i. I haven't seen yet tests for the 535i, but estimates are mid to high 5 seconds for 0-60. So the CTS at least competes with that....

[!Xoible]

very cool lights!!! if this is production, it's HELLAA cool.

too bad it's still a cadillac.

[sflgator]

The '08 CTS definitely looks like a big improvement over the last gen. CTS with better electronics and driving characteristics; however, it's 3,800lb.+ weight makes it a bit on the slow side compared with its intended competitors, imho.

[younghov85]

Your not gonna find many positive things said about the CTS on this forum, or about any car as long as it doesnt carry a BMW badge on it. I think this car is gonna sell vastly as it will have the best warranty out of all mid-size sedans its up against. Also the interior is some of the best in its class, with hardly any plastic visible. It carries a larger cabin, a strong engine and is not an arm and a leg to maintain. I really hope this car is a success for Cadillac.

[younghov85]

I like what they did with the lighting. It makes sense as it gives the car a warm feel. Just as when kids go trick or treating, they only go to well lit homes as they give a welcoming feel. I think the interior lights will give a similar experience.