If there is one thing host Jessi Lang loves, it’s a vehicle with a great engine under the hood. Luckily for Jessi, we recently tested the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V with its 6.2L supercharged V8 engine and GM’s Magnetic Ride Control…and let’s just say she had a great week.
The V8 in the CTS-V is paired to an automatic transmission that is surprisingly seamless and smooth in its shifting and buildup. The pairing produces a powerful 556 horsepower and 551 lb-ft of torque, doing 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds. The sporty personality of the V is mapped to sporty stopping power with quality Brembo brakes. The V offering for the CTS comes in RWD only but unlike the regular CTS coupe that offers 18″ wheels, the CTS-V comes with 19″ wheels.
Sadly, there are a few downsides to the CTS-V. The sub-par fuel economy, averaging 12 mpg city and 18 mpg highway, will get you slapped with the gas-guzzler tax on top of a starting price of $62,165 (as-tested price of $69,890). Then there are the blind spots that will take some adjustment time. For most buyers, they will deal with the blind spots and fuel economy to get in this beast. If you fall in to the aforementioned category and like the CTS-V but can’t swing the cost, you might want to consider the less powerful CTS Coupe that may differ under the hood but has the same interior and quiet cabin ride.