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2013 Cadillac ATS

Dave — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:39:31 +0000

(from Cadillac Press Release) 2013 Cadillac ATS Challenges the Status Quo

• All-new, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive architecture with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg)
• Broad lineup of engines, including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America, capitalizes on lightweight structure for performance with efficiency
• Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data

DETROIT – Cadillac today introduced the 2013 ATS, an all-new compact luxury sports sedan intended to challenge the world’s best premium cars. Developed on an all-new, lightweight vehicle architecture, Cadillac’s entry into the world’s most significant luxury car segment goes on sale this summer.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”

The Cadillac ATS is a new expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science execution philosophy, built on a foundation of driving dynamics and mass efficiency. It is the most agile and lightweight Cadillac, with one of the lowest curb weights in the segment – less than 3,400 pounds (1,542 kg).

Germany’s famed Nürburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with additional roads, racetracks and laboratories around the globe, ATS engineers balanced performance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement. Contributing components and features include:

• Nearly 50/50 weight balance
• Cadillac’s first five-link independent rear suspension using lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
• A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
• Driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension with Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping
• Underbody aerodynamic shields
• Premium (belt driven) electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
• Four-channel ABS with available Brembo performance brakes
• Available all-wheel drive

“More than just another new entry, the ATS aims to change the status quo of the European-dominated segment,” said Butler. “That is why our approach in all elements of its development is so extensive and focused.”

A broad lineup of engines – including two four-cylinders and a V-6 for North America – delivers strong power to the ATS and capitalizes on the car’s lightweight structure to complement its performance with efficiency. The optional engines include an all-new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW) and Cadillac’s award-winning 3.6L V-6, estimated at 320 horsepower (238 kW).

At 135hp/L, the new 2.0T is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry, topping engines from European competitors. ATS will offer both manual and automatic transmission options, along with rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations.

The ATS will deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg.

A spirit of lightness and balance

Making the ATS one of the segment’s lightest cars was a fundamental criterion for and the guiding principle during its development, but it was done in a nuanced manner that ensures a refined driving experience.

“Low weight gives the ATS a more nimble and controllable feel, while also optimizing the performance and efficiency of the powertrains,” said David Masch, ATS chief engineer. “But we were careful to manage the weight while maintaining Cadillac’s signature levels of refinement.”

Optimizing the ATS’s mass was the result of a four-pronged philosophy that included strict adherence to original architectural goals, measured load management throughout the vehicle, benchmarking components to see if lighter solutions were available and an overall culture that “weighed” the mass of every component in the car against all aspects of its development.

An aluminum hood, magnesium engine mount brackets and even lightweight, natural-fiber door trim panels contribute to the ATS’s low overall mass – and reflect the systematic approach of evaluating every gram that went into the car. But some weight was deemed not only beneficial, but essential to the ATS’s driving experience. An example is the cast iron differential: Engineers found they could improve fuel economy with a cast iron differential rather than a lighter aluminum version.

And while the rear suspension is mostly steel, the focus on load management and straight links enabled significant weight savings without using alternate materials. This helps offset the weight of the engine and transmission at the front of the vehicle, helping the ATS deliver its near-perfect 50/50 weight balance, while also contributing to lower noise and vibration. A similar approach was taken on the wheels, where extra structural aluminum was strategically added to further reduce vibration.

“We approached development by counting all the grams in the ATS,” said Masch. “We minimized them where we could and put them to the best use where they were needed.”

Tailored design weaves in signature style and refinement

The 2013 Cadillac ATS interprets Cadillac’s Art & Science design language in a new proportion, tailoring the signature styling and refinement cues for the most compact Cadillac while upholding – and advancing – the exemplary attention to detail and technological elements for which the brand is known.

A long, 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase and wide front/rear tracks are the cornerstones of the ATS’s firmly planted stance, which is enhanced by short overhangs and taut sheet metal that appears to wrap tightly around the tires. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard and 18-inch wheels are available.

Bold vertical lighting elements – including new LED front signature lighting detail – as well as illuminating door handles and active grille shutters lend technologically advanced style and function to the ATS. The grille shutters close at certain highway speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag and enhance fuel economy.

A driver-focused interior with integrated technology and crafted materials complements the exterior elements and supports the ATS’s driving experience. Everything from the placement of the pedals to the position of the shifter is designed for effortless and intuitive performance driving. Available performance seats have power-adjustable bolsters to optimize lateral support during high-load cornering.

Contributing to the interior’s intuitive feel is an instrument panel that wraps into the doors and a center stack in the mid-instrument panel that flows into the center console. LED lighting for the bold gauge cluster enables clear, at-a-glance viewing in all lighting conditions, while ambient lighting accents functional elements of the console and doors.

Real wood, plated metal plating and carbon fiber trim and Cadillac’s cut-and-sew instrument panel, console and doors enhance the emotional connection to the ATS. Choices of many interior color themes, each with unique accent trim material, cover a wide range of flavors – from light, open and warm to black and serious, to bold, technical and sporty.

CUE and ATS technologies

The ATS is offered with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data. It is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the “simple user” to the fully connected “super user.”

CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, pairs entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons. For example, most of today’s luxury cars have around 20 buttons controlling the radio and entertainment functions. CUE has only four.

The heart of CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, seamlessly integrated into the top of the central instrument panel and a motorized fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. The vibrant LCD screen displays CUE’s home page, which resembles a smart phone’s screen by using large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Capacitive technology refers to using electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger.

In addition to CUE, the ATS is offered with other technologies, including:

• Bluetooth phone connectivity with voice recognition
• USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription
• Keyless access and keyless push-button start
• Reconfigurable 5.7-inch instrument panel cluster display
• Full-color reconfigurable heads-up display.

The ATS is offered as a well-equipped standard model and in Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections. A Bose® Cabin Surround audio system is offered on the standard model, as well as Luxury and Performance Collections. It is standard with the Premium Collection. A navigation system is also available with Luxury and Performance Collections and standard with the Premium Collection.

‘Control and alert’ safety strategy

Safety in the ATS is based on Cadillac’s “control and alert” strategy that employs advanced technologies – including radar, cameras and ultrasonic sensors – to help prevent crashes.

The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards, and intervenes to help the driver avert potential crashes. In some cases, Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems will act without the driver, such as automatic braking, which will activate based on information indicating potential hazards.

Among the most sophisticated of the features is Front and Rear Automatic Brakes. This relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors to help the driver prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary.

Optional advanced safety features include:

• Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control
• Intelligent Brake Assist
• Forward Collision Alert
• Brake Pre-Fill Automatic Collision Preparation
• Lane Departure Warning
• Side Blind Zone Alert
• Rear Vision Camera With Dynamic Guidelines
• Adaptive Forward Lighting
• Hill Hold/Start Assist (Standard, manual transmission)

The advanced technology safety features complement the ATS’s roster of other safety features, including eight standard air bags (10 with optional features), safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS.

ATS also features OnStar standard for one year. It can use GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a crash. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information, controls and OnStar services via the customer’s iPhone or Android smart phone.

About Cadillac

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe Racecar

Dave — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 05:58:58 +0000

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(from GM Press Release) Cadillac Returns To Racing With CTS-V Coupe

Two teams set to compete in SCCA World Challenge GT Series

* Racecar based on award-winning CTS-V Series line
* Program designed to validate, enhance Cadillac performance
* Andy Pilgrim, Johnny O’Connell signed as Cadillac drivers

DETROIT – Cadillac announced today it will return to racing in 2011 with a race-prepared version of its CTS-V Coupe competing in the Sports Car Club of America World Challenge, North America’s top production-based racecar series.

The move returns Cadillac to a series where it competed from 2004 to 2007. Competing in the GT Class with the CTS-V Sport Sedan, Cadillac captured the Manufacturer’s Championship in 2005 and 2007 and the Driver’s Championship in 2005.

Cadillac will field two teams in the upcoming SCCA World Challenge GT Class with a racecar based on the CTS-V Coupe. The CTS-V line, which also includes the CTS-V Sedan and CTS-V Wagon, was recently named to Car and Driver magazine’s 10 Best list for 2011.

“Returning to racing in the SCCA World Challenge is a great way to demonstrate the performance and capability of the CTS-V Coupe,” said Don Butler, vice president for Cadillac marketing. “The racecars in this series are production based, which allows us to validate our performance against the best of our competitors on the track, and not just the showroom.”

Cadillac is working with Pratt & Miller, a New Hudson, Mich., engineering firm which specializes in motorsports, to develop the CTS-V Coupe racecar. While some of the production CTS-V components will be modified due to the unique demands of racing or to meet the SCCA series’ technical rules, every effort is taken to maintain as much production content as possible.

“The SCCA World Challenge lends itself well to a natural transfer of knowledge,” said Jim Campbell, GM vice president for Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “The series will become a key test-bed for Cadillac. We anticipate using what we learn on the racetrack to ensure the V-Series stays on the cutting-edge of performance.”

The first event in the SCCA World Challenge is March 25-27 in St. Petersburg, Fla. Johnny O’Connell, a three-time GT1 champion in the America Le Mans Series, and Andy Pilgrim, who won the 2005 SCCA World Challenge GT class in a Cadillac, will be behind the wheel of the CTS-V racecars.

Introduced for the 2003 model year, the CTS-V has quickly earned a reputation among luxury sports car buyers. For the 2011 model year, Cadillac added the CTS-V Coupe and the CTS-V Sport Wagon to the CTS-V Sport Sedan, creating an impressive family of performance vehicles. The CTS-Vs feature Brembo brakes, a supercharged 6.2L V8 delivering 556 horsepower and a Magnetic Ride Control suspension system that can read and react to the road 1,000 times a second.

Started in 1944, the SCCA organizes and supports racing at all levels from amateur to professional. The World Challenge series is designed to provide teams, manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers a competitive production-based race series in which to prove their products. The races follow a 50-minute maximum time limit, with the number of laps and total distance determined by track configuration, lap times and race conditions.

About Cadillac

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.

2011 Cadillac SRX

Dave — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 03:15:18 +0000

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(from GM Press Release) Cadillac SRX – 2011

• Standard Cadillac Premium Care Maintenance; covering scheduled oil changes, tire rotations, replacement of engine and cabin air filters and a multi-point vehicle inspection for four years or 50,000 miles
• Rear-vision camera standard across the collections (image projected in rearview mirror)
• Full keyless access standard on luxury and performance models
• Two exterior colors: Black Ice Metallic and Mocha Steel Metallic
• Powertrain calibration enhancements to improve acceleration feel on 3.0L models
• Cargo fence for U-rail system standard on all trim levels

2011 CADILLAC SRX

The Cadillac SRX offers a dynamic alternative in the mid-luxury crossover segment, with a dramatic design, efficient engine choices and a nimble driving experience. Although the second-generation SRX has only been on the market since 2010 (2009 CY), it has quickly gained a strong consumer following, rising rapidly to become one of the best-selling vehicles in its segment. The SRX receives several revisions for 2011, with a number of new features and modifications that make the vehicle even more refined, responsive and technologically advanced.

Customers now have increased access to the features they demand most, with expanded availability of the optional rear-vision camera system and keyless access feature. In addition, the cargo fence is standard on all the collections, allowing customers to leverage the SRX’s rear storage system. There are also two new exterior colors to choose from: Mocha Steel Metallic and the premium Black Ice Metallic.

SRX seats five and delivers generous occupant and cargo room; it can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg) when properly equipped. A 3.0L direct injected V-6 engine is standard and a 2.8L turbocharged V-6 is optional. Both employ advanced technology that helps produce strong performance that is typical of larger-displacement engines, but with greater fuel economy and lower emissions. SRX FWD models with the 3.0L engine are EPA-rated at 25 mpg on the highway.

Performance and safety are enhanced by an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. The pre-emptive, active-on-demand system provides an extra measure of capability in wet or icy conditions.

Design details

The SRX’s dynamic exterior features a dramatic diving gesture on the body side to impart the feeling of movement, even at rest. A multi-piece shield grille and Cadillac’s iconic vertical headlamps – with light pipe technology and available adaptive forward lighting – are the face of the SRX. They blend into a tightly wrapped, sweeping body that tapers downward at the rear of the vehicle, creating a sporty profile.

The SRX has a wide stance, minimal overhangs and wheels pushed to corners. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 20-inch wheels are offered. A bold accent line dives across the body side and culminates at a chrome front fender vent that incorporates a side marker lamp. An integrated spoiler on the rearward edge of the roof extends the sleek lines and improves aerodynamics.

An integrated center stack houses controls for climate and audio systems, while the navigation system rises from the center of the instrument panel. A signature example of the SRX’s attention to detail is the Cadillac script logos in the front door sill plates that illuminate when the doors are opened.

Advanced technology and entertainment systems

SRX features numerous advanced electronic systems. Highlights include a “pop-up” navigation screen in the dashboard with three-dimensional imaging, adaptive forward lighting that swivels the headlamps in synch with vehicle steering, power liftgate with programmable height setting, integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen system for rear entertainment.

Bluetooth compatibility is standard, as is OnStar’s Turn-by-Turn Navigation service for buyers who do not select the navigation system option.

For 2011, the SRX is equipped with ninth-generation OnStar technology. The flexible speech recognition system is now smart enough to interpret different sentences/phrases without actually hearing the exact 2-3 word commands from the user. For example, a subscriber who wants to place a call using the Hands Free Calling System simply says: “I would like to make a phone call” or “Need to make a phone call” instead of saying the exact “dial” or “call” command. The system will understand that the user wants to place a call and process that command. The system is capable of recognizing thousands of sentences that users may say.

Additionally, significant improvements have been made to OnStar’s flexible speech recognition system to allow it to better understand many regional dialects. This means that a subscriber in southern Louisiana will be just as easily understood as a subscriber in Long Island or Minnesota. OnStar engineers in North America and China performed extensive validation testing across four languages (English, French, Spanish and Mandarin), more than 30 different dialects and vehicle models in a wide range of driving and noise conditions.

Balanced performance and efficiency

The SRX is powered by a standard direct injected 3.0L V-6 that delivers 265 horsepower (198 kW) and has a six-speed automatic transmission. Direct injection results in more power, better fuel economy and lower emissions, all with a smaller-displacement package. The 3.0L engine uses variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It is paired with a Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control.

For 2011, powertrain calibrations have been made on the 3.0L V-6 models to improve acceleration feel. A 2.8L turbocharged V-6 is optional. It delivers an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW) under full boost, with the fuel economy of a smaller engine during lower-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising. An Aisin AF40 six-speed automatic transmission is matched with the 2.8L turbo and includes a driver-selectable “eco mode” that alters transmission shift points to maximize fuel economy.

Driving experience

The driving experience of the SRX blends the best elements of a sports sedan with the safety and excellent traction capability that crossover and SUV buyers value. One of its core elements is its advanced AWD system, featuring an electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD.) The eLSD enables the system to distribute torque from the front to rear axle, and also side-to-side, across the rear axle. Developed in partnership with Haldex, a leader in AWD technology, the system provides torque to the wheel with the most traction.

The advanced AWD system provides excellent traction in slippery conditions such as rain, snow or ice. In all conditions, the system bolsters other driving dynamics, such as cornering. The suspension includes an available, continuously variable real-time damping system in conjunction with AWD that delivers smooth ride quality by adjusting shock damping rates in response to road conditions. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, and 20-inch wheels are optional.

The SRX features standard rack-and-pinion hydraulic steering and an available variable effort, speed-sensitive steering system with tuning biased for sport sedan-style driving and strong on-center feel. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard.

Enhanced safety

The SRX is designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash. A strong body structure and chassis that absorb crash energy are complemented by martensitic steel in the fully enclosed rocker sections. Martensitic steel is one of the strongest available and its use in the rockers helps protect against intrusion during a side-impact crash while also helping maintain the structure during front and rear crashes.

Additional safety features include standard head curtain side air bags, standard front seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags, front safety belts with dual pretensioners and load limiters, rollover mitigation sensors, trailer stability assist and OnStar.

The SRX was also designed to meet European pedestrian protection standards; and the front bumper is positioned for greater compatibility with car bumpers.

About Cadillac

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered an historic renaissance led by artful engineering and global expansion.

2011 Cadillac CTS Sport Sedan

Dave — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 04:54:10 +0000

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(from GM Press Release) Cadillac CTS Sport Sedan – 2011

• Standard Cadillac Premium Care Maintenance; covers scheduled oil changes, tire rotations, replacement of engine and cabin air filters and a multi-point vehicle inspection for four years or 50,000 miles
• Rear-vision camera now available on sedan models; models without navigation include a rearview camera display in the rearview mirror
• Rear-vision camera now standard on CTS-V Sport Sedan
• Heated steering wheel available on CTS Sedan
• New fender vent design on all models
• New inside rearview mirror design
• New 19-inch all-season tire and wheel available on CTS AWD and RWD models
• New exterior colors: Carbon Flash Metallic and Evolution Green Metallic
• Ninth-generation OnStar technology, which includes significant improvements to the system’s voice recognition software

2011 CADILLAC CTS SPORT SEDAN

The Cadillac CTS is the cornerstone of the Cadillac product lineup and continues to play a vital role in the renaissance of the brand. The BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are the primary competitors for the CTS.

The CTS family grows in 2011 to include the CTS Coupe, in addition to the CTS Sport Wagon body style added in 2010 – including supercharged V-Series variants for all models. Please see the separate releases for detailed information on the CTS Coupe and CTS Sport Wagon.

The Cadillac CTS Sport Sedan’s signature exterior cues include vertically oriented “light pipes,” horizontal spline lines and a dihedral-shaped hood – characteristic elements of Cadillac’s Art & Science design language that have helped reinvent the brand in the 21st century.

CTS’ athletic form is characterized by sculpted fenders. They feature side air extractors that recall a styling element from Cadillac’s Sixteen concept car; as well as an available UltraView ”double” sunroof spanning both the front and rear seats.

Seven-spoke, 17-inch wheels or available nine-spoke, 18-inch wheels surround the CTS’ high-performance brake calipers and rotors. Both painted and machined finishes are available for the standard 17-inch wheels. The larger, 18-inch wheels are available in a premium multicoat finish or a high-polish finish.

In addition, a summer tire performance package is available on performance and premium trim levels of CTS. The package includes 19-inch polished aluminum wheels and Continental Conti SportContact2 summer tires, as well as unique performance suspension tuning and steering wheel shift controls when the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission.

The ’11 CTS lineup features the following new equipment:

• New front fender vent design with black inner fin detail
• Available rear-vision camera system, with a display located in the inside rearview mirror or – if equipped – in the navigation system
• Available heated steering wheel, which is included with ventilated seats and a wood-trimmed steering wheel on the performance trim level, when ordered with the performance luxury package and on the premium trim level
• Available 19-inch wheel and tire package with new all-season tires available on selected rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models.

The CTS-V Sport Sedan returns for ’11, offering a world-challenging combination of high performance and uncompromising luxury to serious driving enthusiasts.

Interior elements

The interior of the CTS emphasizes technical precision with elegant, hand-crafted details. An integrated center stack design – with a satin metallic finish – blends into the lower instrument panel that sweeps forward and away from front-seat occupants. The hand-assembled center console leads seamlessly into the center stack, providing a sportier “cockpit” feel for the driver and passenger without compromising space.

Available heated and ventilated seats incorporate “thin-seat” technology for maximum occupant comfort and enhanced rear-seat leg, knee and foot room. French stitching is used throughout the interior, including the upper instrument panel, door inserts, seats and the shifter boot.

The CTS incorporates the industry’s best attributes, advanced technologies and electronics, including:

• New rear-vision camera system
• Integrated iPod/MP3 capability
• Hard drive-based audio system
• Navigation system
• Adaptive forward lighting system
• Available Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Keyless Access and Smart Remote Start
• Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround™ audio system
• Ultrasonic park assist and more.

Efficient performance

Direct injection (DI) technology enables a great balance of performance and fuel economy. DI delivers fuel more precisely to increase the efficiency of combustion. This means less fuel is consumed and fewer emissions created; it also reduces cold-start emissions by up to 25 percent.

A 3.0L DI V-6 is the standard engine and is rated at 270 horsepower (201 kW). Along with direct injection technology, the 3.0L engine employs variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Highway fuel economy on 3.0L-equipped rear-wheel drive models is 28 mpg.

A 3.6L DI V-6 engine that produces 304 horsepower (227 kW) is available. Both engines balance performance and efficiency while operating on regular unleaded gas – many competitors to the CTS require premium fuel. Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmissions back both engines.

Driving experience

The CTS chassis enables a great balance of performance and luxury. The hardware includes structural enhancements via a tower-to-tower brace; large, four-wheel disc brakes and a ZF steering rack. Four suspension tuning packages are available: base, performance (standard on 3.6L models and optional on 3.0L models), 19-inch performance all-season and the summer tire performance package with a summer-only 19-inch tire (RWD only).

All models feature an independent short/long arm (SLA) front suspension system, with performance characteristics optimized with low-mass aluminum for the upper and lower control arms, as well as the knuckles. A multi-link rear suspension, with a fully isolated subframe that delivers excellent kinematics, contributes to a superior ride with excellent handling. The CTS also features advanced chassis technology in the form of Cadillac’s StabiliTrak electronic chassis control system. It is integrated with the car’s standard four-channel ABS with the full-function traction control, as well as the hydraulic brake assist and engine control systems.

Safety features

CTS is designed to enhance Cadillac’s reputation for providing safe occupant environments in luxury vehicles. Details include:

• Dual-stage driver front air bag
• Segment-first dual depth front passenger air bag
• Driver and front passenger side seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags
• Roof-rail side curtain air bags with industry-first rollover protection technology that cover front and rear seating rows
• Front safety belt pretensioners
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Body structure with strategically placed high-strength steel
• Active head restraints for front seat occupants.

As with other Cadillac models, the 2011 CTS comes with the ninth generation of OnStar hardware, which now offers more flexible speech recognition, as well as Automatic Crash Response and Turn-by-Turn Navigation.

About Cadillac

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered an historic renaissance led by artful engineering and global expansion.

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Sedan

Dave — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 04:37:19 +0000

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(from GM Press Release) Cadillac CTS-V Sedan – 2011

• Standard Cadillac Premium Care Maintenance; covers scheduled oil changes, tire rotations, replacement of engine and cabin air filters and a multi-point vehicle inspection for four years or 50,000 miles
• Rear-vision camera now available on sedan models; models without navigation include a rearview camera display in the rearview mirror
• Rear-vision camera now standard on CTS-V Sport Sedan
• Heated steering wheel available on CTS Sedan
• New fender vent design on all models
• New inside rearview mirror design
• New 19-inch all-season tire and wheel available on CTS AWD and RWD models
• New exterior colors: Carbon Flash Metallic and Evolution Green Metallic
• Ninth-generation OnStar technology, which includes significant improvements to the system’s voice recognition software

CTS-V Sport Sedan details

The CTS-V Sport Sedan has quickly established itself among the world’s highest performing luxury sedans, becoming the first production four-door on street tires to break the legendary eight-minute barrier at Germany’s famed Nürburgring.

It is powered by a supercharged 6.2L V-8 that delivers 556 horsepower (415 kW) and is backed by either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. A suite of technical and performance elements complement the powertrain, including Magnetic Ride Control, Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 performance tires mounted on 19-inch forged aluminum wheels.

A unique grille that doubles front-end airflow to help enable its high-performance capabilities is one of the V-Series’ distinguishing features, along with an aggressive front fascia and raised center section of the aluminum hood that provides clearance for the supercharger. It rides on 19-inch forged aluminum wheels available in silver painted or polished finishes.

Supercharged performance

The 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine powers the CTS-V is rated at 556 horsepower (415 kW) and 551 lb.-ft. of torque (747 Nm). It is the most powerful engine offered in Cadillac’s history.

The engine features an intercooled Eaton Twin Vortices Series™ (TVS™) supercharger. This unique supercharger design employs twin four-lobe rotors, twisted 160 degrees. Typical superchargers feature three lobes twisted 60 degrees. The fourth lobe and added twist, when combined with unique air inlet and outlet ports, create smoother, more efficient airflow into the engine. In addition to improved overall efficiency, this supercharger has superior noise and vibration characteristics compared to more ordinary designs.

A pair of six-speed transmissions is offered in the CTS-V Sport Wagon – a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual with a dual-disc clutch and a Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted shift controls. The steering wheel-mounted controls require no shift lever movement and allow immediate tap up/tap down gear selection. Performance Algorithm Shifting provides the automotive transmission with a performance-oriented shift pattern during sustained high-performance driving. As with many Cadillac models, the driver needs only to slide the shifter into the manual “gate” to put the transmission into a performance mode.

Torque is channeled through the six-speed transmissions to a high-performance rear axle that features a limited-slip rear differential within a cast iron housing for greater thermal management and asymmetrical half-shafts to smoothly manage the supercharged engine’s incredible torque. The unique design includes alternately sized half-shafts that also help dynamically balance the oscillation of torque from side to side, effectively eliminating “power hop.”

Magnetic Ride Control, Brembo brakes and Michelin PS2 tires

The V-Series achieves exceptional levels of road-holding performance, but also maintains the poise of a luxury car in “regular” driving conditions. The technical enabler of this dual-mode driving character is Cadillac’s landmark Magnetic Ride Control. It is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology. It uses shocks controlled by advanced magneto-rheological technology, rather than mechanical valves, to greatly accelerate response time and precision. Electronic sensors at all four wheels literally “read the road” every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create virtually instantaneous and extremely precise control of body motions.

The Magnetic Ride shocks also enable a broader range of damping control to optimize the ride and handling for all driving conditions. In the CTS-V, an extra measure of control is offered, with two selectable modes (Tour and Sport), enabling the driver to tailor the suspension for grand touring or more spirited performance driving.

The CTS-V also incorporates sophisticated braking and tire systems, in partnership with two companies renowned for high-performance technology: Brembo and Michelin. Brembo brakes are at all four corners and include powerful, six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear.

Large, vented rotors enable strong initial braking force while optimizing heat resistance and eliminating fade. The brake rotors from Brembo are manufactured with “dual-cast” technology that combines cast iron and aluminum, resulting in superior performance and weight reduction.

Michelin partnered with Cadillac engineers to develop an exclusive Pilot Sport PS2 tire specifically engineered for the CTS-V. The tires support high levels of grip in track conditions, while also affording excellent performance on the road.

Comfort, style and technology

The interior of the CTS-V features streamlined instrumentation, LED lighting and hand-cut-and-sewn accents. It includes performance seats featuring perforated sueded microfiber inserts designed to hold the driver and front passenger in place during cornering. Recaro performance driving seats are optional and provide excellent support for spirited driving. These 14-way adjustable performance seats include pneumatic bolster controls in the seat cushions and backrests.

Complementing the performance seating are a thick steering wheel and a gauge package designed for easy, at-a-glance reference during performance driving. Large instruments have bold readouts, including an LED-lit “tracer” function in the tachometer that flashes as the engine nears the red line. The gauge layout includes a boost gauge and a lateral acceleration display.

Obsidian Black accents grace the center stack, console, steering wheel and door panels. The production steering wheel and shifter are available in Alcantara, providing the luxurious character of suede. These accents are elegant to the touch and aid the driver during high-performance driving.

About Cadillac

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered an historic renaissance led by artful engineering and global expansion.

2011 Cadillac DTS

Dave — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 04:13:17 +0000

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(from Cadillac Press Release) Cadillac DTS – 2011

Cadillac DTS extends its heritage of technologically advanced luxury and leading safety into 2011, including the DTS Platinum Edition that adds premium features and special paint options to its hand-crafted elegance.

Among the DTS’ advanced safety features are Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone Alert. Lane Departure Warning uses a camera to provide visual and audible alerts in the event of an inadvertent lane change. Side Blind Zone Alert extends driver vision, using radar sensors to detect objects adjacent to the car in a driver’s traditional “blind spot.”

Like all Cadillac models, DTS now includes standard Cadillac Premium Care Maintenance, covering scheduled oil changes, tire rotations, replacement of engine and cabin air filters and multi-point vehicle inspections for four years or 50,000 miles. The 2011 DTS also debuts ninth generation OnStar technology, which includes significantly improved voice recognition capabilities.

DTS Platinum

The DTS Platinum returns for 2011, offering a distinctly higher level of premium luxury, with bright chrome details including 18-inch chrome wheels, chrome grille, chrome inserts on the exterior door handle lift bars, and an exclusive Platinum badge. It features the Northstar 4.6L V-8 engine, rated at 292-horsepower (218 kW)*, and other performance-oriented features such as Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Algorithm shifting.

The DTS interior is distinguished by subtle details that complement each other to create a luxurious and inviting environment. A choice of two unique interiors, Light Linen over Cocoa and all-Ebony, are complemented by light ash burl wood with decorative inlay, Tuscany full leather upholstery, French seams on the door panel inserts and hand-cut-and-sewn leather on the instrument panel top pad, console and door trim.

This extensive luxury package extends underfoot and even to the trunk, with unique floor mats and a richer trunk mat made of upgraded materials. A sunroof and DVD navigation system are standard, as is LED interior ambient footwell lighting.

A handcrafted, leather-wrapped heated steering wheel with authentic light ash burl wood and chrome rings – as well as chrome appointments, Alcantara headliner and visors, and an illuminated Platinum badge on the door sill plate – complete the package.

DTS-L

Based on the DTS livery sedan, the DTS-L is a long-wheelbase model that provides a great choice for executive transport customers and those who seek more privacy in the rear passenger area. It is eight inches (315 mm) longer than the standard DTS (extension completed by a certified Cadillac Master Coachbuilder) and, with the added length inserted behind the rear doors, provides an executive privacy seating position. The rear-seat passengers are concealed behind the C-pillar, rearward of the side windows.

The DTS-L is equipped with the 275-horsepower (205 kW) 4.6L Northstar V-8 engine and is available with most of the DTS’ luxury features, including heated and cooled driver and passenger front seats with memory settings; heated rear outboard seats; rear four-way power lumbar controls and adjustable headrests; Adaptive Remote Start; OnStar; XM Satellite Radio; DVD navigation and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Lane Departure Warning system

The Lane Departure Warning system uses a camera located between the inside rearview mirror and the windshield to detect lane markings on the road and alert drivers when they inadvertently stray from the lane.

When the Lane Departure Warning System is engaged, a driver traveling at 35 mph or more who crosses a detected lane marking without signaling is alerted in two ways: The system’s telltale light flashes amber, and an alerting sound of three beeps is played. The system is designed to alert drivers so they can take appropriate action to move the vehicle back into the lane.

A distinguishing feature of Cadillac’s lane departure system over competitive systems is its telltale light with the “LDW” symbol that indicates whether the system is ready to assist the driver. If the light is green, the system is able to detect lane markings and provide alerts. If the light is off, it will not. To avoid nuisance alerts, the system is designed to not provide an alert if the turn signal is on or if the driver makes a sharp maneuver.

Side Blind Zone Alert system

Side Blind Zone Alert uses radar sensors behind the rear fascia on both sides of the vehicle that signal an audible and visual alert if objects are detected in “blind zones.” The outside rearview mirrors feature turn signal LEDs and bold Side Blind Zone Alert icons.

Alternating radar beams in GM’s Side Blind Zone Alert system “sweep” adjacent areas, covering a zone of about one lane over from both sides of the vehicle, or 11 feet (3.5 m). The zone starts at each side mirror and goes back about 16 feet (5 m).

When the system is engaged, a driver will know that following vehicles in the adjacent lanes are entering the side blind zone when an amber symbol, located in the outside rearview mirror, is illuminated. The system is not designed to detect vehicles outside of the side blind zone that may be rapidly approaching, or detect pedestrians, bicyclists or animals. It’s designed to ignore infrastructure such as fire hydrants or parked cars. In addition, the system displays do not come on while the vehicle is approaching or passing other vehicles.

Powertrain details

The DTS is equipped with the technologically advanced Northstar 4.6L V-8 engine and mated to the Hydra-Matic 4T80 four-speed automatic transmission – a proven combination that assures powerful, sophisticated performance.

The Northstar 4.6L V-8 engine is available in two configurations: the 292-horsepower (218 kW)* L37 and the 275-horsepower (205 kW)* LD8. The L37 version is responsive, with more peak horsepower. The LD8 puts more emphasis on quick launch and part-throttle response with greater peak torque.

Refined chassis and Magnetic Ride Control

The DTS chassis combines performance and luxury capabilities to a degree never before reached on a full-size Cadillac sedan. Chassis tuning on the four-wheel independent suspension system achieves a smooth, quiet, refined ride. The DTS features a front cradle design, with the engine mounted to the cradle, and the cradle mounted to the body rails.

Integrated chassis control technologies include four-channel anti-lock brakes and traction control, four-channel StabiliTrak with Brake Assist, and Magnetic Ride Control (MRC). It is the world’s fastest reacting suspension, controlling body motions to a precise degree.

MRC provides electronically controlled, magnetic-fluid based real-time damping. It uses four wheel-to-body displacement sensors to measure wheel motion over the road surface and responds by adjusting the shock damping at speeds approaching one millisecond.

The system’s secret is the magneto-rheological fluid contained in its dampers, replacing traditional mechanical valves. Suspended in this fluid are tiny iron particles that respond to an electromagnetic charge. A revised piston profile introduced in 2008 improves damping capability and decreases shock temperatures, resulting in improved ride and handling.

Comfort, convenience and security features

The DTS is loaded with a broad range of helpful feature that enhance comfort, convenience and security. The features included:

• Heated and cooled front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Standard dual-zone climate control on base packages and standard tri-zone climate control on uplevel packages
• Factory-installed Adaptive Remote Start with personalization
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Power folding outside rearview mirrors
• Front and rear ultrasonic park assist
• IntelliBeam automatic high-beam headlamps
• In-dash six-CD changer and MP3 player
• Radar-based adaptive cruise control (ACC) with audible and visual alerts
• DVD navigation system
• Safety features

The DTS is equipped with a host of safety and security features, beginning with its body frame integral (BFI) construction; strategically engineered crumple zones in front and rear; and comprehensive use of high-strength steel. The vehicle’s crashworthiness is enhanced with structural foam and nylon structural inserts strategically placed in areas of the vehicle’s structure.

The DTS has six standard air bags, including an industry-first dual depth front passenger air bag and GM’s passenger sensing system. The GM co-patented technology deploys either a small or large air bag depending upon crash severity, seat belt usage and seat position. Additional standard features include a dual-stage driver frontal air bag, roof-rail curtain air bags, and front-seat side-impact thorax air bags.

As with other Cadillac models, all 2011 DTS models are now equipped with ninth-generation OnStar technology. The flexible speech recognition system interprets different sentences or phrases without actually hearing the exact two-to-three-word commands from the user.

For example, a subscriber who wants to place a call using the Hands Free Calling System simply says: “I would like to make a phone call” or “Need to make a phone call” instead of saying the exact “dial” or “call” command. The system will understand that the user wants to place a call and process the command. The system is capable of recognizing thousands of sentences that users may say.

Additionally, significant improvements have been made to the flexible speech recognition system to allow it to better understand many regional dialects. This means that a subscriber in southern Louisiana will be just as easily understood as a subscriber in Long Island or Minnesota. OnStar engineers in North America and China performed extensive validation testing across four languages (English, French, Spanish and Mandarin), more than 30 different dialects and vehicle models in a wide range of driving and noise conditions.

About Cadillac

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered an historic renaissance led by artful engineering and global expansion.

CTS-V Coupe vs. Shelby GT500

Dave — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 07:14:18 +0000

We have seen the new CTS-V on the track with several other cars including the BMW M3 and Audi RS5. Road & Track has brought the 550-horsepower 2011 Shelby GT500 out to play as well against the 556-horsepower Cadillac. Watch the video to see what happens.

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

Dave — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 06:56:14 +0000

We all know the Cadillac CTS is a beauty on its own. This new world-class sleek design is very appealing and can perform as well. The 304-horsepower, direct-injection 3.6-liter V6 found under the hood of the standard Coupe is pretty capable on its own. For those of you wanting a little more power and a little tweek to the design, take a look at the CTS-V.

The 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe has a supercharged V8 that makes 556 horsepower and comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard equipment all for under $65,000. With all this power you also get whats expected in a fully loaded luxury Cadillac.

What should you expect in the V version? As far as appearance, you can see a bulgier hood, sharper front grille, larger fog-light surrounds, and dual centered exhaust tips. The sedan’s 19-inch wheels wrapped in low-profile Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires (255/40-series up front, 285/35 out back) also come on the Coupe. For some serious stopping power you can see the same large brakes, 15-inches up front and 14.7-inches in the rear.

With all these outstanding features we have also noticed some setbacks as well. The raked rear window and abnormally large C-pillar make for obnoxious blind spots. Cadillac responded to this by saying they lowered the seat height by two inches to compensate for the shorter roofline. But still, we find it hard to believe that effected any of the visibility.

The CTS-V wears the same interior that you would expect to find in the standard CTS. Some argue the interior could use a little work for a pricetag of over $60,000, although it still seems to be very sleek and clean in the dash and instrument panel.

But for the CTS-V we can tell where the major improvements were focused on. With 556 horses beating under the hood we are sure you won’t be too worried about touching all the little gadgets. For transmissions, you get an option of a Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic transmission or Tremec TR6060 manual transmission. The automatic transmission features the modern paddle shifters but we are finding that these are not the best in design or ergonomics. We would recommend the 6 speed manual transmission if you are really looking to get a handle on 556 horses.

To quote the reviewers at autoblog, “The CTS-V Coupe’s acceleration is simply staggering, and with your foot pressed to the floor, you’ll hit 60 miles per hour just before “four Mississippi” escapes your lips. Asking the rear wheels to distribute 556 horsepower and 551 pound-feet of twist is a big task, and you can easily squeal the tires from every stop, even with traction control fully engaged. It’s all in good fun, though as we like a car that bites back. The engine and exhaust noise emitted under hard acceleration further stimulates the thrill of full-throttle thrust, especially since there’s a split second in which you only hear the roar of the 6.2-liter LSA V8 before the supercharger finishes spooling. Just as you start to take in the grumble from that fierce piece of all-American aluminum muscle, the supercharger’s whine takes over; the two noises playing together in symphonic harmony”.

The CTS-V is a little chunky weighting in at 4,237 pounds with the automatic transmission. This is in consideration of the added 1.6 inches of width along with the Magnetic Ride Control suspension setup. With a performance car like this it is highly likely you will see a sport mode. This mode engages the Magnetic Ride Control, damping rates are adjusted every millisecond, and the transmission keeps you in the powerband throughout a turn. Power is always available when you need it. 556 horsepower is maxed at around 6,100 PRM but the 551 lb-ft of torque will kick in at 3,800 RPM.

The V Coupe’s 54/46 front/rear weight distribution helps to eliminate any sort of nose-heavy, understeer-prone tendencies optimizing the coupes handling performance. For you drift kings the CTS-V comes with a button to turn off traction control so you can burn through those low-profile tires even quicker. Get a little too scared and the six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembos will provide ample and easily modulated stopping power.

The CTS-V coupe wears a pricetag of $62,990 which is about $1,000 over the sedan. Not a bad deal for a machine like this.

[Source: autoblog]

Cadillac Introduces CTS-V Coupe, Promises V or Platinum Trim Across The Board

Peter — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 07:34:38 +0000

The Cadillac CTS-V coupe debuted in Detroit today, along with more “V” related news from Cadillac. The 3 siblings of the CTS family are expected to be available with V capabilities eventually. Although it wasn’t specifically promised at the debut, the autobolg writers are convinced the Sport Wagon will be included. Other models in the Cadillac lineup will get a Platinum package, which is geared more towards luxury amenities rather than track performance.

Also debuting today is the XTS sedan. This is expected to become Cadillac’s flagship sedan and possibly replace the STS and DTS. It will be a combination of Cadillac’s newer design and styling signature and the brands ability to compete with the upscale features and performance of European luxury cars.

Source: autoblog CTS-V Coupe, XTS

Image Gallery: Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

Madison — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 09:46:44 +0000

The CTS-V coupe will be premiering early this year on the show circuit. The performance/luxury two-door has been spiffed up with a mesh grill, widened race tires, new chrome exhaust, heavy-duty Brembo brakes, and GM’s stabilizing ride control. 556 hp is provided thanks to a supercharged 6.2 L V-8, attached to either a 6-spd. manual or automatic transmission. 1959 cadillac for sale