Cadillac CTS 3 .6L V-6 VVT engine

The 3.6L V-6 VVT debuted in the 2004 Cadillac CTS as an option. It is an all-aluminum, 60-degree dual overhead cam, four-valves-per-cylinder design. Like the 2.8L V-6, it has fully variable valve timing and a dual-stage variable intake manifold. The 3.6L V-6 develops 255 horsepower (190 kW) at 6200 rpm and 252 lb.-ft. (342 Nm) of torque at 3100 rpm.

Two transmissions

Cadillac CTS offers two transmissions available with either engine choice. The Aisin six-speed manual transmission, introduced in 2005, is fully synchronized (including reverse), with a single overdrive. This allows for lower propshaft speeds and improved noise, vibration and harshness.

The compact, state-of-the-art 5L40 five-speed automatic transmission features a full complement of advanced electronic control capabilities. These include a shift mode button that allows the driver to select between "sport," "winter" and "economy" modes. Another electronic feature also is a first for GM: engine braking in all five gears, giving the automatic the same sporty feel as a downshifting manual.


Dramatic design

The thoroughly modern Cadillac CTS is a contemporary expression of the striking designs that set Cadillac apart throughout its long history. Its lean, chiseled body features sheer forms, sharp edges and crisp intersecting lines.

Conventional Cadillac cues, including the grille and exterior lighting, have been updated for the CTS. Cadillac's traditional vertical headlamps and taillamps first appeared in 1965, and CTS refines the tradition. 2007 Cadillac CTS' integrated headlamps convey the high-tech image of optical instruments and high-end camera lenses. Thin and tall, they create more space for the large, louvered grille.

The interior blends luxurious amenities with a modern layout in keeping with CTS' sport sedan character. It uses warm, rich materials to contrast with a sophisticated, high-tech cockpit appearance, balancing the contemporary feel with touches of traditional luxury. Simulated wooden surfaces are used selectively on the steering wheel, shifter knob and door pulls.


Cadillac CTS comprehensive safety and security

2007 CTS has six air bags, including dual-stage frontal air bags for front-seat passengers. Head-curtain side air bags help protect front and outboard rear passengers. It also has Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) halogen headlamps, StabiliTrak and OnStar.

StabiliTrak assists the vehicle in maintaining the driver's intended path by applying a brake force at any corner of the vehicle independent of the driver's use of the brake pedal. StabiliTrak uses an accelerator pedal position sensor, a brake master cylinder pressure sensor and a steering wheel angle sensor as inputs to interpret the driver's desired path and whether to accelerate or decelerate the vehicle. StabiliTrak also uses these sensors plus a lateral accelerometer and yaw rate sensor to determine the vehicle's actual path.

If the difference between the driver's desired path and the vehicle's actual path becomes great enough, StabiliTrak automatically takes appropriate action to assist the driver with maintaining the desired path. If the vehicle begins to "snowplow," or understeer, StabiliTrak applies the inside rear brake to help turn the vehicle.

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