The 2017 Cadillac CTS-V super sedanis the third generation of the acclaimed luxury performance sedan that launched the brand’s elite V-Series a decade ago and redefined Cadillac for a new generation of drivers.
After a sold-out 2016 model year, the 2017 Cadillac CTS-V adds a Carbon Black sport package, available Rear Camera Mirror, and upgrades and enhancements for the Cadillac CUE infotainment system. The enhanced Cadillac CUE includes new standard technologies like the myCadillac Mobile App, Teen Driver and Cadillac Collection.
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
Leveraging the strength of the award-winning rear-wheel drive architecture that also underpins the Cadillac ATS, Cadillac ATS Coupe, Cadillac ATS-V Sedan and Coupe, Cadillac CTS sedan and Cadillac CTS V-Sport, the 2017 Cadillac CTS-V super sedan delivers the most capable V-Series ever – a luxury sedan with sophisticated road manners and unprecedented performance, with true track capability straight from the factory.
Key features include:
- A supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine mated to a paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission
- Standard carbon fiber hood and available carbon fiber package, including carbon fiber splitter, hood vent, rear spoiler and rear diffuser for greater aerodynamic performance
- Brembo high-performance brake system developed to provide durability, consistency and the capability for track-day performance straight from the factory
- Segment-best, third-generation Magnetic Ride Control delivering 40-percent faster damping response
- Driver-selectable driving modes for touring, sport, snow and track
- Segment-exclusive, racing-derived Performance Traction Management system with five additional modes allowing the driver to select the level of desired system assistance, matched for driver skill or road condition
- Launch Control enabling full-throttle acceleration from a stop for maximum performance
- Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer-only tri-compound tires offer excellent grip with extended tire wear
- Available segment-exclusive Performance Data Recorder enabling drivers to record, view and analyze driving experiences by capturing real-time video, cabin audio and performance data
- An interior with high-performance seats and ergonomics offering a driver-focused interface with carbon fiber trim and sueded microfiber accents
Engine and transmission – Immediate and relentless power
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
The 2017 Cadillac CTS-V super sedan is powered by a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine SAE certified at 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 630 lb-ft of torque (855 Nm). With more horsepower and torque than the Mercedes-Benz 5.5L biturbo V-8 and the BMW M-series 4.4L TwinPower (twin-turbo) V-8, the new CTS-V is capable of 0-60 performance in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph.
The supercharged V-8 engine makes more power more efficiently than the previous Cadillac supercharged engine. It employs a more-efficient, more-compact 1.7L supercharger and matches it with direct injection and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation).
The supercharger’s rotors are smaller in diameter than the previous supercharged engine, allowing higher maximum rpm – and quicker “spin up” that enables power-enhancing boost to be generated earlier in the rpm band. That boost is achieved more efficiently via a more direct discharge port that creates less turbulence, reducing heat and speeding airflow into the engine.
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
The Cadillac supercharged engine also has several unique features designed to support its high output and the greater cylinder pressures created by forced induction, including Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads that are stronger and handle heat better than conventional aluminum heads, and lightweight titanium intake valves.
The paddle-shift eight-speed automatic, which offers full manual control via steering wheel paddles, is tuned for world-class shift-response times. Smaller steps between gears keep the engine within the optimum range of the rpm band, making the most of the output of the supercharged engine for exhilarating performance and greater efficiency.
Performance Algorithm Shifting delivers shift performance that rivals the dual-clutch/semi-automatic transmissions found in many luxury performance sedans but with the smoothness and refinement that come with a conventional automatic fitted with a torque converter.
CTS-V driving experience – Class-leading capability on the highway or track, balanced with luxury and refinement
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
The Cadillac CTS-V super sedan’s track-honed design, chassis and suspension elements complement the supercharged powertrain, providing true track capability, performance and driver control without modifications or special procedures.
With more than a decade of V-Series production models and the Cadillac Racing program experience, Cadillac has engineered the third-generation Cadillac CTS-V super sedan to deliver greater body motion control for a more agile feel, while maintaining excellent ride quality. The CTS-V incorporates unique performance elements, components from world-class performance automotive suppliers and segment-leading, company-exclusive technology.
The Cadillac CTS-V super sedanshares the same 114.6-inch (2,910 mm) wheelbase as the CTS non-V-Series models, but features wider front and rear footprints that enhance grip, reduce body motion in turns and contribute to more direct-feeling steering. The ZF Steering Systems electric power steering features 14-percent greater system stiffness for a feeling of precision and greater driver feedback.
Nineteen-inch wheels wrapped with specially developed Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer-only tires give the Cadillac CTS-V its footprint and enable nearly 1g in lateral acceleration. The lightweight, forged aluminum wheels – measuring 9.5 inches wide in the front and 10 inches wide in the rear – are constructed of a low-mass forging that helps reduce un-sprung weight for greater agility and a more direct feel to steering inputs.
In fact, the wheels are 45-percent stiffer than previous Cadillac CTS-V wheels, while the Michelin tires feature a tri-compound tread that delivers excellent grip in performance driving situations, excellent ride quality characteristics and extended tread wear.
A Brembo brake system provides durability, consistency and the capability for track-day performance. The system includes 15.3-inch-diameter (390 mm) front Duralife rotors with staggered six-piston calipers and 14.3-inch-diamter (365 mm) rear Duralife rotors with four-piston calipers.
Segment-best, third-generation Magnetic Ride Control “reads” the road a thousand times per second, sending data to magneto-rheological fluid-filled dampers that can independently control the damping characteristics of all four dampers. Third-generation improvements enable 40-percent faster damping response. In fact, at 60 mph, the third-generation Magnetic Ride Control system calculates the optimal damping force for every inch of the road.
Segment-exclusive Performance Traction Management (PTM) software was derived from the championship-winning Cadillac Racing program for the V-Series and implements appropriate measures of electronic assistance, matched for driver skill or road condition. Five driver-selectable modes specifically for the track – Wet, Dry, Sport 1, Sport 2 and Race – provide progressive levels of electronic assistance, adjusting traction and stability controls. The standard electronic limited-slip differential translates the PTM software to optimal traction and enables maximum corner exit acceleration. Automatically activated in all five PTM modes, Launch Control manages tire spin to optimize full-throttle acceleration from a standing start.
Developed to respond to cornering and torque loads that go significantly beyond the levels experienced by the non-V models, the super sedan is almost 20% stiffer to meet high performance demands.
Unique and revised elements include:
- Shock tower-to-tower brace
- Shock tower-to-plenum brace
- V-braces for the engine compartment
- Strengthened rocker bulkhead
- Stronger rear cradle-to-rocker braces
- A unique aluminum shear panel at the front of the chassis
- Upper tie bar-to-rear bumper braces.
A revised multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension delivers a quicker response and increased lateral control, incorporating “hydro” bushings, where traditional elastomeric bushings are replaced with zero-compliance cross-axis ball joints, higher-rate springs and a stiffer stabilizer bar – for 20-percent greater roll stiffness
Cadillac’s five-link rear suspension features reduced roll center migration, stronger lateral control and effective anti-squat geometry, complementing the front suspension with greater body motion control. Contributing components include stiffer bushings, new cradle mounts, higher-rate springs and a stiffer stabilizer bar. Larger prop shafts and greater half-shaft asymmetry (stiffer driver’s side shaft) mitigate power hop during acceleration
Technology and Connectivity – technology upgrades for an enhanced, more connected ride
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
Cadillac CUE – the centerpiece of the Cadillac CTS-V’s comprehensive collection of technologies – including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto advanced smartphone integration and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot – receives upgrades and enhancements for 2017. New standard technologies have been added, including the myCadillac Mobile App, Teen Driver and Cadillac Collection.
The standard 13-speaker Bose® Surround Sound system features Centerpoint 2.0® surround technology, enabling listeners to enjoy an immersive sound experience from nearly any stereo source. This includes electronic sound enhancement that amplifies the car’s authentic powertrain sounds, as opposed to other manufacturers’ systems that pipe in recorded engine noises. The premium sound system also includes Bose Audio Pilot, which continuously monitors ambient sounds and adjusts the music volume and program content to optimize the listening experience.
The heart of Cadillac CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, integrated into the top of the central instrument panel. Cadillac CUE’s vibrant LCD screen resembles a smartphone’s screen, with large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Upgrades and enhancements in 2017 include in-vehicle apps via Cadillac Collection, partial name recognition, display of Advanced Park Assist, and Wi-Fi signal strength.
Cadillac CUE connectivity and convenience features also include Text Message Alerts for smartphone users with Bluetooth profile (M.A.P.) and Siri Eyes Free for iPhone. Each enables voice-controlled connectivity, helping to keep phones stored and hands on the wheel. Wireless phone charging is standard.
The enhancement to the Cadillac CUE system includes the introduction of in-vehicle apps available through Cadillac Collection. Similar to iTunes and Google Play Store, customers can access Collection and personalize their in-vehicle experience the same way they do with their smartphones. Apps downloaded from Collection are fully embedded in the infotainment system, enabling a true integrated user experience. Apps are not dependent on a phone and provide a deeper integration with the car’s features and its performance.
The introduction of Collection serves as a framework that allows the vehicle and ownership experience to get better over time. Apps can be seamlessly and intuitively downloaded to the vehicle utilizing an embedded OnStar 4G LTE connection. These apps can be automatically updated as new versions become available. Apps designed to enhance the driving experience will be added or updated over time and include popular music services, weather, news, and more.
Complementing Cadillac CUE to enhance the Cadillac CTS-V’s connectivity is OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot. OnStar 4G LTE provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected. The hotspot is activated whenever the vehicle is on and comes with a three-month/three-gigabyte data trial. 4G LTE is the most current and fastest mobile data network – 10 times faster than 3G. Additionally, OnStar 4G LTE offers stronger, broader coverage than do smartphones on the same network.
At the time of purchase, six months OnStar Guidance includes all of OnStar’s advisor-based safety and security features, including Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Assistance, as well as Turn-by-Turn navigation.
Cadillac owners can also opt-in to keep their vehicle connected at no cost for five years through the OnStar Basic Plan, including:
- OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics, which runs monthly checks of a vehicle’s engine, transmission, anti-lock brakes and more
- Dealer Maintenance Notification, which sends a diagnostic report directly to a preferred dealer, simplifying service scheduling
- OnStar Smart Driver, which monitors driving behaviors and offers the opportunity to save money on insurance
- AtYourService, which gives you access to a marketplace of localized money saving offers from nearby merchants
Cadillac’s 2017 model year products will feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the predominant new systems for in-car phone integration. Cadillac CUE provides owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A “Projection” icon will appear on the Cadillac CUE screen to enable simpler, easier access to key smartphone functions, including navigation, contacts, hands-free text messaging and select applications supported by Apple or Google.
Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features one would want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. This allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay.
Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at g.co/androidauto.
Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a steering wheel button, helping drivers spend more time with their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
The all-new myCadillac Mobile App combines the services available through the former myCadillac and OnStar RemoteLink® apps to allow customers to easily manage their vehicle ownership experience. Features on the new myCadillac Mobile App include roadside assistance, parking reminders, owner manual content, and vehicle diagnostics. In addition, users will be able to remotely control vehicle features, including the OnStar Wi-Fi® hotspot, remote start/stop, and remote door lock/unlock. The app is included for free for five years and is available in the U.S. and Canada through iTunes and Google Play Store.
Exterior Design – Functional form and the apex of the design philosophy
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
Almost every exterior panel on the Cadillac CTS-V super sedan is unique, from the fascias and fenders, to the hood, rear spoiler and rocker moldings – and every one was designed to support the car’s capability, contributing to lift reduction, enhanced cooling and improved aero performance. With its athletic stance, wide body and low height, the CTS-V’s shape is both aggressive and intelligent.
The unique elements include:
- A lightweight carbon fiber hood features an air-extracting vent that not only pulls hot air out of the engine compartment, but helps reduce lift at speed by channeling air pulled through the radiator out and over the top of car rather than allowing trapped air to exit under the car
- Unique front and rear fascias provide optimal aero performance, with larger grille openings in the front fascia to feed more air to the supercharged engine. Even the mesh pattern of the signature grille openings is enlarged to allow more air into the radiator and multiple heat exchangers
- A front splitter enhances handling by forcing air to push down on the front of the car rather than flow under it, where it can cause lift
- Wider fenders to accommodate the wide, 19-inch wheels and Michelin Pilot Super Sport summer-only tires
- The rocker moldings and rear spoiler are aero-optimized
- The forged aluminum wheels and brake calipers are offered in three finishes, allowing owners to personalize the appearance of the Cadillac CTS-V.
An available, all-carbon fiber package takes aero performance and dramatic styling to higher levels. It includes a more aggressive front splitter, hood vent trim, rear diffuser and a taller, exposed-carbon fiber rear spoiler. The exposed carbon fiber components are book-matched on the centerline for a precise, tailored appearance.
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
Colors offered for 2017 include Stellar Black Metallic, Black Raven, Red Obsession Tintcoat, Phantom Gray Metallic, Crystal White Tricoat and Radiant Silver Metallic.
The 19-inch lightweight, forged aluminum wheels come in three finishes: premium painted, polished with Midnight Silver painted pockets and full, After Midnight premium painted.
Available Red or Dark Gold Brembo brake calipers accent the super sedan’s performance capability with style.
Interior Design – a performance-focused cabin with handcrafted execution
2017 Cadillac CTS-V © General Motors
The Cadillac CTS-V’s dual-purpose capability carries over to the interior, where the design and relationship of key components are focused expressly on performance-driving ergonomics. Handcrafted cut-and-sew elements, with decorative stitching and authentic materials, surround performance seating, features and technology.
Available 16-way-adjustable RECARO performance front seats are the lynchpins for the driving experience, with aggressive, adjustable bolsters that help hold the driver and front passenger in place during high-load cornering. They also have a luxury-performance feel, trimmed in Mulan leather with sueded microfiber inserts and seatbacks. Twenty-way-adjustable, semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats with sueded microfiber inserts are standard.
An available sueded microfiber steering wheel and shift knob complement the seating.
The Cadillac CTS-V features a high-definition, 12.3-inch instrument panel cluster display, with V-Series graphics and distinctive gauge readouts and complementing full-color head-up display.
The available Performance Data Recorder (PDR) enables drivers to record, view and analyze driving experiences by capturing real-time video, cabin audio and performance data. The system – which features an HD camera and performance data acquisition hardware – is controlled via Cadillac CUE’s color touch screen. Recordings can be reviewed on the screen when the vehicle is parked or saved to an SD card to view or share from another device. PDR data can be analyzed using Cosworth Toolbox, a free suite of analysis software developed from racing analysis software and designed for use with the PDR in the Cadillac ATS-V Sedan and Coupe and the Cadillac CTS-V super sedan. V-Series owners can use Cosworth Toolbox to review laps to quickly improve performance such as braking points, accelerating points, driving lines and corner speeds.
The Cadillac CTS-V offers front and rear park assist, as well as Automatic Park Assist – which enables the car to steer itself in parallel and perpendicular spaces – and the Curbview Camera. It provides a view of the lower-front of the CTS-V to help protect the front splitter when parking.
Three interior color combinations are offered: Jet Black, Jet Black with Light Platinum accents and Saffron with Jet Black accents all with a sueded microfiber headliner.
Price
Recommended retail price (MSRP) starts from $85,595
