The Cadillac CTS builds on the brand's long tradition of technology and design innovation. The dynamic luxury sedan is a modern interpretation of the cars that made Cadillac famous. The 2006 model year of the CTS comes with exterior and interior refinements as well as a new transmission feature. The 5-speed automatic transmission of the 2006 CTS will be equipped for the first time with Driver Shift Control, allowing the driver to select gears manually. The CTS, also available with a six-speed manual transmission, offers the choice of two smooth-running six-cylinder engines: the 2.8-liter (158 kW/215 hp) and the 3.6 liter V6 (189 kW/257 hp).
The CTS range features bold, accented contours and unmistakable chiseled form, along with GM's acclaimed Sigma rear wheel-drive architecture. Characteristic cues include vertical headlamps and tail lamps, a refinement of a Cadillac tradition that first appeared in 1965. The 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 that tapers into the classic Cadillac grille with the prominent wreath and crest logo and a dramatic, rising shoulder line that refracts the light. It splits the car into a light upper and dark lower section, adding to the perceived length of the vehicle.
The body's stature is reinforced by strong wheel arches, defined by a precise undercut in the metal - a feature that makes the standard 16-inch aluminium wheels seem even larger, while the 2006 CTS Sport Luxury has new 17-inch wheels. The 2006 CTS offers three new exterior colors: Radiant Bronze, Blackberry and Infrared.
Smooth running
The two modern V6 engines boast high levels of performance and refinement. Mounted longitudinally in an especially compact arrangement, common features include aluminium cylinder heads, four valves per cylinder, dual overhead cams and electronically controlled "drive-by-wire" throttle, assuring sensitive engine response to driver input.
The second-produced variant of GM's global V-6 engine family, the 2.8L V-6 VVT is an all-aluminium 60-degree dual overhead cam, four-valve-per-cylinder design, developing 215 hp (158 kW) at 7000 rpm and 262 Nm of torque at 3300 rpm. The engine employs a wide range of advanced technologies, including fully variable valve timing of the intake and exhaust valves and a dual-stage variable intake manifold to deliver outstanding flexibility, fuel economy and emissions control.
The 3.6L V-6 VVT too is an all-aluminium, 60-degree dual overhead cam, four-valves-per-cylinder design, with fully variable valve timing and a dual-stage variable intake manifold, developing 257 horsepower (189 kW) at 6200 rpm and 340 Nm of torque at 3200 rpm. Externally it is distinguished from its smaller stablemate by the use of dual, rather than a single exhaust.
Transmissions
The CTS will be offered with an Aisin six-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. For model year 2006 the Hydra-Matic 5L40-E 5-speed automatic transmission will be equipped for the first time with Driver Shift Control. Driver Shift Control allows the driver to select gears manually and has been specifically designed for precise shifter feel and responsive inputs to command shifts.
The six-speed manual transmission is fully synchronized (including reverse), with a single overdrive. This allows for lower propshaft speeds. The transmission is rated for 400 Nm (295 horsepower) and its unique architecture is such that the gear inertias are lower, resulting in significantly lower shift efforts compared to conventional RWD manual transmissions.
The compact, state-of-the-art 5L40-E automatic transmission features a full complement of advanced electronic control capabilities. Another electronic feature is engine braking in all five gears, giving the automatic the same sporty feel as a downshifting manual.
Interior space, style and safety
The Cadillac CTS is distinguished by generous interior space for a luxury sedan. A wheelbase of 2880 mm provides the foundation for ample interior dimensions, comfortably accommodating five people. The cabin measures of 1075 by 940 mm, giving legroom galore for both front and rear occupants, while front shoulder room is also exemplary at 1438 mm. The trunk has a VDA cargo rating of 420 liters while fold-down 60/40-split rear seats means the cargo capacity can be further increased with ease.
Standard equipment includes six airbags. The two dual-stage front airbags inflate according to crash severity to avoid unnecessary injuries during minor collisions. Side-on impacts trigger front-seat-mounted side bags and roof-mounted curtain bags which inflate between the A- and C-pillars to ensure that all outboard occupants are protected. Because they inflate over a large area, the air cushions also protect the heads of smaller passengers.
The CTS' Sigma architecture is the first usage of ultra high-strength steel at GM and the first time the steel has been incorporated as a welded member of the structure. In the past, ultra high-strength steel was limited to applications such as bumpers, where bolts were used for attachment. Ultra high-strength steel permits the use of thinner, lighter steel, which reduces mass yet still allows proper energy absorption and reduces intrusion into the passenger compartment in an accident.
Factory-fitted luxury
The CTS is factory-fitted with luxury features such as dual-zone climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, front and rear power windows and an electrochromic rear-view mirror that automatically darkens as soon as the risk of glare is detected from vehicles behind.
The CTS interior uses warm, rich materials to contrast with the cool, computer-like, high-tech cockpit appearance, balancing the contemporary feel with touches of traditional luxury. For the Elegance and Sport Luxury version, wooden surfaces are used sparingly on the steering wheel, shifter knob and door pulls. New for 2006 are wooden surfaces on the instrument center stack and shifter trim bezel.
The distinctive form vocabulary of the Cadillac CTS is also reflected in the interior design, with an instrument cluster which includes strikingly designed dials reminiscent of stop watches and a three-spoke steering wheel with V-shaped airbag cover. The center console features displays for the sound system, climate control and the optional navigation unit, all ergonomically arranged within the driver's view. A range of leather interiors are available, including a particularly elegant two-tone version featuring contrasting colors for the well designed and comfortable seats. A cloth interior is standard on Comfort and Elegance.
Control buttons on the steering wheel ensure optimal operation of the Bose® audio system (standard on Elegance and Sport Luxury), which includes a built-in 6-disc CD player and eight high-quality Bose® speakers. The infotainment system can also be upgraded with the optional DVD-based navigation system with a large screen. Further equipment extras include a power sunroof. A Sport Luxury package comprises a practical combination of attractive extras, featuring leather seats, Xenon headlamps with high-pressure washer and 17-inch aluminium wheels with 225/50 R 17 tires.
Superior driving dynamics
A European way of driving with dynamic, agile handling, was the guiding principle for the CTS designers, who created a sophisticated rear-wheel-drive chassis with near-perfectly balanced weight distribution - 53 % front, 47 % rear.
The front suspension features a double A-arm design with coil springs. The rear wheels are mounted on a five-link rear axle, isolated from the body by four rubber mounts. The front upper and lower control arms are made of aluminium, which is also used on the rear axle for the upper control arm and the suspension knuckles. Specially designed for European requirements, the suspension guarantees good ride comfort, even on poor-quality surfaces and with the car fully loaded.
All CTS models are standard-fitted with Traction Control. If its sensors detect insufficient traction, the system immediately applies the brakes to the relevant wheels and, if necessary, also retards the engine timing.
Standard StabiliTrak stability control system increases driving safety in high speed swerves or sudden avoidance manoeuvres, restabilizing the car through precise application of the brakes on individual wheels. Adapted from the driving dynamics system in the Corvette, the system is highly responsive and can adjust braking at any of the four wheels to maintain vehicle control.
The CTS range features bold, accented contours and unmistakable chiseled form, along with GM's acclaimed Sigma rear wheel-drive architecture. Characteristic cues include vertical headlamps and tail lamps, a refinement of a Cadillac tradition that first appeared in 1965. The 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 that tapers into the classic Cadillac grille with the prominent wreath and crest logo and a dramatic, rising shoulder line that refracts the light. It splits the car into a light upper and dark lower section, adding to the perceived length of the vehicle.
The body's stature is reinforced by strong wheel arches, defined by a precise undercut in the metal - a feature that makes the standard 16-inch aluminium wheels seem even larger, while the 2006 CTS Sport Luxury has new 17-inch wheels. The 2006 CTS offers three new exterior colors: Radiant Bronze, Blackberry and Infrared.
Smooth running
The two modern V6 engines boast high levels of performance and refinement. Mounted longitudinally in an especially compact arrangement, common features include aluminium cylinder heads, four valves per cylinder, dual overhead cams and electronically controlled "drive-by-wire" throttle, assuring sensitive engine response to driver input.
The second-produced variant of GM's global V-6 engine family, the 2.8L V-6 VVT is an all-aluminium 60-degree dual overhead cam, four-valve-per-cylinder design, developing 215 hp (158 kW) at 7000 rpm and 262 Nm of torque at 3300 rpm. The engine employs a wide range of advanced technologies, including fully variable valve timing of the intake and exhaust valves and a dual-stage variable intake manifold to deliver outstanding flexibility, fuel economy and emissions control.
The 3.6L V-6 VVT too is an all-aluminium, 60-degree dual overhead cam, four-valves-per-cylinder design, with fully variable valve timing and a dual-stage variable intake manifold, developing 257 horsepower (189 kW) at 6200 rpm and 340 Nm of torque at 3200 rpm. Externally it is distinguished from its smaller stablemate by the use of dual, rather than a single exhaust.
Transmissions
The CTS will be offered with an Aisin six-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic transmission. For model year 2006 the Hydra-Matic 5L40-E 5-speed automatic transmission will be equipped for the first time with Driver Shift Control. Driver Shift Control allows the driver to select gears manually and has been specifically designed for precise shifter feel and responsive inputs to command shifts.
The six-speed manual transmission is fully synchronized (including reverse), with a single overdrive. This allows for lower propshaft speeds. The transmission is rated for 400 Nm (295 horsepower) and its unique architecture is such that the gear inertias are lower, resulting in significantly lower shift efforts compared to conventional RWD manual transmissions.
The compact, state-of-the-art 5L40-E automatic transmission features a full complement of advanced electronic control capabilities. Another electronic feature is engine braking in all five gears, giving the automatic the same sporty feel as a downshifting manual.
Interior space, style and safety
The Cadillac CTS is distinguished by generous interior space for a luxury sedan. A wheelbase of 2880 mm provides the foundation for ample interior dimensions, comfortably accommodating five people. The cabin measures of 1075 by 940 mm, giving legroom galore for both front and rear occupants, while front shoulder room is also exemplary at 1438 mm. The trunk has a VDA cargo rating of 420 liters while fold-down 60/40-split rear seats means the cargo capacity can be further increased with ease.
Standard equipment includes six airbags. The two dual-stage front airbags inflate according to crash severity to avoid unnecessary injuries during minor collisions. Side-on impacts trigger front-seat-mounted side bags and roof-mounted curtain bags which inflate between the A- and C-pillars to ensure that all outboard occupants are protected. Because they inflate over a large area, the air cushions also protect the heads of smaller passengers.
The CTS' Sigma architecture is the first usage of ultra high-strength steel at GM and the first time the steel has been incorporated as a welded member of the structure. In the past, ultra high-strength steel was limited to applications such as bumpers, where bolts were used for attachment. Ultra high-strength steel permits the use of thinner, lighter steel, which reduces mass yet still allows proper energy absorption and reduces intrusion into the passenger compartment in an accident.
Factory-fitted luxury
The CTS is factory-fitted with luxury features such as dual-zone climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, front and rear power windows and an electrochromic rear-view mirror that automatically darkens as soon as the risk of glare is detected from vehicles behind.
The CTS interior uses warm, rich materials to contrast with the cool, computer-like, high-tech cockpit appearance, balancing the contemporary feel with touches of traditional luxury. For the Elegance and Sport Luxury version, wooden surfaces are used sparingly on the steering wheel, shifter knob and door pulls. New for 2006 are wooden surfaces on the instrument center stack and shifter trim bezel.
The distinctive form vocabulary of the Cadillac CTS is also reflected in the interior design, with an instrument cluster which includes strikingly designed dials reminiscent of stop watches and a three-spoke steering wheel with V-shaped airbag cover. The center console features displays for the sound system, climate control and the optional navigation unit, all ergonomically arranged within the driver's view. A range of leather interiors are available, including a particularly elegant two-tone version featuring contrasting colors for the well designed and comfortable seats. A cloth interior is standard on Comfort and Elegance.
Control buttons on the steering wheel ensure optimal operation of the Bose® audio system (standard on Elegance and Sport Luxury), which includes a built-in 6-disc CD player and eight high-quality Bose® speakers. The infotainment system can also be upgraded with the optional DVD-based navigation system with a large screen. Further equipment extras include a power sunroof. A Sport Luxury package comprises a practical combination of attractive extras, featuring leather seats, Xenon headlamps with high-pressure washer and 17-inch aluminium wheels with 225/50 R 17 tires.
Superior driving dynamics
A European way of driving with dynamic, agile handling, was the guiding principle for the CTS designers, who created a sophisticated rear-wheel-drive chassis with near-perfectly balanced weight distribution - 53 % front, 47 % rear.
The front suspension features a double A-arm design with coil springs. The rear wheels are mounted on a five-link rear axle, isolated from the body by four rubber mounts. The front upper and lower control arms are made of aluminium, which is also used on the rear axle for the upper control arm and the suspension knuckles. Specially designed for European requirements, the suspension guarantees good ride comfort, even on poor-quality surfaces and with the car fully loaded.
All CTS models are standard-fitted with Traction Control. If its sensors detect insufficient traction, the system immediately applies the brakes to the relevant wheels and, if necessary, also retards the engine timing.
Standard StabiliTrak stability control system increases driving safety in high speed swerves or sudden avoidance manoeuvres, restabilizing the car through precise application of the brakes on individual wheels. Adapted from the driving dynamics system in the Corvette, the system is highly responsive and can adjust braking at any of the four wheels to maintain vehicle control.