(6.2L V8 Supercharger 6-speed Manual)
What our ratings include
Driver:
Date Driven: 11/22/2010
(2011 model)
Performance
Although marginally slower than its coupe and sedan counterparts, the CTS-V Wagon is still blindingly quick. It offers nearly identical control feel and response as well. Nobody will guess this is a 556-hp wagon.
Driving Dynamics
A truly enjoyable car to drive, the CTS-V Wagon makes few compromises relative to its less family-friendly stablemates. Steering effort is weighty, feel is predictable. Brakes are alarmingly effective. Good balance of grip and agility.
Ride Comfort
The CTS-V Wagon is comfortable for a car this capable but still exhibits suspension tuning biased for impressive performance numbers. If you're looking for a soft Cadillac, you need to look elsewhere though overall a very good compromise.
Quietness
It's hard to make 556 hp and huge tires quiet. Although very quiet at idle, there is some engine and tire noise at wide-open throttle and while cruising. Not obtrusive.
Ergonomics
Very, very comfortable driving position and optional, highly adjustable Recaro seats make the CTS-V a choice over some competitors. Other critical interfaces are well placed and easy to use. A total of three knobs.
Visibility
No blind spots or other visibility problems in the CTS-V Wagon. Adaptive bi-xenon headlamps offer better-than-average nighttime illumination. Also present: a rearview camera and parking sensors.
Seat Access & Space
Front legroom is very good but headroom in both the front and rear can be tight for tall drivers or passengers. Properly mounting a child seat in the rear can be a challenge because of the seatbottom angle.
Cargo & Storage
It's unusual for a car with such a high-performance rating to rank so well in cargo and storage. It can only be done in a wagon offering 58 cubic feet of maximum storage space.
Build Quality
Although it uses superb materials and seems to be screwed together well, only time will tell if Cadillac has the recipe for lasting durability upheld by most of its German compeition.
