The 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is a great example of getting the best of both worlds, serving as a practical companion during the week and turning into a track-day weapon on the weekend.

Just like Cadillac's regular CTS, the CTS-V has four doors, a comfortable interior, and loads of features. Unlike the CTS, though, the CTS-V has a Corvette-derived supercharged V8 good for 640 horsepower. It also comes with an adjustable suspension and high-performance brakes to give it absurdly high levels of capability.

There are other rivals to consider, of course, with the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-AMG E 63 the most well-known. These German high-performance sedans typically have nicer-looking interiors and more in the way of advanced infotainment features. Yet we like the CTS-V all the same. This bold American sedan easily matches the world's best when it comes to performance, and it does so at a more affordable price.

Cadillac CTS-V models

The 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is a high-performance version of the regular CTS sedan, which is reviewed separately. The V version packs a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that produces 640 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. You can only get it with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. Only one trim level is available.

Standard equipment highlights include 19-inch wheels, summer performance tires, Brembo performance brakes, an electronic limited-slip differential, a magnetically controlled adaptive suspension, an automatic parking system, xenon headlights, and keyless ignition and entry. The CTS-V also has forward collision warning, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, lane departure warning and intervention, and rearview and curb-view parking cameras.

Inside the cabin, you'll find dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats (with heating, manual thigh extenders and power-adjustable bolsters), driver-seat memory settings, leather and simulated-suede upholstery, a heated power-adjustable steering wheel, and a simulated-suede headliner. Cadillac also fits the CTS-V with a 12.3-inch all-digital gauge display, a head-up display, an 8-inch touchscreen interface, OnStar communications (with 4G LTE and a Wi-Fi hotspot), wireless smartphone charging, three USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a navigation system, and a 13-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with satellite radio.

The optional Luxury package adds tri-zone climate control, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, heated rear seats, a power rear sunshade, manual rear side sunshades, a 110-volt power outlet, and Cadillac's rearview camera mirror. The Carbon Fiber package adds a carbon-fiber hood vent, spoiler, front splitter, and rear diffuser.

Also available as stand-alone options are ventilated front seats, Recaro performance front seats, an onboard data and video recorder, a simulated-suede steering wheel and shift knob, as well as a sunroof.

Trim tested

The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Cadillac CTS-V (supercharged 6.2L V8 | 8-speed automatic | RWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2016, the current CTS-V has received a few minor updates, including a revised infotainment system. Our findings remain applicable to this year's CTS-V.

Scorecard

Overall	8.0 / 10
Driving	9.0
Comfort	7.0
Interior	7.0
Utility	6.0

Driving

9.0

The CTS-V shines with its combination of classic American muscle and state-of-the-art handling capabilities, giving it a leg up on its staunchest German rivals. Others have evolved into softer and more comfort-oriented machines; Cadillac has only sharpened its edges and packed on more muscle.

Acceleration

9.5

Taking just 4.1 seconds to reach 60 mph, the CTS-V offers genuine sports-car-shaming speed, camouflaged in the skin of a practical family sedan. The biggest issue with having 640 hp on tap is finding enough road to relish it.

Braking

9.5

The ultra-solid brakes are an excellent match to the engine and easy to modulate. The pedal travel is short, firm and reassuring. Emergency braking is executed without much noise or drama, needing only 102 feet of asphalt to stop from 60 mph.

Steering

9.0

The steering response isn't as crisp as we'd expect, but the effort in Touring mode feels spot-on and delivers decent feedback. Track and Sport modes are a little heavy for typical driving and clearly tuned for stability demands at higher speeds.

Handling

9.0

Layers of electronic safety nets make the CTS-V manageable for virtually any driver. Turn them off, and experienced drivers will enjoy skating around on all that torque with relative ease. The amount of tire grip available borders on ludicrous.

Drivability

6.5

The transmission's shifting can get a bit uneven and rough, even in Touring mode. This might be expected of a dual-clutch automatic, but not the CTS-V's automatic transmission. Throttle response is otherwise smooth and user-friendly.

Comfort

7.0

Soft and cushy may come to mind when you think of the Cadillac brand, but the CTS-V is not your grandfather's Caddy. Speed, agility and proper seat support are priorities with this car, so you may want to consider something else if you're expecting a rocket-powered couch.

Seat comfort

9.0

The optional Recaro performance seats deliver excellent support and adjustability. The cushions and armrest padding are on the firm side, but that's to be expected. They even performed well on a lengthy road trip. Unfortunately, this upgrade can't be paired with ventilation.

Ride comfort

6.5

This Caddy is pleasant over smooth highways, but bumpier streets will reveal its true stiff-legged nature, even in Touring mode, which can get tiring. In fact, we didn't notice much separation between any of the magnetic suspension settings during casual driving.

Noise & vibration

6.5

Wind noise is well-isolated, but a moderate amount of road noise finds its way into the cabin, a likely trade-off for sticky tires. Under hard acceleration, the supercharger whine is most prominent.

Interior

7.0

Cadillac's efforts to up its interior game are apparent but flop when it comes to execution. The capacitive controls look slick, but they aren't as easy to operate as dials or real buttons. Also, the basics, such as easy access to seat adjustment controls, have been grossly overlooked.

Ease of use

6.0

The infotainment system response times are quick. But the tilted screen isn't sufficiently recessed, so glare and fingerprints are highly visible and distracting. The steering wheel buttons require too much physical effort and lack convenient placement.

Getting in/getting out

7.0

Front-seat access is great; the doors open wide. The seat height makes it easy to slip right in. The rear door apertures are smaller and have less head clearance due to a sloping roofline.

Roominess

7.5

Space is generous in the front seats but not so much in the rear. The front buckets have solid backs and sit low, so there's not a lot of room for feet or knees in back. With adults, four is optimal due to a short middle seat that straddles a wide center tunnel.

Visibility

6.5

The thick front and rear pillars and small sideview mirrors don't lend themselves to great visibility. The parking cameras aren't great in low-light situations.

Quality

6.5

Tight panel tolerances, a leather dash, carbon trim and contrast stitching all look stylish and of high quality. Ambient lighting is also subtle and well-done. What doesn't look great is the heavy use of chrome trim and thin, simulated-suede surfaces. Other brands do it better.

Utility

6.0

Narrow door pockets, a smaller glovebox and armrest bin, and a nook behind a motorized cover constitute the cabin storage options. The trunk volume is lackluster at 13.7 cubic feet with a laughably small ski pass-through and a split-folding feature that's optional.

Technology

Cadillac updated its tech interface for 2018, and we have yet to sample it. Feature content is to be commended, however, with standard accident avoidance tech, parking aids, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 4G LTE Wi-Fi and three USB ports.

Consumer reviews

There are no consumer reviews for the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V.

Features & Specs

4dr Sedan features & specs
4dr Sedan 6.2L 8cyl S/C 8A
MSRP	$86,995
MPG	14 city / 21 hwy
Seating	Seats 5
Transmission	8-speed shiftable automatic
Horsepower	640 hp @ 6400 rpm

See all for sale

See all 2019 Cadillac CTS-V features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite CTS-V safety features:

Forward Collision Alert: Uses sensors to detect stopped vehicles ahead, warning the driver through visual and audible signals.
Lane Change Alert w/ Blind Zone Alert: Monitors blind spots and alerts the driver should a lane change be attempted when there's a car in a neighboring lane.
Lane Keep Assist: Warns the driver should the car start to drift from its lane and can take corrective steering action if needed.

NHTSA Overall Rating 4 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	4 / 5
Driver	4 / 5
Passenger	3 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	5 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	10.1%

Cadillac CTS-V vs. the competition

Cadillac CTS-V vs. Cadillac ATS-V

The ATS-V is the smaller and younger brother to the CTS-V. Its turbocharged V6 isn't as raucous or powerful as the CTS-V's supercharged V8, but handling and braking capabilities are very similar. Although these two share similar design elements, the ATS-V is smaller in every dimension. If you frequently transport passengers, consider the CTS-V. It's the more comfortable choice.

Compare Cadillac CTS-V & Cadillac ATS-V features

Cadillac CTS-V vs. BMW M5

BMW's M5 is the car that made sport sedans famous, and the CTS-V follows in its footsteps with an aggressive suspension and big power. Between the two, the M5 is more civilized and well thought out. The M5's all-wheel drive also gives it four-season drivability. The aggressive styling award goes to the CTS-V.

Compare Cadillac CTS-V & BMW M5 features

Cadillac CTS-V vs. Dodge Charger

The Charger Hellcat isn't a bona-fide luxury car, but it has plenty going for it. It has more cargo space and rear-seat space than the CTS-V. The Charger also has more power. But the CTS-V will run circles around the Dodge when it comes to handling and braking. Ultimately, deciding between them boils down to your choice of the CTS-V's scalpel versus the Charger Hellcat's sledgehammer.

Compare Cadillac CTS-V & Dodge Charger features

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FAQ

Is the Cadillac CTS-V a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2019 CTS-V both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.0 out of 10. You probably care about Cadillac CTS-V fuel economy, so it's important to know that the CTS-V gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the CTS-V has 13.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Cadillac CTS-V. Learn more

What's new in the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V:

Champion Edition package discontinued
Part of the third-generation CTS-V introduced for 2016

Learn more

Is the Cadillac CTS-V reliable?

To determine whether the Cadillac CTS-V is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the CTS-V. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the CTS-V's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2019 CTS-V and gave it a 8.0 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2019 CTS-V is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2019 Cadillac CTS-V?

The least-expensive 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $86,995.

Other versions include:

4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 8A) which starts at $86,995

Learn more

What are the different models of Cadillac CTS-V?

If you're interested in the Cadillac CTS-V, the next question is, which CTS-V model is right for you? CTS-V variants include 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 8A). For a full list of CTS-V models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

More about the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V

The greatest Cadillacs once sprouted grand fins and taillights inspired by the Space Age. Today, the great 2019 Cadillac CTS-V may not look like a rocket, but it sure as heck moves like one. Packing the same supercharged V8 as the Corvette Z06, the CTS-V boasts an incredible 640 horsepower that sends it from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds. Meanwhile, it has the same classy styling and abundant feature content and, thanks to a sophisticated suspension, it still manages to deliver a comfortable ride.

The CTS-V suspension features Magnetic Ride Control, or magnetically controlled adjustable dampers that not only provide a comfortable ride but also tremendous handling capability. A stiff body structure, excellent steering, upgraded Brembo brakes, a race-derived traction control system and high-performance Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires round out the sporty highlights. It's a true driver's car that can compete with the best high-powered sedans from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Now, if you're drawn to a full-size luxury sedan with 640 hp, chances are that fuel economy isn't exactly high on your priority list. Nevertheless, the CTS-V isn't the gas hog you might assume thanks to an eight-speed automatic transmission and cylinder deactivation. According to the EPA, it returns an estimated 16 mpg combined (14 city/21 highway).

As a Cadillac, and one of the most expensive ones at that, the CTS-V comes standard with an abundance of features at a price that undercuts its competition. A self-parking system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system, and a 13-speaker Bose sound system are some of the noteworthy standard features. You can also add some extra features courtesy of the Luxury package or Recaro performance seats.

Ultimately, the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is a tremendous performance luxury sedan. Its cabin isn't quite as well put together as some of its German competitors, and its tech interface isn't our favorite, but on the whole, this Cadillac is every bit an engineering achievement that Americans can be proud of. Maybe not landing-a-man-on-the-moon proud, but it's certainly far more impressive than tailfins. And if it seems like your type of luxury car, make sure to check out the Edmunds inventory pages to help find the perfect CTS-V for you.

2019 Cadillac CTS-V Overview

The 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is offered in the following submodels: CTS-V Sedan. Available styles include 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 8A).

What do people think of the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 CTS-V.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 CTS-V featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2019 Cadillac CTS-V?

Which 2019 Cadillac CTS-VS are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 Cadillac CTS-V for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Cadillac CTS-V.

Can't find a new 2019 Cadillac CTS-Vs you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Cadillac CTS-V for sale - 4 great deals out of 6 listings starting at $14,460.

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Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.

Should I lease or buy a 2019 Cadillac CTS-V?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Cadillac lease specials

2019 Cadillac CTS-V