Used 2008 Cadillac CTS Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Major waste of money!!
Went through two engines both gave out due to the same problem, and it wasn't because of poor maintenance. I loved my CTS but I had to give it up due to the repair cost and what I owed on it. But I wouldn't make the same mistake again if your looking to purchase one might as well be a new one not used so you know your getting something no has neglected or caused damaged to before.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Awesome!
I just hit the 200 mile mark on my CTS. I have only had the car for 1 week. This is truly the best car I have ever owned. The car handles OUTSTANDINGLY, rides GREAT, and looks FANTASTIC! My car has the performance package, luxury 1 and 2 and polished wheels. You really don't need to spend the extra money for the Nav. The interior lighting looks unbelievable. And the best part is that the car was so much less then the BMW 3 series, Audi A4 and the Mercedes C class. GM really did a tremendous job on this car. I would highly recommend this Cadillac to anyone in the market for a luxury midsized car.
- Base Sedan w/Direct InjectionMSRP: $9,995117 mi away
- Base Sedan w/Direct InjectionMSRP: $9,999159 mi away
- Base Sedan w/Direct InjectionMSRP: $6,995180 mi away
Love my CTS Direct Injection in Hot Lava
Looked at BWM 3 and 5, Audi A5, Infiniti G37, Lexus IS350. All nice cars, but the CTS is better. Traded in 3-series for CTS. Although exterior looks are subjective, this is one of most compelling-looking cars in the modern era. Interior is fabulous, as well. Nav system and hard drive are well-designed and easy to use. The pop up function for the nav is a great touch, as is the ability to display the radio info without popping up the nav. Ergonomics are excellent. I find myself looking forward to long trips - it just eats the miles. Glad to finally be able to buy an American car again without compromise. This car reflects serious attention to detail, baked in from lessons learned.
Love this car
Easily the best car that I have ever owned. Have driven 3,000 miles the first two weeks that I have owned it. Fantastic ride, gas mileage, styling. Never thought that I would actually love a car. I was wrong. Would recommend it to anyone.
Great Car
Great car for the money. Only thing I dislike is the front seats are a little hard because of the heated, ventilated ducting. Also gas mileage is a little less at 19.5 mpg than previous 05 CTS 21.5 mpg which may be due to the AWD and the car still has only 4000 miles.
So Far, So Good
Former Lexus owner. Shopped against BMW 5 series, Audi A4 and Lexus 330. BMW dealer compares CTS DI with its 220 hp 3 series -- not even close unless you like stripped down, slow German cars. Lexus 330 was close, but is a lot more conservative looking and $3,000 more. With all the bells and whistles, none could come close to the Cadillac. I thought I was too young for a Cadillac sedan, but this car has exceeded my expectations and draws compliments from friends and clients.
Reliability in question
I loved this vehicle for the first 2000 miles and then it began idling roughly when in gear. Then the passenger window regulator went out with the window in the down position. The dealer has had the car for two weeks without being able to find parts anywhere. Cadillac, it seems, has failed its dealers and customers.
Applause Well Deserved
Have owned Audi, Jag, Acura, and Infiniti. The 2008 CTS has them all beat in terms of overall performance and comfort. Averaging 2,000 miles per month of combined city/hwy driving with overall fuel economy of 22 mpg on reg gas. AWD has handled the lake effect snow in Buffalo with no problem and highway driving is more fun and just as comfortable as a Q45.
So far so good
Had the CTS for over a month and so far it's been awesome. Lots of fun to drive. Averaging about 21 MPG. No issues so far. I was considering a Lincoln MKS but this car is so much more exciting I'm glad I chose it!
We are buying a 2nd 08 CTS!
My husband purchasd this car through a company car leaseback program which does not allow anyone else to drive it. After sneaking around in this vehicle for the last month, all I can say is "wow". I became obsessed with the ride of this car, and we are now leasing a silver/black fully loaded unit due to arrive in March.
Proud to own a Cadillac
I'm 36 and this is my second Cadillac, but this is no fuddy-duddy car like my '04 DHS was labeled. It's a car seemingly made for my demographic. I've never driven a car that turns as many heads and gets as many compliments and inquiries as this one does. The steering feel and handling are superb. The throttle response and manumatic shifting can take some effort to be smooth, but that kind of adds to the fun. The car likes to rev, but it lacks low end torque. It feels a little slow until you hit around 3500 RPM, at which point it takes off almost unpredictably quickly. I also have a strange odor coming from the air vents, and have since day one. Not sure what that's about.
Got A Lemon
1500 miles, rear axle seal bad, check engine light on, and ABS sensor bad, no sensor available, car in shop for 8 days tillone became available. 1800 miles 2 months old check engine light on again. Water getting in two cylinders, GM wanted to repair the motor, I wanted a new one. Local dealership finally told GM it was a block problem couldn't be fixed. Been in the shop 3 weeks, might get it back in a couple of days. Caddy talks the talk but certainly doesn't walk the walk as far as customer service goes. This is my 17th new GM car and the last. They should have replaced the car instead of hassling me about repairing the motor.
This is not your grandparents Cadillac
I love this car! It is gorgeous. Truly beautiful. I had a 2006 MB CLK 500 Convertible and love my new Cadillac more! It is so plush, nice to drive, makes me want to take my time to get where I am going. Love the keyless entry - dont need to dig in my purse with a handful of groceries to get my keys, the door just opens! AND you can play DVD's for the kids in the Navigation system! I purchased the fully loaded all leather, black/black automatic with the bigger engine! The navigation system is really nice - huge screen and love the traffic reports! Dont lease this car - buy it - because you wont want to give it back!
First Impression
I just purchased this car from a private party, a good friend so I know it has been treated well. What a surprise. The car is fantstically put together. Weleld esigned and executed. An absolute pleasure to drive. Looking forward to a very lengthy relationship.
After one Year of Driving
Great car! I have owed many fast cars but this one is fast, corners like crazy and is a great luxury vehicle at the same time! I am getting 20 mpg around town and 26-28 on the highway! Mine has the F2 suspension with the direct Injection. If this car holds together like I think it will I will buy another (assuming GM is still in business).
2008 CTS all options
Well I also picked up my cts. It came in with everything including the wood wheel and shifter. I waited till now to write this because after a 1000 miles I have a clear picture of its performance. I have not found anything wrong with this car. It was ordered with every option AWD,DI,89U, spoiler, this without a doubt the most enjoyable car I have ever owned. The moonroof is great (here in NYC) the handling fantastic, the bose sound system and the HDD are great. No negatives at all. Great work Cadillac. The American car is back!
New CTS owner 2008
I bought my 2008 CTS with 300 HP DI engine and I swear it feels like an 8 cylinder. The handling of this car is like a luxury-sports car, which is much better than the 2004 350 ZX I traded in. I've got just over 1200 miles on it and it is still as tight and responsive as the day I drove it off the lot. I talked my wife into this car and she is happy I did(it was her 350Z). I got every feature available.
Look forward to driving to work
Sometimes you have buyer's remourse when you buy a big ticket item. I have colleagues who have indicated such with their Lexus, Mercedes and BMWs - but definitely not the case here. I've found that I look forward to going to work because I get to drive this car! I've had it for 3 months and it's been fantastic. My friends with different luxury nameplates are envious and for the 1st time - considering a Cadillac. I love it.
Love my car
Test drove Lexus gs350, BMW335, Audi A6 then by chance looked at a CTS. We have had three Volvos in the last ten years and have been satisfied with all of them. But when I drove the 2008 CTS i was amazed with the drive and looks and feel of the car. I love to sit and play with all the interior features. I find myself asking my wife if she needs something from the store.
Caddie is Back!
While the 08 CTS is not quite as precise as the BMW 3- or 5-series (I've owned both), it is more than adequate in everyday driving and gives you back a much quieter, smoother ride than either of the Bimmers. The interior of this car absolutely blows away the competition. Compare this car, well equipped for about $43k (AWD, 3.6 DI, Bose, and almost everything except Nav with a comparably equipped 3-series (about $49k) or 5-series (even more), and you'll begin to understand what all the press is about. Fit, finish and materials are superb...and if GM can produce a reliable car (TBD), the Boys in Bavaria and elsewhere have a lot to be worried about. Did I mention this car burns regular?
08 CTS Absolutely Tremendous!
This car just rode from Miami Beach to St. Augustine Florida, directly after pickup from the dealer. The straight line handling compares to train rails, almost unbelievable engineering from Cadillac/GM. We hated getting out of the car after 5 hours! Total joy, as you will swear your driving a V-8. This is the sweetest V-6 we have have ever driven for extended trips.
Caddy Gold
The new CTS is a beast of a different kind. The car is completely redesigned but maintains the characteristics of the legendary first generation. The front view of the car is aggressive, low to the floor, and makes a statement before you arrive at your destination. The interior is by far the best, even topping BMW and Mercedes brands (which we were considering). The driving experience is stiff, responsive and very comfortable. A simple tap to the right of the shifter sends the car into sport mode and all 304 horses awaken to tear up the asphalt. Only one way to describe our experience thus far- Pure Gold.
Best Car I ever owned
Awesome Car, great interior, great gas mileage. couldn't be happier with Cadillac's new design
Lemon GM stopped making parts
Delivery 3/29/08 Dead Battery Toe in adjusted Steering Column replaced Wipers started, heating fluid light came on and sprayed for two minutes two times in two months and then never happened again. One of the two horns stopped working 2 weeks later they worked Air conditioned seats stopped working 2) Days later Air conditioned seats started working Dead Battery jumped roadside Dead Battery jumped roadside Bolt Rolling around head liner Dead Battery caddy said battery OK Dead Battery roadside replaced ad cleaned corrosion Bolt Rolling around head liner Touch Pad broke off trunk Back windows dont work (said it was fine) nothing repaired came out with the same problems
My 2008 CTS
Replaced my 2005 STS with the CTS. CTS is more comfortable, more "gadgets", more fun to drive, turns more heads than my STS ever did.
Sexy and Fun to Drive!
I absolutely love my 2008 CTS. I chose a 6 speed manual with the direct injection (304 hp) and for the power it gets amazing fuel economy. I have not had one single problem with this car since I drove it off the dealer lot. The cabin is comfortable, quiet and has lots of goodies to play with. Th exterior literally makes heads turn. The materials are high quality and the design is flawless.
Great Luxury, Performance, and Value
I compared to the 2009 Audi A4, BMW 328xi, Mercedes C300 AWD, and Lexus IS250 AWD. Actually drove them all at a test track. The CTS offers the space of a BMW 5 series at a better value.
Traded my 530I
Baby boomer who's never owned a new American built car (or any American car other than the old Pontiac I had in high school). Owned 2 BMW 530i's and a C280 Mercedes before that. Happy to see that there's an American car that finally measures up. Is it perfect - no? Probably the only car in its class not to have bluetooth, but OnStar is GM's baby so I can live with my bluetooth earpiece and use the OnStar when needed. What I am impressed with is the styling, performace, and functionality. Got the 3.6DI with 304 horses and its definitely quicker than the 530i. The audio with XM and 40GB hard drive and centerpoint surround sound is sweet. Escalade-like styling makes it.
Piece of Junk
Love the car when it's not in the warranty service shop. Have 24,000 miles on it, and it has had two major repairs. First, at 12k miles, the cheap plastic clips that hold up the wiring harness broke in cold weather and the fan destroyed the harness. Then after the check engine light came on at 24k, and the inferior timing chain had to be replaced. Now, I;m told the service codes indicate the cam/crank misalignment. Pretty sad for GM's "flagship" car line. Then there's been constant leaks in the door seals (repaired three times), which whistle above 40 MPH. The premium Bose sound is a disappointment This is my 1st & last Cadillac.
Foreign cars eat ur hearts out!
This car rocks! It's the red one on TV and magazine covers; I got it fully featured, but opted for the Auto vs Manual shift. It replaced my '03 CTS that I loved (and so did my BMW-owning friends....more room!) I obliged my Mercedes and Audi loving relatives by considering them, but hands down this CTS packs more punch/value for every buck. I find it a smooother ride than the Europeans. It has more useful features than my cousin's limited edition Audi that cost $80K. He said he has no iPod connector nor USB port, nor 36 preset channels, nor as much room in the back seat for clients as I do. The teenagers in my neighborhood went crazy over it. Talk about not being Dad's car anymore!
Amazing - a GM product that's a "10"
If the new CTS is representative, GM is in the process of pulling off an astonishing revival. The BMWCCA magazine Roundel recently did a comparo between the CTS and the 5 series and concluded that not only was the CTS an excellent auto inside and out, but was virtually the equal of the BMW for over $10K less. After driving the Cadillac and seeing it up close, I agreed with the assessment.
Wow
Great car all around. I've been looking for 4months, BMW, MB, Lexus and this one beats them hands down! Performance, quality, and value. This is my first Caddy and I'm proud
08 CTS
Great car! Most outstanding interior of any American car. Exterior looks a little too flashy and front bumper is a little low, but still a classy looking car. Terrific build quality (way to go GM) and great driving characteristics. Nice to see Cadillac come to market with new technology like great nav system, "TiVO-like audio" and voice command. Disappointing to not see Bluetooth even offered - I bought on the promise that it will be retrofitted.
CTS beats BMW
My new CTS is awesome! I've had it for just about a month and now have 2K miles on it. It's a thrilling ride and looks gorgeous. When I bought my CTS I researched and test drove all the major competitors (BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C Class, etc.) and the CTS beat them all in drive, HP, leg room (I'm 6' 2" and have enough room to even sit in the back) and in looks. This is my first Caddy but won't be my last.
A truly excellent car
After 10 months of ownership, I can say this is one of the few cars for which I have felt no regret after purchasing. Its stunning to look at, inside and out and with the FE3 package and 6speed manual, it is a true driver's car. Most importantly, it is genuinely a quality piece. The body structure is incredibly solid; even with the stiff FE3 suspension setup it feels imperturbable. The interior isnt just excellent for a car in the mid-40s, it is actually nicer than a number of more expensive cars, with great fit & finish and superb materials. The Nav/Infotainment System is the best I have ever seen or heard. The exterior features Lexus like panel gaps.
Just bought it!
Traded in my '04 GTO 6sp. 5.7 litre for my first Caddy ever. I was sold on the little Bimmer or maybe even a Lexus but happened by the Cadillac dealer on the way to buy one or the other. Fell in love with the CTS4, took it home yesterday. First trip was to Ann Arbor for dinner last night, beautiful ride!
Almost there, but not quite yet.
I purchased a fully loaded 2008 CTS w/ DI brand new and ended up trading it in about 5k miles later. So you can see where this is going. Overall the car was great, fun the drive, and looked very nice. But after 6 dealer visits and a few annoying issues unresolved, it had to go. The big issue with this CTS and ALL of the CTS's I tested was poor build quality and materials. Every piece of plastic squeaks in the car from the center stack, to center console, to the cheap "chrome" bezel on the IP. Like rattles? Plenty of those around the sunroof, doors, etc. This is not what I or anybody expects from GM's 'best' car they are offering for sale right now. If GM can fix that, they might survive.
Rattle from Center Console Area
Likes: (1)Price (2)American brand (3)Style improvement over outgoing model Dislikes: (1)Started making rattles from center console (perhaps from fan) within first 1000 mile (2)Noisy engine at idle (3)Screaming engine at full acceleration (4)Terrible sound system for base model (5)Very few options for base model (6)Handsfree bluetooth should be a standard feature
Sweet Cadi - CTS
Wow, this car has exceeded my expectations and you must drive the direct inject V6 with 305 HP to truly appreciate it. I've owned new BMW 5, new BMW 3, and new Audi 6 and the new 2008 CTS not only belongs in this class but outshines them all with ext/int design and features. You definitely get more and more for your money. The direct inject 304 hp engine is there to perform when needed. The sport suspension package with 19" wheels has the CTS hugging the road and gives it the tight feel. I love this car...it's the best 4 dr sport sedan I've owned and if Cadillac continues to deliver quality and VALUE there's no reason to go back to BMW, Audi, or consider others like Lexus.
A year later
Just about one year later, The $48,900 loaded CTS had two leaks in the sunroof making water run into the car though the A frame. The Fuel Pump went the 1st week with 400 mile on the car. Since then all is ok except the hard ride has created more rattles than a NYC Gypsy cab. I'm Very disappointed. Craftsmanship is still crap. No wonder GM is hurting
This CTS is amazing.
I can't get over the features this car packs. The hard drive is fantastic. The power and fuel economy together are both unbelievable. I liked it for the exterior, but I love it for the interior. And it actually has good rear seat room. This is clearly Caddy's 5-series, but it feels more like a 3-series driving down the road (the curvier the better!)
I love this car!
I've only had the car for 2 weeks, but it's been my dream car for years and I waited for the 2008s as I heard they were much improved. I love this car more than I ever imagined I would. It's quiet, comfortable, easy to drive and everyone stops to look at it. The sunset blue color is really something to look at.
This CTS has all the right ingredients
I was considering the 3-series, 5- series, and Acura TL in addition to this vehicle. I'd have been happy with any of them I think, but the CTS had that extra bit. The technology was abundant and easy to use. The performance was amazing on twisty lake side roads. I've driven it about a 1000 miles so far on business trips and my customers gush over it and I sit in comfort the whole while. Get the air conditioned seats! I also appreciated the DFI engine over the standard and am getting about 28 mpg on the freeway. 20 mpg in town.
Great buy, a few minor issues
I bought my '08 CTS in August of 2008 as a demo car, so it already had about 5k miles on it. Have had no major problems or defects. The DI engine is awesome, especially when you use premium gas. There are a few rattles that come from the dash and the driver's seat does do some squeaking, especially when the leather is cold. My only complaint has been the brakes, which started squeaking about a month after I bought it. Dealer tells me it's because of the parts used and GM should have a replacement out by January '09 - but it's May and still no way to stop the squeaking. Brakes work fine though. Overall, very happy with my purchase - it's a beautiful car, fun to drive, and a really good price.
Mac Daddy Pimp Mobile!
I picked up the ride on Saturday afternoon and spent the rest of the day "oohing and aahing" and getting lots of looks from other drivers. I went from a BMW 325 and was very surprised by how well the car handled. I expected a big drop off in handling and there was none. Oh, and this car moves. I had smooth power and plenty of torque. If you're not careful, you'll eclipse the speed limit quickly. All this with an extremely quiet interior. The interior is beautiful--especially at night! The ambient lighting absolutely makes a huge impression. I like the HID steerable headlamps and if I'm not mistaken the back up lamps are HID as well. This is my first Caddy and I'm in love!
Truly a "10"
Picked up '08 CTS last day of August for my wife, wanted her to have the first one! This vehicle is outstanding. Tight, quiet, responsive with beautiful fit and finish. Ride is "just right", not too harsh and not too soft. Handling is superb. Feel sorry for those who paid thousands more for BMW's and Mercedes and got less car for the money.
Be careful before taking delivery
I just brought my new CTS after looking for a car for some time. The interior is beautiful and sold me. That was my mistake. I looked the car over admiringly since, and was annoyed that at $40K+ car would not have a rear bumper that was aligned properly. The dealer informed me that it is a manufacturing defect and it is normal that the bumper be out of alignment on one side of the car or the other. "The bumper is just too big" was the actual reply. I've contacted Cadillac through their web site and been given a very thoughtful run around. I could have learned to live with the defect, having been a loyal GM owner for 20+, but the responses and lack of care make me wish I had not bought it.
CTS beats 535 hands down
I drove BMW, Lexus Acura and Lincoln MKZ. After owning this car for 4 months it has proven that it exceeds the others in every aspect. Fit and finish in and out is superb plus it gets 30MPG on the road on regular gas. I just need more reasons to open the garage door and go for a ride. Thanks Cadillac for building the best!
2008 Cadillac CTS is fantastic!
I have now had my 2008 CTS for about 10 days. I took delivery of a black with black leather with the 304 horsepower engine and all wheel drive that also has the 18 inch wheel package with all season tires and the upgraded suspension, etc. I also have the premium luxury collection (PDQ) that includes almost every option available on the car. For background, I have owned the Lexus 400 series, the BMW 7 series, the BMW 5 series, the Audi A6 4.2, the Audi A8 and a number of other similar cars. This car is every bit as nice, particularly when you compare the price This car is fantastic. It is beautiful inside and out and the stereo and nav functions are great and easy to use. Go see it!
2008 CTS
Not "your fathers Cadillac". Great pick up, well designed interior. Quality shows both inside and out. Navigation system easy to use. Pleasure to drive.I also test drove a Mercedes C class and found that dollar for dollar based on standard and available equipment the Cadillac was a far better vehicle in both price and performance.