Vehicle: 2003 Cadillac CTS with 5-speed auto and sports suspension

Performance: CTS is powered by a 3.2 liter V6 engine that bumps out 220hp and 218 lb/ft of torque. The instant throttle response is quick and linear. The low-end torque also performs relatively well, however, this engine tends to run breathless at high rpm. That remains a problem as you used “sports” mode in the smooth 5-speed auto box. The auto shifts accordingly with its fuzzy logic control. The sports mode has given a choice that you can shift at higher rpm for sportier driving. That lies the problem which this V6 easily runs out of breath somewhere above 4800 rpm. The good news is CTS will benefit from a new engine sometimes in 2004.

Handling: With its RWD, near 50/50 perfect balance and a stiff chassis. CTS handles very well with its optional sports suspension. The suspension absorbs bumps comfortably without jerking the ride. Steering provides feedback that feels downright European, it offers decent on and off-center feel. Body roll remains an issue, however, its very well tempted. The whole dynamic package has given driver reasonable control + confidence through corners without sacificing the ride comfort. However, there are 2 major drawbacks. All these drawbacks have to do with its Stabiliztrak stability control system. Firstly, you can turn the Stabiliztak off. That means you stuck with this system 100% of the time. Secondly, this stability control kicks in like madness as you try to let the tail out. Its a very annoying and instrusive system. Considered Cadillac wants CTS to challenge the best of sports sedans from Germany and Japan, they need to give drivers more thrill. Thrill doesn’t mean stability system kicks in at anytime.

Brakes: The brake application for CTS is excellent. The pedal feels firm and direct. Effort is balanced.

Interior: The leather seats are very comfortable inside the CTS. The instrumentation gauges are easily read and stereo/climate controls are ergonomically placed. On the other hand, there are couple of complaints.
The steering feels too large for a sports sedan. Its tilt function doesn’t serve well to find a perfect driving position. This steering belongs to Escalade, not CTS. Secondly, the grey plastic and wood trim look out of place with black leather. Wood trim feels like an afterthought in CTS’s interior design implementation. Thirdly, center area consists of trip computer, stereo and climate control look blocky despite they are placed close to hand. Lastly, there are some cheap plastic surface around the cupholders and ashtray area. The good news is Cadillac has ordered to redesign the CTS’s interior due next year.

The back seats are comfortable, with plenty of head and legroom. The trunk is large, comes with uninstrusive trunk hingles and cargo net. The problem is the liftover is a bit high because of the exterior design.

Conclusion: Cadillac has done a very good job on the CTS, in terms of driving dynamics and braking. CTS will be a real contender as soon as it receives a redesigned interior and a new powerplant that won’t run out of breath at high rpm. The most importantly, they need to put a switch for Stabiliztrak.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2003 CADILLAC CTS
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Performance: 2/5
Handling/fun-to-drive: 3.5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 3/5
Fit-and-finish/built quality: 3.75/5
Value-for-money: 2.25/5

Overall rating: 3/5