2012 Cadillac CTS
This CTS is a serious sports sedan that requires no apologies. The fresh interior design is complemented with high quality materials. Engine choices include a 3.0l V6 (270-bhp), a 3.6l V6 (318-bhp) and the outrageous 556-bhp, 6.2l V8. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual or automatic. Optional AWD and a limited-slip differential provide additional traction. In theory, the CTS competes with compact premium models like the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-class. However the larger proportions of the CTS are closer to mid-sized models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Prices start in the low about $40,000s for a model with leather seats and an automatic transmission.
2012 Cadillac CTS Coupe
The BMW 3-Series is considered a benchmark in the compact luxury market. Like BMW, many automakers choose to add incremental sales with new body styles. The new Cadillac CTS coupe joined the well-regarded sedan and sport wagon models for the 2011 model year. The CTS Coupe features 2+2 seating for four passengers. A standard 3.6L V6 engine is paired with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models are available. For ultimate bragging rights, the high-performance CTS-V packs a 556-bhp supercharged V8 motor under the hood. Like the sedan, the CTS coupe is larger on the outside than the BMW 3-Series and Infiniti G, its two closest competitors.
2012 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon
Cadillac's CTS lineup also includes a station wagon. The CTS Sport Wagon's proportions are virtually identical to the sedan adding only one inch of height. The CTS wagon holds up to five passengers in two rows of seats. The hatchback lifts up high out of the way giving access to a storage area that is almost twice that of the sedan. Engine choices mirror those of the sedan with a 3.0l V6, 3.6l V6 and the high performance V8 (CTS-V). Although the CTS promises a rewarding sedan like driving experience, its relatively high sticker price will force prospective buyers to shop less expensive luxury crossovers like the Cadillac SRX or Audi Q5.
2012 Cadillac Escalade
In 1999, GM slapped a Cadillac face on its popular Tahoe/Yukon SUV, creating an ostentatious status symbol in the long tradition of Cadillac. Now in its third generation, the Escalade includes a standard 6.2l V8 engine and upgraded interior to help justify a $20,000 price premium over its siblings. One advantage the full-sized GM SUVs (Escalade/Tahoe/Yukon) have is the availability of a hybrid powertrain. Fuel Economy in the Escalade Hybrid jumps to 20/23 (city/highway) while still maintaining a 5000+ lb. tow rating. Unfortunately the hybrid powertrain is a pricey upgrade at $10,000. Although full-size SUVs have become popular as family haulers, their only real advantage is higher tow ratings of over 7500 lbs. Full-size SUVs with truck underpinnings are robbed of interior space with the body mounted over the frame. Most buyers would be better served with a crossover SUV such as the GMC Acadia. Many offer similar legroom with improved cargo capacity and fuel efficiency for less money.
2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV
In 1999, GM slapped a Cadillac face on its popular Tahoe/Suburban/Yukon SUVs, creating an ostentatious status symbol in the long tradition of Cadillac. Now in its third generation, the Escalade includes a standard 6.2l V8 engine and upgraded interior to help justify a $20,000 price premium over its siblings. Like the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL, the Escalade ESV is a longer wheelbase version of the GMs full-size SUVS adding some 14 inches in length. The added length improves the usability of both the 3rd row seat and the cargo area. Although full-size SUVs have become popular as family haulers, their only real advantage is tow ratings of over 7500 lbs. Full-size SUVs with truck underpinnings are robbed of interior space with the body mounted over the frame. Most buyers would be better served with a crossover SUV such as the GMC Acadia. Many offer similar legroom with improved cargo capacity and fuel efficiency for less money.
2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT
Imagine taking a full-sized Escalade ESV and cutting off the back portion. That's the basic idea of the Escalade EXT. The EXT features a small exposed truck bed separated from the passenger compartment by a type of a door called a midgate. The 2nd row seats can be folded and the midgate lowered to extend the cargo area from behind the driver's seat through to the back of the bed. Similar to the Escalade and Escalade ESV, the EXT model is powered by a 403-bhp 6.2L V8. A six-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive are standard. While the EXT is comprehensively equipped, it is significantly more expensive and capable than a similarly equipped full-sized pickup truck.
2012 Cadillac SRX
The original Cadillac SRX was one of the first wagon-like vehicles to be marketed as a crossover vehicle. The second generation model introduced in 2010 is a smaller and more athletic vehicle. While the original had three rows of seats the current SRX is strictly a five passenger vehicle. In terms of size, the SRX is very similar to the Lexus RX. The SRX is longer and wider on the outside, but slightly smaller on the inside. A 3.6 l V6 engine is standard on both FWD and AWD models. Priced from $36,000, buyers must choose at least the Luxury package to equip leather seats which pushes the price over $40,000.
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