2018 Cadillac CTS Pros vs Cons

Cadillac is carving out a name for itself yet again amongst Japanese and German competitors. The 2018 Cadillac CTS is unmistakenly a high-end Cadillac with its massive, shiny logo planted firmly across a stylish, chrome-trimmed grille. What is more important, however, is what you find inside the cabin and under the hood. While the base engine isn't quite as refined as it could be, the V-Sport engine is a spunky option that makes the CTS extremely fun to drive. Regardless of which model you get, you can take comfort in the relaxed-but-high-class cabin and feel the precision of the CTS' handling abilities.

What's New for 2018?

New on the 2018 Cadillac CTS is the Satin Steel Metallic exterior trim, which costs extra. Gone are three former metallic trims (Bronze Dune, Deep Amethyst, and Moonstone). The CTS Black Carbon package is also gone. The power sunroof is now available on V-Sport models, and the heated steering wheel is now automatic. Also, the third-generation Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system replaces the outgoing second-gen system.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Cadillac CTS – The Pros

1. Precision Handling Across the Lineup

Regardless of which model you buy, the 2018 Cadillac CTS has phenomenal handling capabilities. The wheels stick to the road with a solid grasp, and the car maintains its stability even when you get a little risky with your driving. Drivers will feel secure with this vehicle no matter what speed they're going.

2. The V-Sport's Engine

The V-Sport's engine is the best option in this lineup. This 3.0-L V6 turbocharged engine produces an astounding 420 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. Overall, the engine gives a sporty performance that is packed with power and manages to be extremely engaging for a wide variety of drivers.

3. Multiple Customization Options

One of the best things about the 2018 Cadillac CTS is that it has something for everyone. There are plenty of exterior and interior trim options, and you can take your pick between five different trim levels. The base trim is pretty well-loaded with standard features, and the line-topping V-Sport Luxury trim has just about everything you can imagine. There are also a good amount of stand-alone and optional packages to select from.

4. Superior Steering

In addition to its impressive handling, the CTS has some of the best steering capabilities in its class. When you start taking the vehicle up-to-speed, it doesn't forcibly increase the amount of steering effort you have to put in. Instead, it continuously gives the driver a good amount of feedback on what the vehicle is doing.

5. Secure Brakes

The 2018 Cadillac CTS has brakes that will leave you feeling safe behind the wheel. The brakes feel firm, and the pedal is appropriately responsive. If you opt for the performance brake linings, you will get an extra sense of security from the brakes.

6. Comfy Seats

The seats on the CTS are well-bolstered and provide plenty of lateral and lumbar support. The front seats are power-adjustable, and, on the upper trim levels, are heated and ventilated. You can add heated and ventilated front seats on the base trim if you purchase the Seating package, which also includes leather upholstery and split-folding rear seats.

7. Excellent Climate Control

Whether you get dual- or three-zone climate control, you are getting an excellent system. Airflow is evenly distributed to the front and rear of the vehicle, and the car can heat up or cool down pretty quickly. Passengers in the rear can control their own vents, and the fan sticks to an almost inaudible hum.

8. Easy to Find a Driving Position

Finding a comfortable driving position is easy on the CTS. There is an option for 20-way power-adjustable front sport seats, which lend an impeccable amount of adjustability. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel has a broad enough range of adjustment.

9. High-Quality Materials

The CTS' cabin is adorned with some seriously high-quality materials. The interior trim has a polished, glossy finish to it, which looks nice when it is not reflecting light. The paint and paneling look spot-on, and the leather upholstery is gorgeous and well-stitched.

10. Numerous Driver Aids

Optional driver aids abound on the 2018 Cadillac CTS. Standard on the mid-level Luxury trim and above is forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. There is also a camera with a 360-degree-view that comes standard.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Cadillac CTS – The Cons

1. The Base Engine

The base engine on the 2018 Cadillac CTS just isn't that powerful. This 4-cylinder turbocharged engine only generates 268 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is a little below average for its class. The twin-turbo on the V-Sport is a much more exciting option, but you will be paying quite a bit more money to get it.

2. A Small Rear Seat

There isn't much space in the rear. Feet will feel a bit cramped in, and the sloping roofline means that taller passengers have barely any headroom. There are competitors out there with bigger back seats.

3. A Cluttered Center Console

The center console is a mess of awkward controls. It will likely take most drivers time to figure them all out since they aren't well-labeled or organized, and this can be a bit distracting while driving.

4. Ride Quality

Ride quality on the CTS suffers due to its firmness. It is almost too sporty to be a luxury sedan. While the car is easily able to absorb large shocks, occupants will feel every tiny little bump and dip that the vehicle rolls across.

How it Stacks up to the Competition:

2018 Cadillac CTS vs. 2018 Audi A6

The 2018 Audi A6 ranks at the top of the pack for the model year. While its styling is slightly lackluster, the A6 has a superb ride quality, is extremely comfortable to sit in, and has a spacious interior.

2018 Cadillac CTS vs. 2018 BMW 5-Series

The 2018 BMW 5-Series is another top contender, as its cabin is incredibly refined and riddled with standard technological features. The one thing that disappoints about the 5-Series that blind spot monitoring is only optional and not standard on higher trim levels.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2018 Cadillac CTS is a well-rounded vehicle despite its few flaws. Those looking for a sporty luxury sedan will enjoy the V-Sport's engine, which delivers a powerful performance. The various features included on the CTS just make it all the more attractive.