2009 Cadillac CTS-V 525 hp supercharged 6.2 liter LSA motor

2009 Cadillac CTS-V
Paint-shop ready


AutoWeek | Published 06/19/07, 9:42 am et
All Cadillac will say, with a wink, is that we can expect the 2009 CTS V-Series will be “all one color” and not this black-and-white camouflage checkerboard pattern when it arrives in 2008.

But our spies, who captured the second-generation CTS performance sedan running the Nürburgring, say a lot more. Look for the CTS-V—known internally as GMX322 V S/C—to use the LSA engine, a new supercharged, small-block V8 making 525 hp or better.

Chris Doane for Brenda Priddy & Co.

Like the STS-V, the new blown CTS will feature General Motors’ patented supercharger integrated into the intake manifold—the same setup we’re told will be used in the rumored Corvette SS/Blue Devil/Z07. Automatic and manual transmissions will be available, with an optional paddle shifter likely.

The first-gen CTS-V, fitted with a Corvette powertrain and transaxle, suffered from wheel hop. We’re told that’s eliminated in the 2009 model, thanks to a completely redone rear suspension. The ’09 will continue to use massive Brembo brakes all around.

GM vice chairman Bob Lutz says the 2009 CTS-V “will be at a power level only described as unexpectedly high” and that it should rival the BMW M5. After driving a prototype, Lutz reportedly said the car is “flat-out incredible” and that he’s “never driven anything like that.” Yes, we’d expect that from a GM insider, but Lutz does have some of the world’s top machinery at his disposal for comparison purposes.

CTS-V production should get under way in fall 2008 and will be limited to about 7000 units annually.