A station wagon for the family racing-driver
By Nauman Farooq
The Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon is one fine automobile. I should know since I just drove one from Toronto, Canada to New York, U.S.A. and back.
Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon
On this long drive, it proved to be very comfortable, handled beautifully, and was as reliable as a Swiss time piece. I liked it a lot, but chances are I’d like the one they just unveiled at the 2010 New York International Auto Show even more.
I’m talking about the new Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon. This rather harmless looking station wagon has essentially the same 6.2-liter, supercharged V8 that you’ll find in a new Corvette ZR1. While it might be detuned slightly for the Caddi-wagon, it still packs a 556 hp punch. That means, this shopping cart has more punch than the Audi R8 V10 supercar.
With a torque figure of 551 lb/ft, it is no wonder that the CTS-V Sport Wagon will sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, while its top speed is close to 300 km/h. Thankfully it also comes equipped with massive Brembo brakes, to bring you down to legal speeds. So not only will this wagon do the school and grocery run, it will do that while embarrassing some proper sportscars too.
It won’t just keep up with sportscars in the straight line, it can play ball even through the corners thanks to independent suspension all around with magnetic ride damping. Plus this chassis was tuned at the Nurburgring race track in Germany, so be in no doubt, it will handle as well as it goes.
However, unlike in the regular versions of the CTS Sport Wagon, which can be had with optional all-wheel drive, the CTS-V version is only available in rear-wheel drive format.
You do get a choice with the transmission though. The enthusiasts will undoubtedly pick the six-speed manual, while a six-speed automatic with steering wheel mounted pedal shifters is also available for those looking for a fast, daily cruiser.
Perhaps the best thing about this CTS-V Sport Wagon is that it is a bit of a sleeper. Just looking at it, most people won’t have any idea what sort of power is harnessed within. Those with a keen eye will spot the bonnet bulge, the 19-inch wheels wearing Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires, and those massive dual, chrome-tipped exhausts.
The interior is pretty much the same as in any CTS; however the CTS-V does get performance seats with suede inserts. For those who might be taking their car to the track a lot might want to opt for the Recaro racing seats from the options sheet.
The CTS-V Sport Wagon will be available at your local GM dealer by late summer with prices starting at about $75,000.
