What's all this about?
Cadillac is gunning for the German super saloons (and such alternatives as the Vauxhall VXR8 GTS) with its new creation, the CTS-V.
Hasn't it done something like this before?
Yes, the high-performance V-badged version of the CTS has been around since 2004, but has never really lit any fires. This one could be different, though.
How so?
It packs the sort of firepower to embarrass a BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG, two of the finest proponents of the fast four-door art, by utilising the GM group's awesome supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine. Two-valves-per-cylinder tech it may be, but here it can churn out 640hp and 855Nm. Caddy claims 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds, with a top speed of 200mph.
Yeah, but Yank muscle cars have never been slow. Can it go around a corner?
It certainly looks promising on paper, as it has proper multi-link rear suspension and everything. The CTS-V is also fitted with high-performance Brembo brakes, third-generation Magnetic Ride Control (with 40 per cent faster damping response than previous systems), increased torsional rigidity (in the order of 25 per cent), selectable drive modes and forged aluminium 19-inch alloys wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tyres.
Does it stand out from the crowd?
Yes, with restyled bumpers front and rear, the former peppered with huge air intakes to provide flow for the supercharger, blistered wheel arches and a carbon fibre bonnet. Further bits of the exterior can be clothed in carbon as part of an optional styling pack, while inside are Recaro seats and even a function to video your driving, with data overlays on top - think of it as standard fit Go-Pro.
Will it come to the UK?
No word yet on a European version, nor what price it will be, but the Cadillac CTS-V launches in summer 2015 in its home market, with a debut scheduled for the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this month. Let's hope it can come across to bloody the noses of BMW, Audi et al.
Matt Robinson - 22 Dec 2014
