On the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show, Automotive Rhythms was invited to a private viewing of the 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe. Under the hue of soft purple and white lighting, the CTS Coupe was set amongst the Cadillac 2010 line-up as the centerpiece of attraction.
It’s been several years since Cadillac produced its last coupe. Why the new CTS? According to Clay Dean, Cadillac’s Global Design Director, “Designers love coupes, they’re low, they’re seductive, and they’re sleek. It’s taken about three years to get out in the marketplace; we had a concept version of this at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show and now it’s here!”
Cadillac’s “Art and Science” philosophy is highlighted in the overall makeup of the CTS Coupe. Tech-wise, the car features a 40GB hard drive, 8-inch touch screen navigation system and integrated Bose 5.1 surround sound system. The CTS Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.6-liter direct injected V6 engine producing 304 horsepower and 273 pound feet of torque mated to an available six speed manual transmission.
The CTS Coupe’s exterior styling features a low roof line with a sculpted roof mounted antenna for OnStar and XM Radio, fender flares, a center mounted dual exhaust and a seamless door entry via a hidden, push button door release; a design feature from the Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac XLR. The CTS Coupe driver will find premium interior details including performance seating, French stitching, leather wrapped steering wheel and available Sapele wood. The CTS Coupe will be available in rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional. Soon to follow will be a high powered rear-wheel drive CTS-V coupe (expected to be introduced at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show).
The CTS Coupe blends contemporary luxury with quality power performance and is being referred to by GM as the focal point of Cadillac going forward.
Though performance oriented, the CTS Coupe gets an excellent estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Expect it in Cadillac showrooms early spring next year. Prices have not yet been set, but are expected to begin in the low $40,000 range.
