2005 Cadillac CTS-V

Power is delivered through a six-speed manual Tremec T56 transmission with a dual-mass flywheel for reduced noise and vibration harshness. A heavy-duty, increased diameter (70-mm) prop shaft is used to handle the LS6's higher torque, and the limited-slip rear axle has an aggressive 3.73:1 final drive ratio to optimize acceleration.


Suspension refinements include hydroformed front and rear cradles to handle the engine's greater mass and torque while enhancing NVH; larger stabilizer bars to limit body roll during hard cornering; larger monotube front shocks to increase damping and thermal performance; nivomat rear shocks that automatically adapt damping rates to changing load conditions; stiffer front and rear springs; and performance-tuned elastomeric ride bushings in the aluminum control arms for precise on-center feel and improved high-speed braking performance.


The standard StabiliTrak system helps to maintain the driver's intended path by applying brake force independently and selectively at any corner. It includes four driver-selected modes, including a competition mode for impressive track performance. The Brembo 14-inch front and 14.4-inch rear disc brakes with aluminum four-piston calipers at all four corners enable awesome deceleration. Also standard are V-specific 7-spoke 18x8.5-inch aluminum wheels and Goodyear P245/45WR18 EMT run-flat tires. A tower-to-tower cross-car brace under the hood improves steering response and linearity. And, to help reduce underhood noise, a unique nylon cover with the Cadillac wreath and crest and V-Series logo is fitted over the top of the engine.

Leather-covered front sport seats have power lumbar adjusters and suede fabric inserts to help keep driver and passenger in place during aggressive cornering.

The CTS-V instrument cluster has aircraft-style white-on-black lettering for legibility and satin chrome rings around each gauge. It also has not just one but two driver information centers (DICs). One displays performance information including oil, transmission and coolant temperatures, oil and tire pressures and even peak and momentary lateral acceleration. The other gives odometer, digital speedometer and reverse gear and skip-shift indicators.