2005 Cadillac CTS
Manufacturer: Cadillac Part number: 100487673
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- A well-engineered power plant and nicely accessible dashboard electronics make the Cadillac CTS a good ride, but a few quirks hold it back.
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CNET editors' review
2005 Cadillac CTS price range: $30,885.00
- Reviewed by: Carey Russ
- Edited by: Wayne Cunningham
- Reviewed on: 07/06/2005
The good: Distinctive exterior styling; nav system with real-time traffic data and dual-view display; willing engine and six-speed gearbox.
The bad: Plasticky interior; no integration between nav system and contact database; shift linkage needs refinement.
The bottom line: A well-engineered power plant and nicely accessible dashboard electronics make the Cadillac CTS a good ride, but a few quirks hold it back.
With the exception of the optional systems mentioned previously, CTS technology is more oriented toward driving than gadgets, as highlighted by the usual contemporary engine-management electronics and the ultra-high-strength steel welded into the chassis structure. RDS radio and DSP are available with only the optional Bose audio system. There is no backup camera or any form of cell phone integration. DVD movies can be played in the navigation DVD player, but you must first remove the navigation disc and put the car in neutral (manual) or park (automatic).
Angles and curves
Onlooker reaction to the 2005 Cadillac CTS's angular stealth-fighter exterior styling is of the love-it-or-hate-it variety, but the car definitely gets noticed. Inside, the center console looks somewhat like a PC tower case of the curvy variety designed to fit in at home--but it is functional. The LCD screen for XM radio and the DVD navigation system dominates that interesting piece of styling, and Cadillac thankfully has not overcomplicated the user interface. Audio, navigation, and traffic modes are controlled by two rotary push buttons at the bottom, hard-coded buttons on the left side, and context-sensitive buttons to the right of the screen. Everything is either well marked or very logical, and using the system doesn't require intense study of the owner's manual.
The map display can be viewed in North Up, Heading Up, or Bird's-Eye views. Although you can beam address-book information into the car's contact database from a handheld or a cell phone via infrared, you can't directly feed these addresses into the car's navigation system--a disturbing oversight. Voice-recognition technology allows a voice-activated command interface for most audio and navigation functions. Volume and channel switching can also be controlled from the steering wheel; the rotary volume control is particularly useful.
The front seats, similar to those found in larger Cadillacs, are power adjustable and relatively flat for easy access, with adequate bolstering for performance driving. The front shoulder straps anchor directly to the seats. The rear seats have more room than those of most competitors. A pass-through is standard, with a split-folding feature optional. Unfortunately, although the navigation and audio systems get high marks for design, the same can't be said of the textured plastic used for most interior panels. It looks and feels cheap, not like anything that should be in a Cadillac.
Earning a place in its class
Our test car had the 3.6-liter V-6, an aluminum-alloy twin-cam, 24-valve unit with variable valve timing. Mated to a six-speed Aisin manual transmission, it's rated at 255 horsepower at 6,200rpm, with 252 pound-feet of torque at 3,200rpm. The available automatic is a five-speed, comparable to the automatics in competitive cars. Sound like a recipe for performance? Indeed, but like many modern high-revving engines, this one is merely adequate at low revs. It gets happier as it revs higher, with a strong midrange and high end.
The standard-equipment six-speed gearbox is a good match for the engine, although we weren't impressed with the shift linkage. We got 21mpg on average, driving mostly moderately and with a good mix of city and highway miles--competitive with most other cars in this class. Like the engine, the suspension gets happier as it gets pushed harder. Even with the firmer springs and shocks of the Sport package, ride comfort is very good in normal operation. Ride it harder in the corners, and the 2005 Cadillac CTS digs in, with enthusiasm. It's very comparable to the best from the German and Japanese competition.
Like most modern luxury cars, the Cadillac CTS has standard dual-stage front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags. Cadillac includes OnStar with a free one-year subscription to the Safe and Sound feature package. Xenon High Intensity Discharge headlights are available. The Stabilitrak 2.0 stability-enhancement system comes as part of the Sport package. With relatively transparent operation, it controls understeer or oversteer by gentle application of one or more individual brakes and gently decreases engine power if it deems that is necessary. It can be disengaged for high-performance driving. Strong brakes are a necessary match for a strong engine, and the Cadillac CTS scores high with four-wheel vented discs with standard antilock and traction control. The CTS is covered by a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.
User reviews
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Cadilac CTS V is an amazing performer.
by cadillacace on February 5, 2006
Pros: Incredible handeling,smooth ride for a performance vehical
Cons: Gas milage. Needs winter tires inoder to maneuver in snow
Summary: I can't express how much I love this car. I have had the CTS V for one year and I look forward to driving eveverytime I step into it. ...
Summary: I can't express how much I love this car. I have had the CTS V for one year and I look forward to driving eveverytime I step into it.
The CTS is a nice car. The CTS V is a spectacular car. It has more legroom and a better styled interior than the base CTS. I also perfered it to the STS. The STS has an extra thick door column that rubs on the shoulders. I have ownwed an Audi, Volvo, and Saab and driven my brothers BMW and several Chryslor 300 models. Although this car has a European feel it easily outperforms them all. Even though this is a 400 horsepower performance car it is smooth and comfortable on the highway. Because the car is rear wheel drive it has an amazing turning radius but it will not move in the snow without winter tires. I recomend Nokian WR's. The factory Goodyears help accelerate the car to 0-60 in under 5 seconds but they only have a 10,000 mile treadlife. If you are shoping for a luxury performance car this car should be on your list8 out of 9 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Like my CTS-V better than my Audi S4
by Big Sky on December 25, 2005
Pros: Great nav system & stereo, tire pressure monitor, excellent handling & brakes, strong engine. Love the adjustable traction control.
Cons: Interior is nice, but its no Audi
Summary: I had an Audi S4 which I loved. When it was stolen, I test drove every high performance Audi, BMW and Mercedes. I liked the Cadillac the best and after ...
Summary: I had an Audi S4 which I loved. When it was stolen, I test drove every high performance Audi, BMW and Mercedes. I liked the Cadillac the best and after 30,000 miles, I still like it better than my Audi. I have the hot V version with 400 horsepower. It is a rocket. But I have driven the regular CTS on more than one occasion and it shares all of my V's great attributes except the insane acceleration. This is a great car and everytime I drive it, it puts a smile on my face.
4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Still fun to drive after 3 years
by Barrybud on July 15, 2005
Pros: Looks, Speed, handling, plus I get 24 MPG
Cons: Sound of turn signal, FM reception, changing headlight bulb
Summary: I got the CTS Sept 2002 and after all this time I still really enjoy driving it. Its very fast off the line and has power to jump from 60 ...
Summary: I got the CTS Sept 2002 and after all this time I still really enjoy driving it. Its very fast off the line and has power to jump from 60 to 80 in seconds. After teaming the car with a set of Goodyear TripleTreads it sticks to the road like glue. If you are concerned about the rear drive in the snow, don?t be. I will never go back to a front drive car again!!
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Fun everyday car
by Neutrocuted on June 12, 2006
Pros: Power, sweet transmission and plenty of control
Cons: Differential noise, wheel hop and goofy sunroof
Summary: I've had my 3.6L 2004 CTS for 2 years and have had a few problems with it. I enjoy the performance of the engine and trans combo... especially ...
Summary: I've had my 3.6L 2004 CTS for 2 years and have had a few problems with it. I enjoy the performance of the engine and trans combo... especially in sport mode. I switched to 18" wheels w/225-45 rubber which made a world of difference in handling and control without bouncing down the street with rock hard springs.
I was surprised with the excellent... not superior, fit and finish and have learned to enjoy the styling.
I test drove many different cars in the same price range, new and used, and found this to be the best performer out there.
I love rear drivers for performance driving, but don't let anyone tell you different... they really suck in the snow.
I had to buy Yokohama Ice Guard snow tires to mount on my original rims which helped a little, but not much.
For my dollars it was the best thing going at the time of my purchase and still love driving it.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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An excellent sport touring automobile.
by geopaq on September 22, 2006
Pros: Power, luxury and fuel economy!!
Cons: The trunk opening could be a bit wider.
Summary: The fit and finish on this car is excellent and the 3.6 liter V6 teamed with the 5 speed automatic delivers plenty of passing power while allowing 28 mpg ...
Summary: The fit and finish on this car is excellent and the 3.6 liter V6 teamed with the 5 speed automatic delivers plenty of passing power while allowing 28 mpg on the highway. 46,000 miles and not one problem. In the 33-36K range this car has no equal! I wish the trunk opening was a bit wider to more easily accomadate golf clubs with bags.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Mistake in CNET video review
by crazyrman on December 31, 2005
Pros: A well thought out car. Everything is standard
Cons: How do you clean a suede interior? Not a practical choice.
Summary: I just watched the CNET video for the first time. He states that the NAV system can't play a DVD. That is incorrect. You can play a DVD, emergency ...
Summary: I just watched the CNET video for the first time. He states that the NAV system can't play a DVD. That is incorrect. You can play a DVD, emergency brake has to be pressed. I'm one of the lucky few to own a CTS-V. I love it.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Balanced Caddy that Does Everything Extremely Well!
Pros: Surprising Quickness, Agility in Handling and Gorgeous Looks makes this Excellent Mid-Size Sedan Fun to Drive, a Superb All-Around Performer and an Excellent Pre-Owned Purchase Value!!!
Cons: None So Far!
Summary: While checking out the offerings at our local Cadillac dealer pre-owned showcase, we became Pleasantly Surprised at the wonderful selections being offered and re-discovered a jewel in the automotive world. ...
Summary: While checking out the offerings at our local Cadillac dealer pre-owned showcase, we became Pleasantly Surprised at the wonderful selections being offered and re-discovered a jewel in the automotive world. We found and bought an 05' CTS, one of several pre-owned lease\auction sedans that the dealer had in inventory. With an Immaculate White Diamond Exterior, showroom-clean interior and under hood cleanliness that beguiles it's 20K mile odometer reading, we obtained this BEAUTIFUL CTS for $17,000, a deal that has become all the more sweet as we have put a couple of thousand miles on it!
My humbled attempt will be to simply portray our experiences and point of view of the Cadillac 2005 CTS so that maybe You Too can get a feel for what this sedan offers! Now, for the Good Parts!!
1. Style. As stated in many corners, the Cadillac CTS has a distinctive visual appeal that either you Love, or Hate. In our case, we Loved the Look since they came out in 2003! Sharp lines, definitive curves and a strong presence helps this 4-door sedan look as if it Owns the Road, not just rolling lazily along. I actually prefer the 05' CTS to the new 09' body changes. The White Diamond Clear Coat paint scheme is very attractive and rich looking, a color that was love at first sight since we first saw it in 05'. To us, this CTS is a Looker that has garnered stares wherever we go...Amazing for a product that is now in its Seventh year!
2. Performance. Well, I was Immediately Impressed in 2005 with the continuous torque and power that the 255 hp 3.6L V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission provided, and still find 2009 and 20K miles more, No Exception to that impression! The command of speed is somewhat AWE inspiring, at All ranges. It is as if the accelerator is wireless attached to my thought process, it Goes when I want
eed it to Go. There is virtually no perceived hesitation in response of the RPM's, and the pull of the gearshift is smooth, seamless and powerful. It Clearly out performs the wonderful 3.8L V6's I had in the Olds and Buicks, not so easy a task! Simply put, the Drive train is engineered to get the most out of a moderately sized ICE!!
3. Handling. Responsive is the key word in this CTS. I've driven a few autos by Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and Audi and find this CTS Steering is as tight, responsive, smooth and precise as other luxury class sedans. The CTS really has a snug feel for the road, but without stiffness or heavy road vibration feedback. It's somewhat sporty with that precise command of direction that lets you always feel in control. However, in town or on the interstate in heavy traffic, the driving ease and comfort is all Cadillac Luxury! The Ride is Very Quiet and smooth, but with a hint of low vibe road sound, the kind that lets you know where you are without being oppressively muted. Braking is OMG, Great!! There's no play in the brake pedal and stopping action is very solid, smooth and precise. Even on wet roads, traction appears to be as sure gripping as dry pavement.
4. Fuel Economy. We drive a mixture of 50% highway, 50% stop-go. We' ve been well pleased with the 21-22 mpg economy with this type of driving, and pleased with the 26-27 mpg highway performance. It's not as good as the 05' Impala that has the 3.4L V6, but close enough given the Extreme increase in performance the CTS 3.6L puts out!
5. Ergonomics. I've not researched many of the newest luxury sedans that are currently on the market (domestic and foreign), but feel that the amenities, features, options and extras that the 05' CTS has is Very Satisfying! Controls are logically placed and easy to access, simple to understand, user-friendly and well thought out. Seating control and comfort is excellent, with plenty of room in the front bucket seats and a comfortable rear seating capacity. The leather interior is very fine looking with a soft, but supportive texture that appears to wear superbly and provides easy maintenance. Although the general exterior body design displays what looks to be possible sight problems, we have not found the CTS to be constrictive or problematic of driver exterior visibility.
6. Audio. The 7 speaker, Bose sound system has proven to be Very Enjoyable and fulfilling. It certainly won't Rock Your Neighbor on the street, but does create a well-balanced, full frequency spectrum at listening levels that can easily satisfy the most critical audiophile! It is "Clearly" the Best car audio (from the manufacture) that I've ever heard. I've been in audio-electronics for 35 years and a music teacher-performer for even longer...I Know Good Sound!
7. Value. Well, for the $$$ we gave for our Gorgeous 2005 Cadillac CTS ($17K), with 20K miles on her, in Like-New Condition and still with 9 months left of the 4 year bumper to bumper GM warranty, I think we made a Great Dollar Value Purchase!!!
In all, I'm hopeful that this CTS deal we feel so strong about today will still prove the right choice in the future! -
Poor quality a real disappointment
by ureymiller on May 11, 2008
Pros: Great handling and power, was really fun to drive. Handled like a sports car.
Cons: Road noise a real distraction. Numerous mechanical failures. Interior quarter panel came loose, the CD player had to be replaced, the trunk latch failed and had to be replaced, etc.
Summary: I just got rid of my CTS for a Lexus. The quality of my CTS was abysmal. Not what you would expect from a Cadillac. Will never own another one.
Summary: I just got rid of my CTS for a Lexus. The quality of my CTS was abysmal. Not what you would expect from a Cadillac. Will never own another one.
0 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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GM Has to be able to do better than this!
by bumpy9999 on March 22, 2007
Pros: Decent engine
Cons: Fit & Finish, brakes, poor electronics, manual gearbox.
Summary: I have driven a 3.6 VVT for 2 years and I am very dissatisfied with it. First off, GM need to do a better job of building cars. I ...
Summary: I have driven a 3.6 VVT for 2 years and I am very dissatisfied with it. First off, GM need to do a better job of building cars. I heard so many great things about the CTS and the test drive was great. The first week, the stability system came on out of the blue while I was doing 140 km. Not good. The computer was changed and the problem was back the next day. 4 computers later, still the same crap. I have bubbles in the paint in the hood. The AISN manual gearbox is junk. Get in traffic in the summer and good luck shifting. This bucket of bolts lives at the dealer. Maybe I got a lemon, but this is last GM product I will buy. Go for a G35 or a Maxima. Much better car for less monry.
GM has got to get their act together. The CTS is just another GM in a long list of poorly made cars.0 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Anything but upscale
by sanbar805 on November 21, 2005
Pros: Unique styling for an American car, pretty good engine
Cons: CHEAP interior, dumpest navigation system ever, even has cheap looking/feeling keys
Summary: While this car is a decent handler and has a fairly good engine this can not make up for the fact that the interior is very Cheap (control buttons would ...
Summary: While this car is a decent handler and has a fairly good engine this can not make up for the fact that the interior is very Cheap (control buttons would shame a Ford Escort from 10 years ago). Lots of hard plastic, this is no Audi/BMW replacement, stop fooling yourself. Navigation system has old looking graphics and is hard to program. Outside build quility was also poor (car looks like it was make out of huge legos, no joke), it really becomes clear that this is not an upscale vehicle no matter how much GM tells people it is. On the plus side GM offers extreme discounts on this car, maybe that should actually tell you something as well...If you want a premium product keep on looking.
2 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Cadillac
- Part number: 100487673
- Bottom Line: A well-engineered power plant and nicely accessible dashboard electronics make the Cadillac CTS a good ride, but a few quirks hold it back.
Basic car properties
- Body style sedan
- Trim levels Base
- Available Engine Gas
Safety Features
- Smart airbags Standard
- Antilock brakes Standard
- Traction control Standard
- Stability control Optional
- Back-up cameras Not available
- Heads-up display Not available
- Collision avoidance Not available
- Steerable headlights Not available
- Roadside assistance Not available
- Adaptive cruise control Standard
- Rain-sensitive wipers Not available
- Lane departure warning Not available
Entertainment
- 5 channel audio Not available
- HD radio Not available
- Satellite radio Optional
- Satellite video Not available
- Video entertainment system Not available
- Multizone entertainment Not available
- Connection for portable MP3 sound system Not available
- MP3 CD-enabled sound system Not available
- Media hard-disk MP3 sound system Not available
- Active noise cancelling Not available
- DIN-compatible bays Not available
- Memory card slot Not available
- USB connection Not available
Climate/convenience
- Multizone climate control Standard
- Smart (set-and-forget) climate control Not available
- Heated/cooled seats Optional
- Integrated interface (iDrive, for example) Not available
- Keyless entry Standard
- Keyless start Not available
- Remote start Not available
- Two-way security system Standard
- 120V power outlet Not available
- 12V power outlet Standard
Drivetrain Technology
- Drivetrain available rear-drive
- All-wheel steering Not available
- Steer by wire Not available
- Brake by wire Not available
- Drive by wire Not available
- Active suspension Not available
- Electronically controlled suspension Not available
Navigation
- GPS Navigation system - DVD data Standard
- Trip computer Not available
- Live traffic data Optional
- Touchscreen navigation Not available
- Voice activated navigation Not available
- DVD navigation system (non-GPS) Standard
Communication
- Bluetooth phone interface Not available
- Wi-Fi Not available
- Internet access - cellular Not available
- Internet access - satellite Not available
- OnStar or other roadside assistance system Standard
- Vehicle Web support Not available
- Home automation integration Optional
Manufacturer info
- Cadillac
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Cadillac products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.cadillac.com
- Address:
Cadillac Customer Assistance Center, Detroit, MI 48232-5169 - Phone: 1-800-333-4CAD
