LexFather

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/...son/index.html



Yet where it really matters, as a performance sedan, the CTS-V soundly spanks the M5. It's quicker in a straight line, handles better, steers better, even rides better (credit those amazing, multitalented magnetorheological shocks).

An all-new M5, rumored to develop 600-plus horsepower, is coming for 2011. Until then, though, it's the Cadillac CTS-V that best reflects the supersedan state of the art.

FIRST PLACE: Cadillac CTS-V
Glitzy exterior and cabin plus some finish issues detract from premium feel, but delivers where it counts. A Corvette ZR1 in four-door attire -- and a bargain to boot.

SECOND PLACE: BMW M5
Masterfully executed, but priced accordingly. Handling not on par with BMW's best, though, and V-10 power no match for Caddy's supercharged V-8.

bad co

I want to see C & D comparo, let me guess who would win (the m5).

pbm317

I don't think so, I think all mags and other sources right now will say the Caddy beats the M5, but they'll also claim the M5 is on its last legs, and the next M5 will blow the CTS-V back out of the water. But who knows what will happen with the next gen of super cars as everything tightens down. BMW has noted that the next gen cars may go down in displacement, etc.

bad co

My issue with the CTS V is that it doesnt know what it is. Is the M5 and the E63 its competition or the C63 IS-F and M3 due to its pricing, but than it's also a lot bigger car too. The V8 on the CTS V sounds sick but the you throw a Kresseig(sp) exhaust on a M5 and you will have trouble distingushing that sound from a Gallardo's. This is my friend Marty's car. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ybQGi01wd8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3V3m9EbSOlk

CDNROCKIES

I'm not sure why this "identity crisis" is a bad thing?

It depends on the criteria that you are comparing. The only reason that it gets lumped in with the C63, M3, and IS F is price. In size, performance and style it is much closer to the E63 and M5.

The CTS-V, and not the GT-R is the best bang for the buck on the road at the moment.

If I had my way, it would have been the V in our garage and not the ML....but ultimately the wife won.

DASHOCKER

iTrader: (2)

Amazing machines! I posted a track comparo vid of both beasts here..

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/car...nd-bmw-m5.html

habeeb89

iTrader: (3)

I am not surprised at all, the CTS-V is a beautiful work of art and engineering. For the money's worth the CTS is a def. win.

duboseq

Awesome car and great bang for the buck!

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

cts-v is state of the art for a mid-size sedan performance/luxury balance.
and a great value.

LexFather

Okay we do agree on something. I was worried.

LexLaw

I can't find anything wrong with what Cadillac has done in regards to their CTS line-up. The V is simply a sexy beast!

caymandive

iTrader: (2)

If the CTS-V was available when I picked up the IS-F I can honestly say I would have got that instead. Oh well I don't have any regrets as the F is keeping me happy, but I sometimes wonder what if....

pvmike1

Great article Mike. I really like the CTS-V. I agree with the article that the car's a bit too shiny for my taste. I had actually pondered the cost of taking off all the chrome bits (grill, emblems, wheels, trim) to cover in a PermaStar black chrome coating. Of course I wanted to do this to an all black CTS-V...

Helmets with PermaStar chrome and black chrome:

TXSTYLE

iTrader: (1)

Now only if Daddy/GM would be smart enough to drop this engine, tranny and the such inside of the XLR....

CDNROCKIES

Ditto for myself as well.