The third CTS makes the most of the Alpha platform to gain in rigour, perceived lightness and precision without abandoning the large Cadillac saloon status. The size remains generous, but the behaviour becomes more refined than on the previous generation, with a genuine feeling of a better-engineered car. In this configuration it clearly plays on the ground of a BMW 5 Series or a large German sporting saloon, while keeping a rarer and more angular style.
The 2.0 turbo LTG opens the range, the 3.6 V6 holds the mainstream and the V-Sport LF3 and CTS-V LT4 push the car firmly into super-saloon territory. This generation also depends on denser electronics: an 8-speed automatic, the CUE system, driver aids and, depending on version, AWD. A well-maintained CTS III is very rewarding, but a neglected one quickly loses its finesse through poor gearbox calibration, a tired screen or a front axle that has started to wander.