CTS V 's new PTM lauch control is new! Who knows details

Cadillac CTS-V >>

Following closely on the heavy footfalls of the 620-bhp Corvette ZR1, the next-generation Cadillac CTS-V might appear, at first glance, to be walking softly. But it delivers a serious punch. While the previous CTS-V's LS6 V-8 pumped out a more-than-useful 400 bhp, the new car is up to a monstrous 550 bhp! That's sure to give the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG a real run for their money. Essentially, the new CTS-V uses the same engine as the ZR1, a supercharged 6.2-liter small-block V-8, though with a smaller 4-lobe Eaton compressor.

But it's not just a CTS with more power; the V gets 6-piston Brembo front brake calipers clamping on 15.0-in. rotors, with 4-piston calipers at the rear grabbing 14.7-in. rotors, all nicely filling out the 19-in. forged alloy wheels shod with sticky summer Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires — 255/40R-19 front and 285/35R-19 rear. Combined with the latest generation of Magnetic Ride Control and a stability-control system that features a Performance Traction Management (PTM) system, the CTS-V is sure to handle well.


The new PTM feature is designed to improve lap times by regulating torque delivery to the rear wheels. Thus it works more like a race car's traction control than the safety systems we see on most production cars. A form of launch control is said to be included.

The engine matches its horsepower figure with commensurate amounts of torque. To keep wheel hop to a minimum, the rear halfshafts are asymmetrical, and the active dampers have software to maximize rear grip when launching from a standstill — again technology derived from the Corvette ZR1. Of course, the MRC has the ability to switch ride quality between comfort and sport as well.

What the CTS-V doesn't share with the ZR1 is its rear-mounted transaxle. The V features a conventional setup, with a new Tremec TR 6060 6-speed manual transmission and twin-disc clutch mounted directly behind the engine. We hope this setup will be more refined than its notoriously clunky predecessor. Recognizing a weak spot, GM now makes the previously somewhat-fragile limited-slip differential case from cast iron. And for the first time, a 6-speed automatic will be offered on the CTS-V — the new Hydra-Matic 6L90, complete with paddle shifters.

Inside, the CTS-V features power Recaro seats, Bose audio with a 40-gigabyte hard drive and navigation. Microfiber synthetic suede covers the steering wheel, shift lever and seats. Although the V retains the rest of the standard CTS features, it's clear this car is being treated as a Corvette with four doors. Which surely seems like a recipe for success.