Cadillac CTS-V

Auto Express Car Reviews

Text: Automedia / Photos: Automedia

28th June 2007

The 2009 CTS-V will use the 'LSA' motor. This is another new supercharged, small block V8. This new blown V8 will be good for at least 500hp.

The car will feature a supercharger integrated into the intake manifold. This is the same set-up the forthcoming Corvette SS/Blue Devil will have with its LS9 motor. However, while the Corvette SS motor will be handbuilt at the Performance Build Center in Wixom, MI, the Cadillac's LSA motor will be built in a conventional motor assembly plant.

Automatic and manual transmissions will be available, and an optional paddle shift feature is also anticipated. Production on the new CTS V-Series will start in September of 2008, and will limited to about 7000 units annually. Internally, GM is referring to the car as 'GMX322 V S/C.'

In the past, the current CTS-V has suffered from rear-end problems. Specifically, wheel hop. The 2009 CTS-V will feature a completely re-vamped rear end with a much better control. Sources say this has eliminated the wheel hop issue altogether. The '09 will continue to utilize a massive set of brembo brakes up front and in back. While the wheels on this prototype are not production spec, the wider tires and larger exhaust pipes certainly are.