Cadillac's redesigned CTS is enjoying mainstream kudos for returning both Detroit and the vaunted badge to the luxury sedan discussion. Cadillac enthusiasts now await the high-performance variant CTS-V, which according to spy photog Brenda Priddy will use GM's LSA motor, a supercharged small-block V8 good for 500 horsepower. Numbers ranging from 515 to 525 hp, perhaps even higher, have also been rumored.
The 2009 CTS-V will feature a supercharger integrated into the intake manifold, the same setup that the upcoming Corvette SS/Blue Devil will use in its LS9 motor. While the Corvette SS motor will be hand-built at the Performance Build Center in Wixom, Michigan, however, the Lac's LSA will be built in a conventional engine plant.
Automatic and manual transmissions will be available, and an optional paddle shift feature is also anticipated. Production will start in September 2008, and will be limited to about 7000 units annually. Internally, GM is referring to the car as "GMX322 V S/C."
The current CTS-V has reportedly suffered from rear-end problems, specifically wheel hop. The 2009 CTS-V will feature a completely re-done rearend with an improved rear axle which sources say has eliminated wheel hop altogether. The 2009 will continue to utilize a massive set of Brembo brakes in front and back. While the wheels on this prototype are not production-spec, we suspect the wider tires and larger exhaust are.
(Photo credit: Chris Doane for Brenda Priddy & Company)
