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Spy Shots

Spy Shots—Cadillac CTS-V Coupe Escapes the Axe

GM shocked enthusiasts with news that it was disbanding its High Performance Vehicle Operations (HPVO ) team, the same crew responsible for V-series Cadillacs, the Chevy Cobalt SS and HHR SS. But spy photographer Brenda Priddy tells us that the HPVO team still has one trick up its sleeve.

"The last time we saw a CTS Coupe V-series prototype was in August 2008," Priddy says. "It's absence since then, combined with GM's Viability Plan submitted to Congress, had many thinking the hot-rod coupe had been killed off. These new photos show that the V-series coupe is alive and well."

Compared to the prototypes spied in August, Priddy says these look production-ready down to the wheels, exhaust tips and V-series badging. The wire mesh grilles, power dome hood, wider tires, larger wheels, huge brake calipers and two massive, center-mount exhaust outlets also haven't changed. Under that power dome hood is the 6.2L, supercharged V8 motor known as the LSA. Good for 556 hp and 551 lb.-ft. in the CTS-V sedan, we expect the Coupe V ratings to be very similar.

Expect the V-series coupe to start production next summer when the regular coupe starts rolling down the line at the Lansing Grand River plant.

Photos copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without copyright holder's consent is prohibited.