|
© 1998 - 2013
Copyright & Disclaimer Automotive Intelligence, www.autointell.com All Rights Reserved . For questions please contact
[email protected]
|
|
All-New Cadillac CTS Drives Challenging Nürburgring
Vsport model records lap time of 8:14.10 at world’s most-demanding test
track
DETROIT - Cadillac validated its all-new 2014 CTS midsize luxury sedan
and power-packed CTS Vsport at the world’s most-demanding test track -
Germany’s Nürburgring - and recorded lap times to enhance the
nameplate’s reputation as a driver’s car.
Notably, the 2014 CTS Vsport, featuring Cadillac’s first Twin-Turbo
engine and eight-speed transmission, recorded a lap time of 8:14.10,
almost six seconds faster than the first generation CTS-V recorded 10
years ago with a larger V-8 engine.
|
|
|
|
Nürburgring validation certified that all
CTS suspension packages are capable of handling the extreme conditions
and unlimited speeds of Autobahn driving. CTS development included
Autobahn and track calibrations of the steering system, shock absorbers,
chassis controls and powertrain cooling. |
|
“The Nürburgring’s extreme conditions allow us to
push cars to the limits of stability, steering, braking, ride and
handling,” said Dave Leone, CTS executive chief engineer, Performance
Luxury Vehicles. “The new CTS models had a lot to live up to considering
the nameplate’s history of outstanding performance, and we were not
disappointed.”
Measuring 12.9 miles (20.8 km) and including some 154 turns, the
Nürburgring’s Nordschleife (“north loop”) is widely considered the
world’s most-demanding course for vehicle validation. Cadillac vehicle
dynamics performance engineer Kevin Zelenka and Jeff Grabowski drove
full production models of CTS and CTS Vsport with no performance
modifications, validating all-new 2014 CTS sedan that goes on sale this
fall.
“The new CTS was an absolute riot to drive on the Ring,” said Zelenka.
“It’s more athletic and refined, and the Vsport proved extremely
capable. If a car performs well on the Ring, it will perform well on any
road in the world.”
The CTS has been the centerpiece of Cadillac’s portfolio for more than a
decade. The third-generation CTS is one inch lower, five inches longer
and more than 200 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The new car also
has lower curb weight, greater structural stiffness and more horsepower
than its primary competitors.
|
|
The all-new CTS is engineered from the ground up to deliver a driving
experience that combines sport-tuned handling with world-class comfort.
Its segment-exclusive Magnetic Ride Control and electronic limited slip
differential constantly monitor rear-wheel rotation to ensure optimal
handling in a variety of road conditions.
The 2014 CTS standard model will start at $46,025, including $925
destination. Three collections of option packages - Luxury, Performance
and Premium - will be offered with either the 2.0T turbocharged four
cylinder or 3.6L naturally aspirated V6 engine in either rear- or
all-wheel drive. The CTS Vsport model starts at $59,995, including $925
destination, and features the new Cadillac Twin-Turbo 3.6L V6 (420 hp)
in RWD only with an eight-speed transmission.
Photo: GM
(August 28, 2013)
|