The Cadillac CTS lineup uses both V6 and V-8 engines, depending on model year and trim. In everyday models, you’ll typically find a V6, while the high-performance CTS-V variants run a V-8.
Engine lineup by generation
Here’s a concise look at how the CTS was powered through its three generations, highlighting where V6 and V-8 configurations appeared.
- First generation (2003–2007): Base CTS models used V6 engines, while the performance-focused CTS-V relied on V-8 power (early CTS-V options included a 5.7L V-8, later shifting to a 6.0L V-8).
- Second generation (2008–2013): Base CTS continued with V6 power (various 3.0–3.6L offerings); CTS-V retained a V-8, moving to a supercharged 6.2L V-8 in its later years.
- Third generation (2014–2019): Base CTS expanded to include a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder and a 3.6L V6 option; CTS-V again used a V-8, culminating in a high-output 6.2L supercharged V-8 in later models.
Bottom line: If you want a CTS with a V-8, look for a CTS-V badge; otherwise, most non-V variants use V6 or, in the latest generation, a turbo four-cylinder.
CTS-V: the high-performance variant
Across generations, the CTS-V line has been Cadillac’s performance-focused counterpart to the standard CTS. While the exact displacement and induction have varied, the model consistently used a V-8 engine to deliver higher horsepower and sportier performance than the non-V variants.
- 2004–2007 CTS-V: 5.7L V-8 (LS6), later updated to a 6.0L V-8 (LS2).
- 2009–2015 CTS-V: 6.2L V-8 with a supercharger (LS3/LS9 family, marketed as an enhanced performance setup).
- 2016–2019 CTS-V: 6.2L supercharged V-8 (LT4), delivering the top-end power the CTS line offered.
Note: After 2019, Cadillac shifted away from the CTS platform in favor of the CT5, but the CTS-V remains the go-to model for V-8 CTS power.
Summary
In short, the Cadillac CTS is not limited to a single engine type. It spans both V6 and V-8 configurations across its generations, with standard non-V models typically offering V6 (or turbo four in later years) and the CTS-V variant providing V-8 power for enthusiasts.
What year of Cadillac CTS to stay away from?
Electrical issues: Electrical problems have popped up in various Cadillac CTS models, with the 2008-2009 and 2013-2014 years facing issues more frequently. These problems range from glitchy infotainment systems to malfunctioning lights and battery failures.
Is a Cadillac CTS a V-6 or V-8?
The CTS Sport Wagon is available in either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive layouts, and is powered by either a 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine or a 3.6-liter V6 with variable valve timing.
Which CT6 engine is best?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The engines of the CT6 get better, as you might expect, the higher their rated horsepower goes. That leaves the base turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder as the least satisfying of the bunch and the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 as the best.
Is the CTS-V faster than a Corvette?
Performance Data and Lap Time Showdown
A glance at the lap sheets reveals a consistent advantage for the Corvette, but the context is crucial. At Circuit of the Americas - COTA - CCW, the CTS-V Mk3 in stock trim clocked a 2:30.27, while a race-prepped Corvette C6 Z06 stormed to a 2:08.6, a gulf of over 21 seconds.