The Cadillac CTS offered a range of engines across its life, from a 3.2-liter V6 in early models to high‑performance V8s in the CTS‑V, a mid‑generation 3.6-liter V6, and later a 2.0-liter turbo four along with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the final CTS‑V. This article breaks down the engine options by generation and variant.
First generation CTS (2003–2007)
Engines offered
- 3.2-liter V6 (base)
- 5.7-liter LS6 V8 (CTS‑V, 2004–2005)
- 6.0-liter LS2 V8 (CTS‑V, 2006–2007)
The first-generation CTS established a conventional V6 baseline with high‑output V8 options in the performance‑oriented CTS‑V variants.
Second generation CTS (2008–2013)
Engines offered
- 3.6-liter V6 (base and most trims, 2008–2013)
- 6.2-liter LS3 V8 (CTS‑V, 2009–2013)
In this generation, Cadillac refined the standard V6 and continued to push the performance envelope with the CTS‑V’s big V8.
Third generation CTS (2014–2019)
Engines offered
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (LTG; 2014–2019)
- 3.6-liter V6 (LGX; 2014–2019)
- 6.2-liter LT4 supercharged V8 (CTS‑V, 2016–2019; 640 hp)
The redesigned CTS diversified into a modern turbo four alongside a natural‑aspirated V6, while the CTS‑V returned with a high‑powered supercharged V8.
Summary
Over its 16-year production span, the CTS offered a progression from a capable base V6 to robust V8 options in the CTS‑V, then added a turbocharged four and a flagship supercharged V8 in the final years. Engine availability varied by year and market, with the CTS ultimately evolving into Cadillac’s CT5 lineup in the next generation.