Technical sophistication meets bold style and modern technology in Cadillac's first-ever CT6. Designed to compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8, the CT6 shows Cadillac's strength in engineering in a way that's unlike any Caddy that's preceded it.
Given that the CT6 launched just last year, it should come as no surprise that Cadillac's engineers haven't made any changes to it. Two new colours join the range, though: Phantom Grey, and Bronze Dune. Unusual for a sedan of this size, a full ground effects body kit is available, an addition to the options list that started midway through the '16 model year's production run.
The CT6 rides on GM's brand new Omega platform and is constructed mostly of aluminum. Although it's a very big car - longer than even the former XTS flagship - it's only marginally heavier than the mid-sized CTS.
While V8 and plug-in hybrid powertrains are slated to arrive in the future, for the time being, engine choices include a turbocharged four-cylinder and two V6s. The base 2.0-litre turbo produces 265 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque and is the same engine used in both the ATS and CTS. Next up is GM's recently redesigned 3.6-litre naturally aspirated V6, which produces 335 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque. The flagship powertrain for the moment is the 3.0 twin-turbo V6 which produces an impressive 404 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. All cars use an eight-speed automatic; the 2.0T is rear-wheel drive, while all others feature all-wheel drive as standard.
Trimmed in fine leather, wood, and metal, the CT6 is by far and away the most opulent Cadillac built to date and proves the General can craft a luxury vehicle that's up to the standard of six-figure rivals. There's no shortage of equipment here either; the CT6 can be had with just about every conceivable feature presently found in a car.
From a mechanical standpoint, it can be had with magnetic damping, rear-wheel steering, and selectable drive modes that alter the torque split for the all-wheel drive system. All models have a standard full TFT instrument cluster, while the standard 10.2-inch central CUE display features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Up front, 20-way adjustable seats cosset the driver and passenger, while those in the back are treated to power-operated thrones with massage function, and where equipped, dual 10-inch entertainment displays. Audiophiles should also note that the CT6 boasts Bose's incredible Panaray sound system which features 34(!) speakers. Radar cruise control, automatic front and rear emergency braking, parking assistant, lane-keeping assist, and night vision are all available.
All this technology, sophistication, and quality do come at a cost. The CT6 isn’t a budget vehicle; you’ll spend at least $62,000 for the most basic four-cylinder turbo models. Splurge for the Platinum trim offered on the 3.6 and 3.0TT, and the pricetag elevates to the mid-$90k range before options.
