A friend of mine suggested that I get a CTS for myself to use here in Texas. He kept bragging how powerful the thing was, and I’m already convinced that it is because of him. I’d like to find out what other features are there in the CTS.

Reggie

Houston, TX

Hi there, Mr. Reggie! Your friend was definitely right in pushing you to grab a CTS for yourself to drive around Texas. You should enjoy the rush of the 3.7 Liter V6 engines on these things. Just to add information for you. A standard model CTS gives you 262 hp while the direct injection model generates 302 hp. You can choose between manual-transmission or Hydra-matic transmission systems. To further enhance your driving experience, the CTS also has Stabilitrac, a computer controlled stability control system.

If you’re wondering what you’ll find inside the cabin, you will be amazed as well to find several interesting features. Available as an option, there is Bluetooth integration for your mobile phone. No need to hold the phone when receiving a call while driving. The sound system is more than great if you get an option to add the Bose surround sound system. You can also get the sound system with the option for a hard drive where you can store about 40 gigabytes (translated as: a lot) of music. There is also an available option for an electronic navigation system that’s most likely connected to a satellite map service. The device plots for you the directions, so you get to where you want to go without making wrong turns.

Best move is to schedule for a test drive for you to verify what you know about the car. Happy driving, Reggie.

I’ve always been fascinated by the Escalade whenever I see one on the streets. However, I’m wondering if there’s an Escalade hybrid, is there one? I’m sure the people in Texas would love to see more of these driving down the street than purely gasoline-fed models.

Owen

Houston, TX

Good day, Owen! I am in complete agreement with your statement regarding having more hybrids around our state. Let there be more Escalade Hybrids in Texas. Lesser emissions mean clean air and a better environment for the generation that will follow us.

After I first read about the Cadillac Escalade, I already appreciated its features as an SUV. That was until I found more about the Escalade Hybrid. The Escalade Hybrid maintains pure SUV power characteristics, as Cadillac claims it can still tow 5,800 pounds. After all, it still has a 332 hp 6.0 liter V8 engine that kicks up 367 lbs-ft torque at 4,100 rpm. I agree with the Cadillac people. These things you won’t expect from a hybrid. I am also fascinated with the technology applied on the Escalade Hybrid. There’s regenerative braking, a system that charges up the battery. There are two electric motors that run the car in low power situations and when more power is needed the gasoline engine helps the car move along. And when real muscle is needed, the car automatically switches itself to pure gasoline engine mode. When it’s at a full stop, the gas engine shuts off to limit emissions. With these systems in place, the Escalade Hybrid’s EPA ratings reach up to 20 to 21 miles per gallon on city and highway drives, respectively.

I saw a Cadillac CTS the other day here in Houston, Texas and my girlfriend had to close my mouth to stop the drooling. Loved how the car looked. Care to tell me more about the car? I’d like the “ins” more than the “outs.”

Steve

Houston,TX

Hey, Steve-o, I drooled, too. Kidding aside, I do think you don’t have to think hard about the Cadillac CTS. I’ve seen some on the road and saw one in display. You’ll be sold as soon as you step inside your Houston, Texas Cadillac dealer. I will show you some points that will make you feel that you made a great choice.

First, let’s get started with the style of the CTS. Cadillac, in my humble opinion, still rules in the style and appeal section. The CTS is a marriage of style and rugged looks that makes it a true sport sedan. Then if we look under the hood, and go through the different trims available, you’ll expand your choices. Your options for an engine can either be a 3.6 Liter V6 VVT or a 3.6 Liter DI. Comparing horsepower between these two, the 304 hp at 6400 rpm from the Direct Injection engine rules it over its variable valve timing (VVT) brother by 40 hp. There’s also more torque for the DI variant. Standard transmission for these cars is manual but there’s an option to go automatic. I love how the 2008 CTS handles; curves are not an issue with the car. As far as interiors and creature comforts are concerned, I’d say that it’s pretty much standard in what you’ll find in cars today. You will get navigation, a decent stereo system, power seats, just to cite a few. Anyway, Steve, I do hope you finalize your plans to get a CTS. You won’t regret it.