2013 Cadillac CTS-V - Quality Review

Comfort is often given a backseat to performance in the hot version of any car. In the Cadillac CTS-V, however, the engineers managed to strike a surprising balance--with both at a high level.

That's most true in the front seats, where the standard sport seats are comfy for most, and the leather-and-microfiber Recaros are even better. Headroom is good, and leg room is too, though the shape of the center console area can impinge on the knees of taller drivers.

The console panel, where most of the car's cabin controls are located, is a bit of a love-hate situation; it's attractive and functional in its way, but it's also cluttered and not particularly modern-looking.

In the rear seats of the sedan and coupe, you'll find space enough for adults, but with a bit of a premium on knee room. Overall width is good for two adults, but tight for three. In the Sport Wagon, there's a bit more room for rear seat passengers, and easier access thanks to slightly longer rear doors, but it's still best-suited to two adults.

All three models offer rather good cargo space, with large trunks in the sedan and coupe, though the opening is somewhat small. The Sport Wagon fits even more gear in its extended tail, and the rear liftgate makes access easy.

Ride quality is very good thanks to the Magnetic Ride Control suspension system, and the big, powerful engine is surprisingly quiet around town. The available automatic transmission shifts smoothly in normal driving, enhancing the easy, quiet, relaxed feel of the CTS-V when time isn't of the essence.