2013 CADILLAC CTS Photos, engines & full specs

The third-generation Cadillac CTS sedan is a midsize luxury sedan that is defined by performance, elevated luxury, and sophisticated technology. On its own merits, the CTS sedan still has plenty of appeal. Despite the newcomers ATS and XTS, the 2013 CTS remains the heart of Cadillac's sales and reputation.

The CTS's distinctive shield-shaped front grille is updated again for 2013 with a bright appearance on the vertical and horizontal bars that compose the grille's frame. The grille is wider, while the headlights flow up with the hood line, incorporating a strip of LED lights that runs down until it meets the lower spoiler lip. Models equipped with the CTS Touring Package feature a grille with dark vertical and horizontal bars.

The third-generation Cadillac CTS sedan is a midsize luxury sedan that is defined by performance, elevated luxury, and sophisticated technology. It is based on the high-performance rear-drive ATS sport sedan architecture that will enable it to be the class's most agile and dynamic car.

The engine range includes the all-new Cadillac Twin-Turbo engine bolted to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also includes multi-link MacPherson strut suspension for the front, five-link independent rear suspension, available all-wheel-drive, and Magnetic Ride Control to enhance performance.

The interior is roomy and driver-oriented, with eight environment trimmings, each fitted with wood, carbon fiber,, aluminum, and leather. Among Cadillac's technologies, the CTS includes heated and cooled 20-way adjustable front seats, an electronically locking glove box, an adaptive remote start feature, panic brake assist, lane departure warning, and others. Worth mentioning is that the new CTS will be the first car from Cadillac to have Automatic Parking Assist, which enables it to park itself in a parallel space.

In terms of performance might not be as sporty as its rivals, BMW or Audi. While the 2013 Cadillac CTS remains an enjoyable luxury sedan, we think there are better choices to check,, such as the the 2013 BMW 3 Series or the similarly sized 2013 Lexus GS 350. CTS might be an option if you truly need that extra room and you are more on comfort and space.

Every 2013 Cadillac CTS comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but there is also an all-wheel drive for those who need it. The 3.0 Luxury comes standard with a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 265 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque.

The included dual exhaust bumps output up to 270 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the Touring package. The Gearbox is not the most performant, and for lovers of automatics, there is only one available, A six-speed automatic.

If Caddilac has some lacks on the performance side, it didn't neglect the safety of its passengers. Standard safety features for the 2013 Cadillac CTS include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, active front head restraints, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

Also standard is OnStar, which includes automatic crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, an emergency button, stolen vehicle locator and active intervention, and remote door unlock. In the crash test, they received 5 stars out of five, making the CTS one of the safest cars in its class.

We must conclude with some pros and cons. It has a roomier cabin than its similarly priced rivals, an elegant interior, and good safety scores. The cons we want to mention are that the sport suspension may be too firm, it has a bit of poor reward visibility, and, most important could be more agile. The 2013 Cadillac CTS Sedan remains one of America's best luxury sedans but is still outclassed by European competitors.