2008 Cadillac CTS Exterior Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 31 CTS reviews and test drives.
Exterior - What the Auto Press Says
The exterior of the CTS receives a subtle makeover for 2008, and the majority like the results. Car and Driver says, "There's no bad view of the new car, from its attention-grabbing front end and better-integrated vertical headlights and taillights to its muscular fender flares." The Detroit News calls it "a pleasing evolution of the first generation's distinctive look, blending sharp creases with more curvaceous styling elements."
Some reviewers find the redesigned exterior more refined. The 2008 CTS, says the San Jose Mercury News, is "a bit rounder and certainly more elegant from its chrome trim to its light pipes that give both its front and rear lights a distinctive look." Cars.com agrees, claiming the CTS "looks softer than before, with wider fenders, brighter headlights and less of the outright severity that characterized the original."
Other reviewers find the exterior to be more assertive. Autobytel argues, "It actually looks bigger, broader and bolder than before". Forbes calls the CTS "aggressively, though tastefully styled, with an athletically sculpted body and a bold, chrome grille up front." The Kansas City Star says, "There's a hint of forward movement throughout the design even while the car is standing still."
By all accounts, exterior fit and finish is improved. Motor Trend reports, "In terms of sheer manufacturing competence, the precise, complex execution of the sheetmetal rivals that of BMW." AutoWeek writes, "Everywhere you look on the CTS' body, the gaps have shrunk," with panels that "looked as tight as anything hailing from Europe or Asia." Road and Track says that the CTS features "possibly the best sheet-metal work and the best fit and finish we've seen from GM's luxury division."
