Dear GM - Our 2008 CTS Wishlist

[Flybrian]

Dear GM,

It goes without saying that your CTS sedan is one of the most compelling reasons to have faith in what GM and the Cadillac Division can do. Its a car that can run with the best of those Europeans while not remaining distinctly American and distinctly Cadillac.

Now, on the cusp of the CTS' second-generation for 2008, we'd like to see one of the best become even better. Here are some suggestions -

Telescoping Steering Wheel

Not only is this something Cadillac pioneered decades ago, but its becoming a standard feature on more and more cars outside the luxury field. This is also essential in making sure the driver has the most control and comfort in a sport sedan. Naturally, we'd like the CTS' to be powered.

Bluetooth Integration

Again, this is a feature abundant in other cars in the luxury class. Futhermore, this adds to CTS' sporting nature since handfree calling allows the driver to focus on the road ahead. Though we realize OnStar offers handsfree calling, nothing trumps the convenience and cost-effectiveness of integrating one's own personal phone in the car.

Panoramic Sunroof/Rear Skylight

A glass roof option would give the cabin an open, airy feel and add that extra touch of luxury Cadillac is reknowned for. Also, since the SRX already carries the UltraView and UltraView Plus options, this is a natural fit for the next CTS.

Keyless/Remote Start

Though we expect Remote Start to be an option as it is on many other GM cars, Keyless Start would be an excellent and welcome addition as the XLR roadster and STS sedan use similar technology already.

Heads-Up Display

General Motors pioneered the use HUD in cars and better still, made them an affordable option. We'd like to see this continue with the CTS, using the four-color unit currently optional on the Corvette, with three modes - Normal, Sport, and Stealth. Normal would display a digital speedometer and driver-customized readouts, Sport would display speedometer and tach, and Stealth would black-out the regular instrument panel for night driving.

Active/Radar Cruise Control

As this is already an option on the DTS sedan, we feel it should also be optional on CTS models.

Rainsense Wipers

Again, since this is an option/standard feature on several other GM models in this price range, we feel it should be an option on the CTS.

Heated/Cooled Front Seats, Heated/Cooled Rear Seats

A luxury feature that would add to driver and passenger comfort and relaxation.

Heated Steering Wheel

Another luxury feature that increases driver comfort, especially in cold-weather climates.

Rearview Parking Camera

This feature would increase the safety of reversing in crowded areas, allowing the driver to avoid obstacles and/or pedestrians and also increase CTS' appeal in congested urban areas and the international market where parking is at a premium.

Adaptive Headlamps

Again, as this great feature is available on Cadillac's own DTS, we would expect it to be optional here.

Beyond individual features, many of us would like to see a non V-Series V8 option with output between that of the high-end V6 and V-Series, reflected accordingly in pricing.

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Also, a more vivid color pallette both inside and out is a must. The current CTS is an incredibly striking design, one that is in stark contrast to drab shades of gray, offwhite, and beige. Future CTS owners would like their bold cars to be dressed in bold colors - the debut Sunburst Metallic was a good start. Carry such boldness in design within CTS as well, with dynamic color contrasts.

An all-wheel drive option is being heavily requested. Some prefer the handling of AWD while some prefer the additional surefootedness it lends the car in inclement weather and snow. Either way, the addition of an AWD CTS4 would only bolster the already established performance credentials.

Finally, a universal clarion call for alternative fuel engines is also being heard. Of the many ideas being put forth, there are E85, Diesel, and Hybrid suggestions. E85 capability would be a natural addition to the growing stable of ethanol vehicles in GM's line. A Diesel engine would add incredible credibility overseas. A hybrid would put Cadillac out front as one of the leaders in environmental luxury. Just things to consider.

This list was complied out of dozens and dozens of suggestions put forth by CTS and Cadillac owners, prospective CTS buyers, and fans of the car. To read more of their suggestions (or contribute some of your own), please click the link below.

Thank you for reading this and we look forward to the 2008 CTS debut.

Sincerely,

The Membership of Cheers and Gears

2008 CTS Wishlist