2006 Cadillac STS-V Press Release: Cadillac Adds STS-V, XLR-V to V-Series Lineup
Press Release: Cadillac Adds STS-V, XLR-V to V-Series Lineup
For Release: Aug. 1, 2005
Since its introduction two years ago, Cadillac's V-Series has established a new benchmark for luxury performance vehicles. For 2006, the XLR-V and STS-V join the CTS-V in the lineup.
STS-V: The 2006 STS-V epitomizes Cadillac power and performance. It carries the craftsmanship and sophistication of its STS sibling, but at an entirely different level. Designed for everyday driving, the STS-V delivers supercharged, rear-drive performance with an elegant design statement that is unmistakably Cadillac.
The 4.4L supercharged, dual overhead cam Northstar engine also powers the XLR-V, producing 469 horsepower (350 kw) at 6400 rpm and 439 lb.-ft. (595 Nm) of torque at 3800 rpm (SAE certified*). Like the XLR-V, the engine delivers 90 percent of its peak torque between 2200 and 6000 rpm. Vehicle redline is 6700 rpm.
The DOHC engine has variable valve timing, enabling outstanding top-end performance while maintaining the expected refinement and quality associated with a luxury marque.
The engine's torque curve puts the STS-V in the under-5-second club for 0-to-60 time, and careful calibration of the engine and transmission enables refined shift feel. During shifts, power is instantaneously lowered, then ramped back up carefully to make gear changes virtually unnoticeable.
The Northstar V-8 SC is mated to the all-new Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission -- the first use of GM's new six-speed automatic.
Exterior elements on the STS-V enable higher-performance capabilities; yet express sophisticated elegance. Exterior refinements include:
- A larger, polished stainless steel wire mesh front grille that enables the required additional airflow for engine heat dissipation
- A new, lower front fascia that incorporates a larger lower grille (also wire mesh) for increased cooling capability; brake ducts for front caliper and rotor cooling and splitter to counteract lift created by larger grille openings
- A new lower rear fascia that facilitates smooth airflow under the vehicle for improved cooling
- Lower rockers that visually bridge the lowered front and rear fascias
- A specific, fluidly sculpted hood designed to provide space for the engine's supercharger
- Ten-spoke, flangeless, painted aluminum alloy wheels that assist in brake cooling
- A higher, more rearward-positioned rear spoiler that enables balanced aerodynamic downforce with the front splitter
- V- series badging on the vehicle's rear decklid and front doors, and “Supercharged” block lettering on the doors
Interior refinements include:
- Hand-wrapped leather surfaces throughout
- Olive Ash Burl wood appointments
- Kinetic-finished aluminum accents
- Sueded fabric seat inserts
- V -Series badging
- Tango Red color accent
XLR-V: The 2006 Cadillac XLR-V ultra-luxury, high-performance roadster sets new standards in power, performance and personal amenities, combining distinctive, bold styling with contemporary luxury, ingenious technology and rear-wheel drive performance.
At the heart of the XLR-V is the new, 4.4L version of the Northstar engine outfitted with a positive displacement intercooled supercharger. The Northstar V-8 SC (supercharged), which also powers the STS-V, produces 443 horsepower (330 kw) at 6400 rpm and 414 lb.-ft. (561 Nm) torque at 3900 rpm (SAE certified*). The engine's power is underscored by its ability to deliver 90 percent of its peak torque between 2200 and 6000 rpm. The engine also features variable valve timing, enabling outstanding top-end performance while maintaining the refinement and quality associated with a luxury marque. The engine is mated to the all-new Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission.
The 6L80 is one of the most technologically advanced automatic transmissions in the industry, using clutch-to-clutch operation and an advanced integrated 32-bit transmission controller to deliver smooth, precise shifts. In addition, a wide 6.04:1 overall ratio spread enhances performance and fuel economy.
The 6L80 also incorporates a host of advanced driving enhancement features, including advanced Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS), Performance Algorithm Liftfoot (PAL), and Driver Shift Control (DSC).
Chassis modifications on the XLR-V include larger brakes; recalibrated Magnetic Ride Control (MR); larger front stabilizer bar and the addition of a rear stabilizer bar; stiffer rear lower control arm bushings; larger wheels and tires; a power steering fluid cooler; and a higher-capacity fuel pump.
XLR-V styling modifications impart a bolder character in keeping with its performance capabilities, yet retain an aura of refined elegance. Design refinements include:
- Polished wire mesh upper and lower front grilles, a V-Series signature
- Aggressively sculpted hood that makes room for the supercharger
- New 10-spoke aluminum wheel design with sterling silver finish
- Unique V-Series and Supercharged badging
- Four polished stainless steel exhaust tips
- Black finish brake calipers with machined V-Series logo
- Three exterior color offerings: Infra Red, Black Raven and Light Platinum
- Zingana Wood on the shifter knob, cup holder area, steering wheel, and on portions of the door and center console
- Ebony leather with French stitching on interior components
- Soft, supple leather seats with French stitching and matching perforated suede fabric inserts
- Aluminum accent pieces throughout the interior
Like XLR, the XLR-V will be built at GM's state-of-the-art, award-winning Bowling Green assembly center.
CTS-V: The first V-Series vehicle, the CTS-V provides high-performance driving enthusiasts with a serious, credible alternative to imports in the highly competitive, low-volume luxury performance segment, including the BMW M-Series, Mercedes-Benz AMG Series and Audi S-Series.
For 2006, CTS-V receives a new engine, and the power sunroof will now be standard equipment.
The four-door, rear-wheel drive CTS-V now uses the overhead valve 6.0L V-8 LS2 engine (replacing the LS6) producing the same 400 horsepower (298 kw) and 395 lb.-ft. (536 Nm) of torque. Acceleration figures include 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 163 mph (262 km). The quarter mile is achieved in 13.1 seconds at 109 mph.
Engine highlights include an aluminum block, two-valve cylinder heads with revisions to the air induction system, and an enlarged dual exhaust system for an impressive V-8 sound. The LS2 V-8 provides CTS-V with racetrack-proven performance, along with smooth, quiet operation and outstanding reliability, durability and quality. The engine's lightweight aluminum construction -- including its cylinder heads and block -- delivers an excellent power-to-weight ratio (1:9.6) and good chassis balance (53 percent front / 47 percent rear).
Power is delivered through the six-speed manual Tremec T56 transmission that features a dual mass flywheel for reduced noise and vibration harshness. A heavy-duty, increased diameter, 70 mm prop shaft is used for the higher torque requirements. The limited-slip rear axle is fitted with a 3.73:1 final drive ratio to optimize acceleration.
To help develop and manage its higher horsepower and torque output, and to reduce noise, vibration and harshness, the CTS-V features several modifications, including:
- High-profile camshaft opens the valves faster and higher, enabling more airflow in and out of the combustion chambers and contributing to horsepower gains
- High-strength pistons help improve engine durability, particularly under high-performance operating conditions
- Revised valves and stiffer valve springs better accommodate valve operation with the high-lift cam
- Enhanced induction system< enables enhanced engine breathing, helping to increase horsepower output
- High-flow intake manifold delivers high amounts of airflow to the intake ports, helping to ensure a broad torque curve while delivering maximum power
- High-flow fuel injectors deliver fuel at the faster rate needed due to increased intake airflow
- Dual exhaust constructed of 2.5-inch (159-mm) diameter stainless steel pipe to help minimize back pressure, increase horsepower and ensure proper exhaust tone. Polished stainless steel tips cap the exhaust pipes
- Engine cover helps reduce underhood noise and features the Cadillac wreath and crest in its center and V-Series identification over each cylinder bank
On the exterior, the CTS-V includes enhancements designed to increase performance, including a unique front fascia with an integrated aero splitter for better aerodynamics and brake ducts vented to cool front brakes. Stainless steel mesh grilles, both below and above the bumper, offer a unique front appearance and allow for free air flow into the engine compartment. Sides include a unique aero rocker design that flows into a specific rear fascia.
CTS-V offers a unique instrument cluster trimmed with satin chrome rings around each gauge. Aircraft-style, white lettering on a black field is used on gauges for better legibility. Other interior design features include a three-spoke steering wheel with an aluminum bezel and specific controls for CTS-V. Satin chrome finishes also are used on the shift knob, door pulls and door handles. The center armrest has been lowered significantly for easier shifting during driving.
CTS-V is produced at GM's Lansing Grand River assembly center, the award-winning manufacturing site for the CTS, SRX luxury utility and STS luxury sedan.
* SAE certified: A voluntary power and torque certification procedure developed by the SAE Engine Test Code Committee was approved March 31. The procedure (J2723) ensures fair, accurate ratings for horsepower and torque by allowing manufacturers to certify their engines through third-party witness testing to the SAE J1349 standard. GM was the first auto manufacturer to begin using this procedure and expects to use it for all newly rated engines in the future.
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Source: GM Media