A quickened steering ratio, stiffened suspension and Pirelli tires are in place to assist the STS-V in outperforming the standard STS. The engine block and heads are aluminum while the crankshaft is crafted from forged steel and the camshaft is cast from iron. Independent suspension and four separate settings for traction and stability control act in conjunction to produce a dependable, consistent ride that delivers excitement and an adrenaline rush with every corner.

If you’re into highly fuel-efficient vehicles, then the Cadillac STS-V isn’t for you. These machines are made for the thrill of driving - not penny saving. The STS-V of 2009 gets only 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. The displacement is 4371 cc (266 cubic inches) and the compression ratio is set at 9.0:1. In other words, prepare to be pinned to your seat if you have a lead foot.

The grille, which is of meshed wire, is the primary visual difference in exterior appearance between the STS-V and the stock STS. On the inside, the STS-V features upgraded leather and suede trim - your choice of gray and ebony. Cadillac STS-Vs have always been priced right around $80, 000. The price has seen an increase of roughly $1000 per year since 2006.

In 2010, the STS-V, and the regular STS models will be discontinued. Throughout the entire lifespan of the car, very few changes have been made. Its appeal today is the same as it has been - sporty, luxurious, fast and showy. The Cadillac STS-V has left its mark in the history of vehicles and it sure to remembered for decades and decades to come as one of the most desired cars ever created.

Though some might not be impressed by the Escalade’s fuel economy, they’ll be pleased with the model’s luxury features. A voice-activated navigation unit is standard, as well as a rear seat DVD entertainment system. The 2009 Hybrid is fitted with the latest in Bluetooth technology so that calls can be taken at any time, and a rearview backup camera is included too. The advanced sound system is powered by Bose, and a remote start system is standard. Another sophisticated addition is tri-zone automatic climate control that will accommodate all eight passengers in the Escalade.

Though the exterior is mostly unchanged from the Escalade’s prior model year, a large “HYBRID” decal is prominently displayed on both the driver and passenger sides. Many critics are calling this badging self-aggrandizing and misleading; though, others claim that the badge is an accurate representation of what powers the 2009 Cadillac Escalade.

While the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid’s price has yet to be revealed, the maker claims that it won’t be too far off from the base model ($59,805-$81,435). This will automatically put the Escalade Hybrid out of range for many buyers, but larger families and buyers that want status more than genuine fuel efficiency will find that the model has what they are looking for.

Under the hood, the Escalade Hybrid is equipped with a 6.0-liter V8 engine that generates up to 332 horsepower. However, the engine is powered by both gasoline and an electric motor. The electric motor can power the full-size SUV up to a certain speed, then the gasoline-powered engine takes over or uses a combination of the two. Also, regenerative braking is utilized. This brake system provides power to the motor every time the brake pedal is pressed, and it also delivers power to the battery pack for an extra boost. With the addition of hybrid technology, the Escalade emits fewer pollutants into the environment as well. However, even with these additions, the 2009 Escalade Hybrid only gets 20 city MPG and 21 highway MPG. When compared to other hybrid SUVs on the market, the Escalade’s rating is laughable.

Though some might not be impressed by the Escalade’s fuel economy, they’ll be pleased with the model’s luxury features. A voice-activated navigation unit is standard, as well as a rear seat DVD entertainment system. The 2009 Hybrid is fitted with the latest in Bluetooth technology so that calls can be taken at any time, and a rearview backup camera is included too. The advanced sound system is powered by Bose, and a remote start system is standard. Another sophisticated addition is tri-zone automatic climate control that will accommodate all eight passengers in the Escalade.

It was an uphill battle for Cadillac to create the first ever full-size luxury hybrid model for the American market. Concerns regarding the rapid advancement of hybrid technology and widespread appeal caused the maker to put a hold on the model’s release. Nevertheless, the development team for the Escalade Hybrid weathered the storm and ended up with an environmentally friendly model that is sure to please both the common consumer and eco-conscious buyer.

Equipped with the most advanced in hybrid machinery, the Cadillac Escalade surpasses the existing alternative fuel models. The two-mode hybrid transmission can run on either electricity or gasoline. Not only that, when necessary, it will power itself by using both. With regenerative braking the Escalade Hybrid virtually powers itself. This system creates energy and stores it in the battery every time the brake pedal is pressed.

However, the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid does not sacrifice power for environmental friendliness. A 332 horsepower V8 engine provides ample power for this full-size SUV. Nevertheless, there are some critics that say that a V8 engine is not truly hybrid. Also, some reviewers claim that Cadillac is being self-aggrandizing by placing large HYBRID badging on either side of the model.

The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid has made the celebrity circuit by showing at the world-renowned Tribeca Film Festival. Several clever short films starring the Escalade Hybrid have been released on YouTube.com, giving the Escalade Hybrid an already solid younger fan base. Overall, the general take on the new Cadillac Escalade Hybrid has been hesitant. Some are concerned that branding a full-size SUV that gets 20 city MPG and 21 highway MPG as “hybrid” is misleading, and others are worried that potential buyers will think they are making a smaller imprint on the environment by purchasing this model. Though, in reality, the amount of metal that is used to make the model and the cost to repair this particular hybrid system far exceeds that of the modern compact car.

Of course, like any Cadillac, the STS-V comes standard with lots of amenities. Those not standard can be ordered. Some of the more exotic include a heated steering wheel, a voice recognition navigation system, heated windshield washer nozzles, headlight washers, Bose sound system and heated back seats. In short, it has the kind of touches which make a Cadillac, a Cadillac. And it rides like a Cadillac should, and that includes keeping the noise to a minimum.

With a car of this type you expect top-notch safety features, and again Cadillac delivers. In addition to the excellent features of the STS, generally, such as On Star, rear obstacle detection, wiper activated headlights, brake assist, anti-skid and airbags every where, the STS-V has uprated brakes, blind-spot alert and lane-departure warning.

You don’t buy a Cadillac with an eye on your wallet, but with a starting price of $79,465 the STS-V is among the least expensive machines in its class. The fact that it requires premium fuel doesn’t change that, since the rest of this class requires the same. The rated mpg of 13 city and 19 highway is also par for a luxury sports car.

The bottom line is that the 2009 Cadillac STS-V is a car damned by faint praise. A truly fine car, it still falls short of the Cadillac tradition in several ways. The best thing you can say is that it is possibly the best car in its class for the money. Still, Cadillac quality shouldn’t be qualified by price. If you’re looking for a Cadillac, you’ll love it. If you’re looking for a top of the line sports sedan, maybe it shouldn’t be the only place you look.

The majority of the SRX’s entertainment features can be purchased from a number of upgrade packages. The Convenience Package includes a Radio Data System and six-disc in-dash CD changer, while the Theater Package consists of a rear-seat DVD player and an LCD screen, wireless headphones, and a remote control. The DVD system is a great option for families with children, especially during road trips. However, individuals might not find that the DVD system is a practical purchase.

In general, the 2009 Cadillac SRX is an up-market crossover for the contemporary buyer. Moderate gas mileage and price (base MSRP $38,805) might cause some buyers to overlook the model though. Nevertheless, its exterior styling is competitive with other luxury crossovers on the market, and its safety features are hard to beat. In addition, buyers are also able to give their SRX personal touches with upgrade packages and two engine choices.

The high price might be a turnoff for some buyers, but others will certainly appreciate the innovative safety features and entertainment options. With two engine choices, buyers will be able to customize the SRX to fit their specific needs. However, in an age when fuel economy is a top priority, the SRX’s 15 city MPG and 23 highway MPG simply cannot compete with the new hybrid crossover models.

Inside, the 2009 SRX includes an eight-speaker Bose Sound System, dual-zone climate control, power programmable door locks, and the OnStar system. The free one-year subscription to OnStar features turn-by-turn navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services, and stolen vehicle location assistance. The stolen vehicle location will alert the authorities to the general area of an owner’s stolen vehicle, helping to both find the crossover and sometimes apprehend the culprit/s. However, some critics claim that the phrase “turn-by-turn navigation” is misleading, as live OnStar representatives provide the directions rather than a digital readout on an LCD screen.

the hood, the Cadillac SRX is equipped with either a 255 horsepower 3.6L V6 or a 320 horsepower 4.6L V8. Buyers that are looking for a bit more power in a crossover should be pleased with the V8 option. The V6 trim comes standard with a five-speed automatic transmission, while the V8 trim includes a six-speed automatic transmission. Both transmission choices include an overdrive mode. Anti-lock brakes with brake assist, an electronic stability control program, and all-speed traction control are included as well. The all-speed traction control will provide drivers with more control at high speeds and in inclement weather.

The 556 horsepower 2009 Cadillac CTS-V has blasted onto the scene to establish its un-contested dominance as the fastest American-made muscle car ever created - and it does it while offering you the upmost in elegant luxury as well. It blows away obsolete perceptions that a car with this much performance ability is only impressive while traveling straight lines. The CTS-V was designed on the world’s most challenging tracks - and it can easily handle the neighborhood where you live and many where you don’t.

Quite simply, the Cadillac CTS-V for 2009 is the “fastest V8 production sedan in the world”. Cadillac is very proud - and rightfully so - to state that the 2009 CTS-V performed a lap at Nurburgring in just 7:59.32 - incredible by any standards. It flies from zero to sixty miles per hour in only 3.9 seconds. It will blow the doors off of any V8 production vehicle on the planet hands-down.

Its Magnetic Ride Control suspension system will blow your mind with the intricate accuracy and responsiveness that it grants you. Its 6.2L 556hp V8 engine is Gen. 6 R1900 supercharged with a single brick intercooler. The cylinder head and engine block are both formed from cast aluminum. The compression ratio is set at 9.1:1. The TREMEC TR6060 6-speed manual stock transmission is fully synchronized with 2 separate overdrive gears. Want more performance? Opt for the Hydra-Matic 6L90E 6-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission with the torque-converted clutch.

The independent SLA front suspension system features a 29mm hollowed stabilizer bar with elastomeric handling capability with hydraulic ride bushings. In the rear, it features independent SLA suspension system based on a 24mm solid stabilizer bar with elastomeric trailing arm bushings. Both the front and the rear suspension systems are accentuated with the Magnetic Ride Control technology that utilizes electro-magnetic shock absorbers to grant all occupants the epitome of fluid cruising pleasure.

The wheelbase of the 2009 CTS-V measures 113.4 inches and the overall vehicular dimensions measure 196.9L x 72.5W x 58H and the track measurement is 62 inches even in both the front and the rear. The curb weight is 4200 pounds for the manual model and 4300 pounds for the optional automatic transmission models.

Stopping power is optimized with 6-piston (frontal) and 4-piston (rear) Brembo aluminum disc brakes with 4-channel power-assisted ABS. The front wheels are 19 x 9-inch forged aluminum and have five lugs. The rear wheels are the same except they measure 19 x 9.5-inches. 4-channel, 4-modal electronic StabiliTrak stability control and electronic traction control systems are also standard features.

And never forget that the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V is, underneath it all, a Cadillac. That means that you can be assured of the most luxurious and pleasing ride quality available anywhere on the planet. And with a base price of only $58,280, the CTS-V is available to more than just the super-rich.

The tradition of excellence and engineering innovation continued as Cadillac grew up. In 1908, they pioneered the manufacturing of truly interchangeable parts. In 1910, they became the first car maker to release cars with a standard fully-enclosed cab. In 1912 strategic engine starting and lighting was added to their list of automotive achievements.

More recently, Cadillac’s additions to auto making include the introduction of wishbone front suspension (1934), and tailfins (1948). Its fiber-optic indication system which alerted the driver of a failed light bulb, has been offered since the late 1960s.

Today Cadillac pursues new designs, embracing an “art and science” philosophy, and eschewing the release of retro-designs (like Ford’s Thunderbird and VW’s New Beetle) despite their long history in the industry. While they are still known for making LARGE cars, they did, in fact, attempt to sell smaller coupes and sedans, but such sales have been sluggish. Instead, it is their luxury SUV the Escalade, which caught the attention of rapper Jay-Z, among others, which is leading Cadillac into the 21st century, and introducing the brand to the younger generation.

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