Prior to this week’s reveal of the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V, prototype versions of the car were consistently spotted testing at the Nurburgring in Germany. The track is one of the most demanding circuits in the world, making it the perfect place for manufacturers to test their all-new performance products. The previous-generation CTS-V completed a lap of the ‘Ring in 7:59.32, a record for production-spec sedans at the time, so what do you think the new one can manage?
In addition to sitting on the superior Alpha platform, the new CTS-V has more power than the outgoing model (640 horsepower to 556 horsepower), third-generation Magnetic Ride Control, larger Brembo brakes, superior Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, a quicker-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and an optional aerodynamics package. Those upgrades will almost guarantee the 2016 CTS-V a faster time at the ‘Ring, possibly one fast enough to best the current production sedan lap record holder, the Porsche Panamera Turbo.
Considering the 2012 Camaro ZL1 lapped the ‘Ring in 7:41.27, we think the CTS-V will be capable of at least coming within throwing distance of that time. The new CTS-V is more powerful than the ZL1 and weighs only a touch more at 4,145 lbs to the ZL1’s 4,120. It also has better tires, a functional aerodynamics package to help push said tires into the ground and a better transmission. That would be a lightning fast time for a production sedan, but on paper, it seems plausible.
So what do you think the CTS-V’s Nurburgring lap time will be? Let us know in the comments!
Comments
7:44
There is one thing that has always struck me about the Nurburgring Lap times, and that is which cars were “fastest”. It has never been the most powerful cars that took the crown, but the ones that could take a corner. The Nissan GT-R outruns plenty of cars that have way more power.
That all being said, the CTS-V has got all the power, aero, and grip it needs to be the new fastest sedan around the track. The only really question that remains to be seen is how well it can take a corner. AWD might benefit it here, but that’s not to say it’s required.
This should be an interesting thing to behold either way.
7:43
The suspension is where the key is to getting the power down in all areas of the track along with the traction management system.
keep in mind these are the same guys who get all the ZO6 power to the ground. The key will be managing the extra weight and CG of the car.
No matter what it will be a respectable time.
7:42
I think it will outrun the ZL1, but not by much. Seeing as how it has more HP and torque to over come the 25lb weight difference and with the new 8 speed I’m thinking around 7:38 if the road is dry.
7:27
The LT4 has much more torque at lower RPM than the LSA or the LS9 this will really help the car coming out of the corners. It has a stiffer chassis than before and will definitely handle better than the ZL1. The 8 speed tranny will keep it in the optimum torque band longer and more efficiently.
7:32.17
Better than BMW and Mercedes
The higher HP and newer CTS-V should be faster than that ZL1….for sure. About 7:38…..Making it the fastest 4 door on that circuit.
I think the ATS-V may break the 8 minute barrier, maybe 7:55
The CTS-V needs to beat the Porsche Panamera to be the top 4-door and that is 7:56 – so maybe 7:48 or so. That would be impressive considering 2007 Lamborghinis are at 7:47.
I think its going to be like 2 secs from the alfa rome gulia gv which a ran a 1.32