Cadillac just unveiled the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V last year, launching the very first all-electric vehicle to wear a V-Series badge. While the Lyriq-V is certainly quick, it’s always worthwhile to remember some of the earlier ICE-powered V-Series models from Caddy’s past. Now, we’re doing exactly that as Jay Leno climbs behind the wheel of his personal 2012 Cadillac CTS-V in the following episode of Jay Leno’s Garage.
Throughout the episode, Jay is joined by Tony Roma, the new Executive Chief Engineer for Corvette and GM’s high-performance vehicles, who’s resume also includes a hand in every generation of Cadillac V-Series cars since the outset.
The video provides a discussion of how Cadillac has evolved over the years, adopting a more youthful, performance-oriented attitude in the early aughts by offering manual transmissions paired with high-powered engines. Essentially, models like the CTS-V provided Corvette-level performance in a practical, four-door package, with features like Brembo brakes, Bilstein dampers, and over 400 horsepower – all of which can be bought today for around $20,000 to $30,000 on the used market today, according to Leno.
Over time, the V-Series badge earned respect from enthusiasts and the automotive press. Cadillac brought this momentum to racing as well, returning to motorsport with a win at Sebring in 2004.
Tony shares stories about working on the V-Series models, how handling and refinement were carefully balanced, while also incorporating cutting-edge technologies like Magnetic Ride Control and active exhaust valves. The two also compare the CTS-V to modern offerings like the CT5-V Blackwing, which doles out 668 supercharged horsepower and still offers a manual transmission – a rare combo in today’s market.
If you’re a fan of the Cadillac CTS-V, or just high-performance sedans in general, this video is a fun watch. After going over the specs and history, the two men jump into the red four-door and take it for a spin, so make sure to stick around for that:
Comments
it was a beauty car
Sure, they’re a performance bargain. But finding one that hasn’t already been beat within an inch of its life is starting to get pretty hard.
If the engine has issues, IF YOU HAVE the money and time to, at least the LS is shared to an extent with other cars.
But many of them are two decades old, general parts they discontinued and now you might have to go to the junkyard, or well….
Huh????? The engine will be the last thing to have issues on this car. You got a truck engine block in a 3000lb car. You will be looking at rust treatment, new interior before the engine as long as the prior owner kept up the fluid changes, most Cadillac also are owned by fairly conscientious individuals who car for them.
I think people who downvoted may have misunderstood my point. This always happens here on GMA.
I don’t blame you however.
I would like to say that since the earliest CTS Vs are likely more than a decade old, parts OTHER THAN will likely be harder to find.
For example, interior trim, wheel options, and similar. Also some critical items, I don’t know at the top of my head….
Sorry, meant parts OTHER THAN THE ENGINE.
I’d take one of these. Still looks good 13+ years later.
I have a2917 cts 6 cylinders with an 8 speed auto, recently raced with a 2022 mustang and I know he has a V 8, he couldn’t keep up with the cts.
Meaning 2017 CTS
My 2012 Cts Coupe is the prettiest car ever.
Heads turn to stare always when we roll out. 😂