Now I am getting close!/Caddy CTS vs RL
10-12-2007, 01:26 AM
#81
Instructor
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Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
.
Not sure if you were really interested in knowing all that or were just thinking out loud, but that's a fairly good explanation.
Not sure if you were really interested in knowing all that or were just thinking out loud, but that's a fairly good explanation.
03-03-2008, 07:52 AM
#82
I'm sort of on the edge of my seat here as to what car DWEST went with.
As far as I can see in this thread, he doesn't say.
I am just coming off my 3-year lease of a 2005 RL. To be honest, it's the
best car I have ever driven but after 3 years it has become bland for me.
I just test drove the Cadillac CTS and I was equally as impressed as DWEST.
The car is something to behold on the inside and its gadgets rival the RL. The
only two big things missing from the 2008 RL over the 2008 CTS is bluetooth
and a backup camera.
It was a painful decision to leave Acura and consider an American car, but I
ultimately chose the Cadillac CTS. I have read dozens upon dozens of reviews
on the Internet about this car and 1% of them had anything negative to say.
You combine that with the automobile being named CAR OF THE YEAR and it's
enough to make some RL owners curious.
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
As far as I can see in this thread, he doesn't say.
I am just coming off my 3-year lease of a 2005 RL. To be honest, it's the
best car I have ever driven but after 3 years it has become bland for me.
I just test drove the Cadillac CTS and I was equally as impressed as DWEST.
The car is something to behold on the inside and its gadgets rival the RL. The
only two big things missing from the 2008 RL over the 2008 CTS is bluetooth
and a backup camera.
It was a painful decision to leave Acura and consider an American car, but I
ultimately chose the Cadillac CTS. I have read dozens upon dozens of reviews
on the Internet about this car and 1% of them had anything negative to say.
You combine that with the automobile being named CAR OF THE YEAR and it's
enough to make some RL owners curious.
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
03-03-2008, 08:02 AM
#83
2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
Originally Posted by NJRonbo
I'm sort of on the edge of my seat here as to what car DWEST went with.
As far as I can see in this thread, he doesn't say.
I am just coming off my 3-year lease of a 2005 RL. To be honest, it's the
best car I have ever driven but after 3 years it has become bland for me.
I just test drove the Cadillac CTS and I was equally as impressed as DWEST.
The car is something to behold on the inside and its gadgets rival the RL. The
only two big things missing from the 2008 RL over the 2008 CTS is bluetooth
and a backup camera.
It was a painful decision to leave Acura and consider an American car, but I
ultimately chose the Cadillac CTS. I have read dozens upon dozens of reviews
on the Internet about this car and 1% of them had anything negative to say.
You combine that with the automobile being named CAR OF THE YEAR and it's
enough to make some RL owners curious.
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
As far as I can see in this thread, he doesn't say.
I am just coming off my 3-year lease of a 2005 RL. To be honest, it's the
best car I have ever driven but after 3 years it has become bland for me.
I just test drove the Cadillac CTS and I was equally as impressed as DWEST.
The car is something to behold on the inside and its gadgets rival the RL. The
only two big things missing from the 2008 RL over the 2008 CTS is bluetooth
and a backup camera.
It was a painful decision to leave Acura and consider an American car, but I
ultimately chose the Cadillac CTS. I have read dozens upon dozens of reviews
on the Internet about this car and 1% of them had anything negative to say.
You combine that with the automobile being named CAR OF THE YEAR and it's
enough to make some RL owners curious.
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
I REALLLLLLY like the CTS, but would like to see how it holds up over time.
03-03-2008, 08:11 AM
#84
Torch & Pitchfork Posse
Originally Posted by NJRonbo
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
I think any car will wear too comfortably on an enthusiast making us yearn for more. I know I will occaisionally not drive my RL for a few days just to make me yearn for it and re-appreciate it again when I get back into the seat. I think it is good 'therapy' for those of us with perpetual new car fever.
And if you are going to lease for 3 years, and should it not be the car you prefer, hopefully the FMC RL will be introduced and worthy of your return to Acura. As much as I love my RL, if the FMC does not make up for what Acura did to the MMC, I too will likely look elsewhere.
Let us know if the CTS keeps returning the favor (love that campaign).
03-03-2008, 08:54 AM
#85
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by NJRonbo
I'm sort of on the edge of my seat here as to what car DWEST went with.
As far as I can see in this thread, he doesn't say.
I am just coming off my 3-year lease of a 2005 RL. To be honest, it's the
best car I have ever driven but after 3 years it has become bland for me.
I just test drove the Cadillac CTS and I was equally as impressed as DWEST.
The car is something to behold on the inside and its gadgets rival the RL. The
only two big things missing from the 2008 RL over the 2008 CTS is bluetooth
and a backup camera.
It was a painful decision to leave Acura and consider an American car, but I
ultimately chose the Cadillac CTS. I have read dozens upon dozens of reviews
on the Internet about this car and 1% of them had anything negative to say.
You combine that with the automobile being named CAR OF THE YEAR and it's
enough to make some RL owners curious.
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
As far as I can see in this thread, he doesn't say.
I am just coming off my 3-year lease of a 2005 RL. To be honest, it's the
best car I have ever driven but after 3 years it has become bland for me.
I just test drove the Cadillac CTS and I was equally as impressed as DWEST.
The car is something to behold on the inside and its gadgets rival the RL. The
only two big things missing from the 2008 RL over the 2008 CTS is bluetooth
and a backup camera.
It was a painful decision to leave Acura and consider an American car, but I
ultimately chose the Cadillac CTS. I have read dozens upon dozens of reviews
on the Internet about this car and 1% of them had anything negative to say.
You combine that with the automobile being named CAR OF THE YEAR and it's
enough to make some RL owners curious.
I look at it this way. I love Acura and its RL. I'm going to lease the CTS for
three years, but if Cadillac ultimately disappoints me, I'll be back!
NJRonbo, Our lease is not up yet, so I am still in the RL. THE CTS is the only car I could consider to replace the RL. My only concern would be reliability. Please keep us informed on that issue. Congrats, the CTS is a great car.
03-03-2008, 08:59 AM
#86
Go Big Blue!
Me too. Love to get a 6 month review. There's lots of good talk about the CTS these days but I'm not liking the styling of the current Caddy's. To edgy for me. It would have to offer me more reliability and features for the same price to get me interested.
03-03-2008, 11:13 AM
#87
Senior Moderator
The CTS is not a bad choice--I am another CTS fan....at least of the CTS-V 
. Cadillac still has to prove itself in terms or reliability, though. Please do share a comparo with us when you pick up the car. 
Be warned: There's still a long wait for the car. On the Caddy boards, I've read about waits of as long as four months. Hopefully, they've got what you need in stock or can easily swap from another dealer.
. Cadillac still has to prove itself in terms or reliability, though. Please do share a comparo with us when you pick up the car. Be warned: There's still a long wait for the car. On the Caddy boards, I've read about waits of as long as four months. Hopefully, they've got what you need in stock or can easily swap from another dealer.
03-03-2008, 11:18 AM
#88
I hate to come into the RL forum and talk about going to another
vehicle. I have been a loyal leaser and forum member who has praised
this vehicle from day one. I am also keeping any comments about the
CTS strictly to this thread.
My CTS will arrive in two weeks. However, you really need to go to
the Cadillac forum if you want to see just how much of a "car high"
owners are having with this vehicle.
http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums...se-thread.html
It's also very interesting how many people are stepping down from a Lexus,
Mercedes, BMW and Audi to find the CTS experience to be more satisfying.
http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums...exus-audi.html
The test drive was impressive enough for me to know I have never
wanted to get into a new car as badly as the CTS, though I still worry that
it may fall short of the RL -- especially with no bluetooth!
vehicle. I have been a loyal leaser and forum member who has praised
this vehicle from day one. I am also keeping any comments about the
CTS strictly to this thread.
My CTS will arrive in two weeks. However, you really need to go to
the Cadillac forum if you want to see just how much of a "car high"
owners are having with this vehicle.
http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums...se-thread.html
It's also very interesting how many people are stepping down from a Lexus,
Mercedes, BMW and Audi to find the CTS experience to be more satisfying.
http://www.cadillacforums.com/forums...exus-audi.html
The test drive was impressive enough for me to know I have never
wanted to get into a new car as badly as the CTS, though I still worry that
it may fall short of the RL -- especially with no bluetooth!
03-03-2008, 11:27 AM
#89
Go Big Blue!
No bluetooth is a deal breaker for me. I heard they weren't offering it on the Buicks (only Onstar) but I didn't realize that was something across the whole GM line. What are they thinking?
03-03-2008, 11:33 AM
#90
Senior Moderator
Nah, you shouldn't have to hate to do that. Most of us are Acura owners but love cars overall. The CTS is GM's best effort in years and I'm proud that we Americans still have enough guff to come up with a highly desirable car that's not a sports car. I'm glad you don't have to wait too long, I've been to those boards you quote and read stories from quick results (instant gratification? ) to months of anticipation.
Spicy, GM wants people to use OnStar so it makes some money for them. I'm sure they are hearing the outcry and will add BT on later, especially on Caddies.
) to months of anticipation.
Originally Posted by NJRonbo
I hate to come into the RL forum and talk about going to another
vehicle. I have been a loyal leaser and forum member who has praised
this vehicle from day one. I am also keeping any comments about the
CTS strictly to this thread.
vehicle. I have been a loyal leaser and forum member who has praised
this vehicle from day one. I am also keeping any comments about the
CTS strictly to this thread.
03-03-2008, 01:47 PM
#92
AcurAdmirer
Mikey, the lack of Bluetooth is GM's way of forcing people to use OnStar. The only problem is it won't work. There are zillions of BT-enabled cell phones out there, and they are stupid to think folks will just turn them off and pay OnStar (which GM owns) for cell phone service while driving.
I will be surprised if GM doesn't relent and include BT in their cars in the next year or two. Using OnStar for cell phone service is a double-whammy cost-wise, since it's limited to in-car use and you will still want a phone when you leave the car.
In the meantime, owners just have to use the handset, or else invest in one of the inexpensive hands-free BT devices ... which is what I did for my wife's Caddy. And it works well, BTW.
.
.
I will be surprised if GM doesn't relent and include BT in their cars in the next year or two. Using OnStar for cell phone service is a double-whammy cost-wise, since it's limited to in-car use and you will still want a phone when you leave the car.
In the meantime, owners just have to use the handset, or else invest in one of the inexpensive hands-free BT devices ... which is what I did for my wife's Caddy. And it works well, BTW.
.
.
03-03-2008, 01:51 PM
#93
AcurAdmirer
Originally Posted by neuronbob
Be warned: There's still a long wait for the car. On the Caddy boards, I've read about waits of as long as four months.
Now, if you're talking about the CTS-V, I'm sure there's a wait for those, but the regular CTS's are in stock in most places.
.
.
03-03-2008, 01:59 PM
#94
Go Big Blue!
Originally Posted by Mike_TX
Mikey, the lack of Bluetooth is GM's way of forcing people to use OnStar. The only problem is it won't work. There are zillions of BT-enabled cell phones out there, and they are stupid to think folks will just turn them off and pay OnStar (which GM owns) for cell phone service while driving.
I will be surprised if GM doesn't relent and include BT in their cars in the next year or two. Using OnStar for cell phone service is a double-whammy cost-wise, since it's limited to in-car use and you will still want a phone when you leave the car.
In the meantime, owners just have to use the handset, or else invest in one of the inexpensive hands-free BT devices ... which is what I did for my wife's Caddy. And it works well, BTW.
.
.
I will be surprised if GM doesn't relent and include BT in their cars in the next year or two. Using OnStar for cell phone service is a double-whammy cost-wise, since it's limited to in-car use and you will still want a phone when you leave the car.
In the meantime, owners just have to use the handset, or else invest in one of the inexpensive hands-free BT devices ... which is what I did for my wife's Caddy. And it works well, BTW.
.
.
03-03-2008, 03:01 PM
#96
Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
Me too. Love to get a 6 month review. There's lots of good talk about the CTS these days but I'm not liking the styling of the current Caddy's. To edgy for me. It would have to offer me more reliability and features for the same price to get me interested.
I'm with you on the CTS styling. It just doesn't do it for me. It's a bit too much bling for me w/ those fake exhaust ports and edgy front end styling. I've got a feeling those side ports are going to look real dated in a few years when that styling fad passes.
I guess I'll take the bland styling of the RL over the edgy styling of the CTS.
03-03-2008, 05:10 PM
#97
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by Mike_TX
Now, if you're talking about the CTS-V, I'm sure there's a wait for those, but the regular CTS's are in stock in most places.
Actually, the new CTS-V is due to be released in the fall.
500hp/500 lb-ft detuned Corvette engine, magnetic ride tuning, and all..... I can't wait to test drive it.Damn, I need to clean up my mess from drooling around here.
03-03-2008, 08:24 PM
#99
07 RL (non-tech)w/06 Nav
If i wasn't so worried about resale value, I too would have given the CTS a closer look. This is the best oportunity for an American car maker to move up the ladder.
quality, style, design & reliability are factors in making the Caddilac a viable player.
I really like the commercial..."when you turn your car on, does it return the favor" That is top shelf advertisement
quality, style, design & reliability are factors in making the Caddilac a viable player.
I really like the commercial..."when you turn your car on, does it return the favor" That is top shelf advertisement
03-03-2008, 10:03 PM
#100
2012 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
Originally Posted by larrynimmo
I really like the commercial..."when you turn your car on, does it return the favor" That is top shelf advertisement
"Precision Crafted Performance" was considered to geeky and didn't exude luxury.
Do any of you remember the forgettable "Some things are worth the price"?
"Advance" is OK, but it really doesn't want to get me to go out and check out a car.
Lexus had/has the best tag line ever.
While the current one is "Passionatly Pursuing Perfection", their original "The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection" was the best.
03-03-2008, 10:04 PM
#101
AcurAdmirer
Originally Posted by neuronbob
Enthusiasts are waiting for the FE2 or FE3 suspension (akin to our A-Spec suspension). The ones on the dealer's lots are likely RWD FE1s (softer suspension) without the DI engine--those are less popular.
Actually, the new CTS-V is due to be released in the fall. 500hp/500 lb-ft detuned Corvette engine, magnetic ride tuning, and all..... I can't wait to test drive it.
Damn, I need to clean up my mess from drooling around here.
Actually, the new CTS-V is due to be released in the fall.
500hp/500 lb-ft detuned Corvette engine, magnetic ride tuning, and all..... I can't wait to test drive it.Damn, I need to clean up my mess from drooling around here.
They had about a half-dozen DI's out on the front lot, and the sales guy told us they had "a few more" in back. True, there were some non-DI V-6's out there, too, but all the DI's were either FE2 or FE3's. They just don't order them with the DI engine and FE1, since it's the non-sport version with 17" wheels. They had only about 3 non-DI's.
There was a "shortage" of CTS's up until about the first week or so of February, but they are now trickling in. Maybe your info was from the shortage period.
.
.
03-03-2008, 10:10 PM
#102
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by Mike_TX
here was a "shortage" of CTS's up until about the first week or so of February, but they are now trickling in. Maybe your info was from the shortage period.
Honestly, the last time I checked around seriously was about the last week of January-first week of February.
03-03-2008, 10:42 PM
#103
Racer
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A major concern I have with any domestic manufacturer, no matter how good the car is, how well it's made, or resale value, is dealer service..
Hence my decision to not go with domestics.
Hence my decision to not go with domestics.
03-10-2008, 01:36 PM
#104
Not an Ashtray
I test drove the CTS this weekend. Was not nearly as impressed as some of you. My major beef was that the seats were horribly uncomfortable. My back hurt for a few hours afterwards, and it was just a 15 minute ride.
I also did not think that the fit and finish was all that great. There were some nice aspects, but a lot of cheap bits of plastic. Not Acura quality at all.
The upsides: The CTS had a BMW-like ride/handling trade-off. Very nice ride, but handled great. Engine and tranny were smooth as silk. And, the DI version gets 17/26 ON REGULAR. Hard not to be impressed.
Oh, and the Nav was the first I've seen that had a nicer interface than the Acura. It was very impressive.
Contrary to what is said above, it cannot be used while the vehicle is in motion. However, there is a lockpick module available for it which (from what I've read) works fine.
My only other take on the process was that the Caddy people were really nice. I guess they're used to older clients because they had a salesmen come out who was about 60, and he really couldn't have been nicer or more well-informed.
I also did not think that the fit and finish was all that great. There were some nice aspects, but a lot of cheap bits of plastic. Not Acura quality at all.
The upsides: The CTS had a BMW-like ride/handling trade-off. Very nice ride, but handled great. Engine and tranny were smooth as silk. And, the DI version gets 17/26 ON REGULAR. Hard not to be impressed.
Oh, and the Nav was the first I've seen that had a nicer interface than the Acura. It was very impressive.
Contrary to what is said above, it cannot be used while the vehicle is in motion. However, there is a lockpick module available for it which (from what I've read) works fine.
My only other take on the process was that the Caddy people were really nice. I guess they're used to older clients because they had a salesmen come out who was about 60, and he really couldn't have been nicer or more well-informed.
03-17-2008, 02:01 PM
#105
Black
My opinion: rent a CTS from Budget or Avis for a weekend.
I just had a Cadillac STS last week and it wasn't too bad. GM has come a long way. Only beef was the slightly vague on-center steering (but leaps and bounds better than GM cars of 10 years ago).
I just had a Cadillac STS last week and it wasn't too bad. GM has come a long way. Only beef was the slightly vague on-center steering (but leaps and bounds better than GM cars of 10 years ago).
03-24-2008, 06:25 PM
#106
I'll give you some initial impressions and then come back in a few weeks
to give you a full review.
I just took possession of a CTS after leasing an RL for the past three years.
Here are a few random thoughts....
The ride is comparable to the RL. The seating is not as plush and as a result
is a little less comfortable.
The stereo system, a more powerful Bose than the RL, does not sound nearly
as crisp. I am rather disappointed in the overall sound quality. On the plus side,
the Radio/Nav/XM/HDD/Aux display is miles ahead of the Acura. I was amazed that
I could store 36 presets of anything I wanted. There is more music information
displayed on the both the XM side and (for the first time I have seem) on the
FM Side.
The backseat area is smaller than the RL. Trunk space seems to be the same.
It's still too early to really do a full comparison, but I promise to be back soon.
to give you a full review.
I just took possession of a CTS after leasing an RL for the past three years.
Here are a few random thoughts....
The ride is comparable to the RL. The seating is not as plush and as a result
is a little less comfortable.
The stereo system, a more powerful Bose than the RL, does not sound nearly
as crisp. I am rather disappointed in the overall sound quality. On the plus side,
the Radio/Nav/XM/HDD/Aux display is miles ahead of the Acura. I was amazed that
I could store 36 presets of anything I wanted. There is more music information
displayed on the both the XM side and (for the first time I have seem) on the
FM Side.
The backseat area is smaller than the RL. Trunk space seems to be the same.
It's still too early to really do a full comparison, but I promise to be back soon.
04-02-2008, 10:48 AM
#107
Hello guys!
This will be my final post on the CTS and, regrettably, my last post on
this forum as I have returned my 2005 RL lease and stepped into the CTS.
Though it has only been a week since taking delivery I think I have spent
enough time with my loaded DI CTS to know that it is a far more enjoyable
vehicle to drive compared to the RL.
I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever want to drive an
American car again. I still feel the Japanese make more reliable vehicles, but
I am rather impressed with what Cadillac has been able to accomplish with a
vehicle like the CTS.
Every time I open the vehicle door and hear a resounding "ka-thump" I know
that I'm about to sit in a cabin that is soundproofed from the outside world --
and indeed it is. The ride is quieter than the RL though some people have
complained about wind noise caused by the sunroof (though I have not noticed
this at all).
The ride between the RL and the CTS seem to be comparable. Both offer a
smooth ride with great handling in turns. I think the FE2 suspension on the
CTS absorbs road bumps better than the RL did.
The navigation system is certainly more colorful and informative than the
RL, though the RL has better recalculation time. The most dramatic improvement
in the CTS is that XM traffic is better integrated with the NAV routing system,
instantly alerting you of conditions as you approach them. On a recent trip up
the Garden State Parkway I was alerted to merging traffic conditions a few miles
before I actually hit it. This never happened while driving on the RL.
I prefer the stereo system on the RL. It sounds much more clear and crisp than
the CTS despite the fact that both are top-of-the-line systems made by Bose. Both
offer DVD audio playback. The CTS actually plays DVDs in PARK (a lockpick adds
playback while in motion). The RL has no DVD playback whatsoever.
The CTS has parking assist with beeps that alert you to obstacles that may be
in your way during backup. The RL has an actual backup camera.
The RL has more legroom in the driver's seat. The AWD CTS is much narrower
and tall drivers are openly complaining about the discomfort on their legs. Speaking
of which, the seats are less comfortable on the CTS as they are on the RL.
Bluetooth is finally coming to vehicles produced after April 7th.
The RL is primed for PREMIUM gas. The CTS is primed for REGULAR.
Honestly, I love both the Acura RL and Cadillac CTS. It's a difficult choice which
car to pick. I do think there is something very special about driving the CTS and
I'm enjoying the ride far more than I ever did with the RL. I think that I am getting
most all the benefits of the ride the RL gave me with the sportiness and "coolness
factor" that I couldn't get. The CTS is the perfect blend of sportiness and luxury
that I have been yearning for and never expected to find as an American brand.
This will be my final post on the CTS and, regrettably, my last post on
this forum as I have returned my 2005 RL lease and stepped into the CTS.
Though it has only been a week since taking delivery I think I have spent
enough time with my loaded DI CTS to know that it is a far more enjoyable
vehicle to drive compared to the RL.
I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever want to drive an
American car again. I still feel the Japanese make more reliable vehicles, but
I am rather impressed with what Cadillac has been able to accomplish with a
vehicle like the CTS.
Every time I open the vehicle door and hear a resounding "ka-thump" I know
that I'm about to sit in a cabin that is soundproofed from the outside world --
and indeed it is. The ride is quieter than the RL though some people have
complained about wind noise caused by the sunroof (though I have not noticed
this at all).
The ride between the RL and the CTS seem to be comparable. Both offer a
smooth ride with great handling in turns. I think the FE2 suspension on the
CTS absorbs road bumps better than the RL did.
The navigation system is certainly more colorful and informative than the
RL, though the RL has better recalculation time. The most dramatic improvement
in the CTS is that XM traffic is better integrated with the NAV routing system,
instantly alerting you of conditions as you approach them. On a recent trip up
the Garden State Parkway I was alerted to merging traffic conditions a few miles
before I actually hit it. This never happened while driving on the RL.
I prefer the stereo system on the RL. It sounds much more clear and crisp than
the CTS despite the fact that both are top-of-the-line systems made by Bose. Both
offer DVD audio playback. The CTS actually plays DVDs in PARK (a lockpick adds
playback while in motion). The RL has no DVD playback whatsoever.
The CTS has parking assist with beeps that alert you to obstacles that may be
in your way during backup. The RL has an actual backup camera.
The RL has more legroom in the driver's seat. The AWD CTS is much narrower
and tall drivers are openly complaining about the discomfort on their legs. Speaking
of which, the seats are less comfortable on the CTS as they are on the RL.
Bluetooth is finally coming to vehicles produced after April 7th.
The RL is primed for PREMIUM gas. The CTS is primed for REGULAR.
Honestly, I love both the Acura RL and Cadillac CTS. It's a difficult choice which
car to pick. I do think there is something very special about driving the CTS and
I'm enjoying the ride far more than I ever did with the RL. I think that I am getting
most all the benefits of the ride the RL gave me with the sportiness and "coolness
factor" that I couldn't get. The CTS is the perfect blend of sportiness and luxury
that I have been yearning for and never expected to find as an American brand.
04-02-2008, 11:38 AM
#108
Three Wheelin'
Thread Starter
Originally Posted by NJRonbo
Hello guys!
This will be my final post on the CTS and, regrettably, my last post on
this forum as I have returned my 2005 RL lease and stepped into the CTS.
Though it has only been a week since taking delivery I think I have spent
enough time with my loaded DI CTS to know that it is a far more enjoyable
vehicle to drive compared to the RL.
I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever want to drive an
American car again. I still feel the Japanese make more reliable vehicles, but
I am rather impressed with what Cadillac has been able to accomplish with a
vehicle like the CTS.
Every time I open the vehicle door and hear a resounding "ka-thump" I know
that I'm about to sit in a cabin that is soundproofed from the outside world --
and indeed it is. The ride is quieter than the RL though some people have
complained about wind noise caused by the sunroof (though I have not noticed
this at all).
The ride between the RL and the CTS seem to be comparable. Both offer a
smooth ride with great handling in turns. I think the FE2 suspension on the
CTS absorbs road bumps better than the RL did.
The navigation system is certainly more colorful and informative than the
RL, though the RL has better recalculation time. The most dramatic improvement
in the CTS is that XM traffic is better integrated with the NAV routing system,
instantly alerting you of conditions as you approach them. On a recent trip up
the Garden State Parkway I was alerted to merging traffic conditions a few miles
before I actually hit it. This never happened while driving on the RL.
I prefer the stereo system on the RL. It sounds much more clear and crisp than
the CTS despite the fact that both are top-of-the-line systems made by Bose. Both
offer DVD audio playback. The CTS actually plays DVDs in PARK (a lockpick adds
playback while in motion). The RL has no DVD playback whatsoever.
The CTS has parking assist with beeps that alert you to obstacles that may be
in your way during backup. The RL has an actual backup camera.
The RL has more legroom in the driver's seat. The AWD CTS is much narrower
and tall drivers are openly complaining about the discomfort on their legs. Speaking
of which, the seats are less comfortable on the CTS as they are on the RL.
Bluetooth is finally coming to vehicles produced after April 7th.
The RL is primed for PREMIUM gas. The CTS is primed for REGULAR.
Honestly, I love both the Acura RL and Cadillac CTS. It's a difficult choice which
car to pick. I do think there is something very special about driving the CTS and
I'm enjoying the ride far more than I ever did with the RL. I think that I am getting
most all the benefits of the ride the RL gave me with the sportiness and "coolness
factor" that I couldn't get. The CTS is the perfect blend of sportiness and luxury
that I have been yearning for and never expected to find as an American brand.
This will be my final post on the CTS and, regrettably, my last post on
this forum as I have returned my 2005 RL lease and stepped into the CTS.
Though it has only been a week since taking delivery I think I have spent
enough time with my loaded DI CTS to know that it is a far more enjoyable
vehicle to drive compared to the RL.
I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would ever want to drive an
American car again. I still feel the Japanese make more reliable vehicles, but
I am rather impressed with what Cadillac has been able to accomplish with a
vehicle like the CTS.
Every time I open the vehicle door and hear a resounding "ka-thump" I know
that I'm about to sit in a cabin that is soundproofed from the outside world --
and indeed it is. The ride is quieter than the RL though some people have
complained about wind noise caused by the sunroof (though I have not noticed
this at all).
The ride between the RL and the CTS seem to be comparable. Both offer a
smooth ride with great handling in turns. I think the FE2 suspension on the
CTS absorbs road bumps better than the RL did.
The navigation system is certainly more colorful and informative than the
RL, though the RL has better recalculation time. The most dramatic improvement
in the CTS is that XM traffic is better integrated with the NAV routing system,
instantly alerting you of conditions as you approach them. On a recent trip up
the Garden State Parkway I was alerted to merging traffic conditions a few miles
before I actually hit it. This never happened while driving on the RL.
I prefer the stereo system on the RL. It sounds much more clear and crisp than
the CTS despite the fact that both are top-of-the-line systems made by Bose. Both
offer DVD audio playback. The CTS actually plays DVDs in PARK (a lockpick adds
playback while in motion). The RL has no DVD playback whatsoever.
The CTS has parking assist with beeps that alert you to obstacles that may be
in your way during backup. The RL has an actual backup camera.
The RL has more legroom in the driver's seat. The AWD CTS is much narrower
and tall drivers are openly complaining about the discomfort on their legs. Speaking
of which, the seats are less comfortable on the CTS as they are on the RL.
Bluetooth is finally coming to vehicles produced after April 7th.
The RL is primed for PREMIUM gas. The CTS is primed for REGULAR.
Honestly, I love both the Acura RL and Cadillac CTS. It's a difficult choice which
car to pick. I do think there is something very special about driving the CTS and
I'm enjoying the ride far more than I ever did with the RL. I think that I am getting
most all the benefits of the ride the RL gave me with the sportiness and "coolness
factor" that I couldn't get. The CTS is the perfect blend of sportiness and luxury
that I have been yearning for and never expected to find as an American brand.
Nice write up. I started this thread after I took a test drive and I was just as impressed as you were. Cadillac, has done a great job with this car. I might be joining you you , though right now, my heart is beating for the the new Jaguar XF. Right now, thats the car to beat in my book. Till all the noise dies down, MSRP is all that is offered. Jag is selling them off the truck. I will be in the showroom once the oven cools down. Enjoy the CTS, it as awesome car.
04-02-2008, 12:42 PM
#109
Alpha Geek
Originally Posted by SpicyMikey
I'm sincerely stumped by the unbelievably low sales. I can't see the problem, but that might be because there is just no problem for me personally.
Did you see the two hicks that won the HUGE Mega Millions jackpot recently?
The no-toothed wife wanted a Mercedes...do you think it's because it's a finely tuned and enginneered motor car? HELL no, it's because she thinks it'll make all her inbred relatives and mouth breather friends jealous.
Better yet, the husband wanted a pickup.
04-02-2008, 10:32 PM
#110
Senior Moderator
Thanks for the writeup, ronbo. It's about fricken time Cadillac put BT in the CTS.
Luckily for me, I am about to take delivery of an AP1 S2K (9k rpm FTW!
), so my new car fever has died down somewhat and I'll be able to relax/enjoy the RL.
Enjoy the CTS, it is the best car Detroit has offered in YEARS. I love it!
Luckily for me, I am about to take delivery of an AP1 S2K (9k rpm FTW!
), so my new car fever has died down somewhat and I'll be able to relax/enjoy the RL.Enjoy the CTS, it is the best car Detroit has offered in YEARS. I love it!
04-03-2008, 07:15 AM
#111
Alpha Geek
Originally Posted by neuronbob
Luckily for me, I am about to take delivery of an AP1 S2K (9k rpm FTW!
), so my new car fever has died down somewhat and I'll be able to relax/enjoy the RL. An excellent choice. Now go find a Boxster to embarrass!
04-10-2008, 11:30 PM
#112
Team WDP Surgeon General
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Fort Worth, Texas
Posts: 153
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Originally Posted by GoHawks
I agree. After all these years Acura still hasn't found a tag line that resonates.
"Precision Crafted Performance" was considered to geeky and didn't exude luxury.
Do any of you remember the forgettable "Some things are worth the price"?
"Advance" is OK, but it really doesn't want to get me to go out and check out a car.
Lexus had/has the best tag line ever.
While the current one is "Passionately Pursuing Perfection", their original "The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection" was the best.
"Precision Crafted Performance" was considered to geeky and didn't exude luxury.
Do any of you remember the forgettable "Some things are worth the price"?
"Advance" is OK, but it really doesn't want to get me to go out and check out a car.
Lexus had/has the best tag line ever.
While the current one is "Passionately Pursuing Perfection", their original "The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection" was the best.
It was great!!! It showed a Cadillac zooming along the desert and then said "A look at what Lexus is relentlessly pursuing" Granted it's nonsense but a great add.
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