Category: Compact Executive 
Price Range: No data available
A unique proposition, distinctive from the usual (German) contenders, high-performance CTS-V model and its sharp handling
Quality not quite what it should be, not much rear legroom, unforgiving ride, no diesel option
Hugely amusing CTS-V is a credible sports saloon, and well worth a look; V6s are less convincing
No cars with engines this powerful are going to be economical; the 2.8 V6 returns 24.1 mpg (and 278 g/km carbon dioxide) and the less stressed 3.6 V6 is marginally better (24.4 mpg, 275 g/km). Highest tax bands, then, and you'll have to pay £25 a day if you enter the London congestion charging zone from October 2008 onwards. Depreciation will also be higher than for comparable European-brand cars this size.
