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Shanghai-designed concept

By Chris Jackson
January 11, 2008 9:45 AM
Filed Under: American, Buick, Concept Car, Detroit Auto Show

The critically acclaimed 2008 Cadillac CTS has racked up yet another award, as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) labeled it a Top Safety Pick. Thanks to uniformly high crash-test scores and standard active safety features like GM's Stabilitrak stability control, the CTS was chosen as a standout even in the ultra-competitive luxury market.

Introduced in September as an early 2008 model, the all-new CTS has already garnered such accolades as Motor Trend's Car of the Year award and a spot on Car and Driver's 10Best list. The refined sports sedan is a striking tribute to Cadillac's ability to build world-class vehicles.

With its all-new 304-horsepower direct-injection 3.6 liter V6, a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive and styling inspired by Cadillac's concept cars, the CTS' performance and looks have given sports-sedan enthusiasts reason to sit up and take notice. The upcoming CTS-V ups the performance ante even higher. The IIHS award suggests that the CTS' appeal extends beyond the horsepower and performance. This is reflected in the sales as well, which are up almost 60% since September.

Source: GM Corp

Press Release (Click to expand)

Cadillac CTS Receives IIHS Top Safety Pick Award

DETROIT – Cadillac’s new 2008 CTS sports sedan, already a hit with critics and luxury consumers, today earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick for 2008.

The award results from CTS earning the Institute’s highest ratings in front, side and rear crash testing, as well as standard application of Stabilitrak electronic stability control system, which can help drivers avoid crashes. The CTS is one of only three large luxury cars to earn this designation.

“All luxury cars should perform as well as the CTS. It’s a leader in its class for safety,” said Institute President Adrian Lund.

In 2007, the Institute toughened the Top Safety Pick award criteria by requiring electronic stability control, which can help drivers maintain vehicle control, particularly in severe conditions such as wet or icy surfaces, or during emergency maneuvers.

“IIHS is one of the top authorities on vehicle safety, making this award particularly meaningful for, and trusted by, consumers,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “As the new 2008 CTS wins praise from industry experts, media and consumers, it is a testament to our team’s comprehensive mission to make this car desirable in every facet and detail.”

Since the 2008 CTS debuted in September, sales have increased 59.5%. CTS has received wide critical acclaim, highlighted by earning Motor Trend’s 2008 Car of the Year Award and selections on both Car and Driver magazine’s 10Best List and the finalist list for North American Car of the Year.

For more information on the Top Safety Pick award, visit www.IIHS.org

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