The Best Year For The Cadillac CTS

in Best Year/Make/Model
black Cadillac CTS

Cadillac CTSby MichalPL — CC BY-SA 4.0

With the continued domination by practical SUVs in the market, many experts and customers believe that the Great American Sedan era is ending. It’s easy to think that when many car manufacturers have dialed down or even stopped their sedan production. That’s not the case with Cadillac, as it helped push the luxury sedan movement with the Cadillac CTS – even with its eventual discontinuation.

If you’re looking to buy a used Cadillac CTS, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s an overall reliable luxury sedan. However, like all car models, some years are better than others. So what’s the best year for Cadillac CTS?

We deliberated long and hard, and eventually, we at CoPilot decided that the 2016 version was the best year for Cadillac CTS. We had to consider several criteria like reliability, features, specs, and value for the money. Let’s take a look!

2016 Is the Best Year for Cadillac CTS

Looking at the reliability track record of the Cadillac CTS lineup, we knew right away to count out the earliest models since they seem to have the most mechanical problems. The more recent models are proven more reliable based on reviews and customer satisfaction, especially with the last CTS generation (2016-2019).

The 2016 Cadillac CTS boasts a powerful range of engines, including the V6 and V8 powertrains. In terms of performance, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2016 Cadillac CTS. Plus, the interior offers enough luxury and features to justify the premium pricing. However, it does have an unrefined base engine, making it less ideal for daily driving. As a sports cruiser, however, the 2016 version promises a good time.

The 2016 model is the best year for Cadillac CTS, but the succeeding model years are also worth a look.


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How Much is the 2016 Cadillac CTS?

According to Truecar.com, a used 2016 Cadillac CTS has a price range between $13,995 to $33,990. Of course, prices will vary based on several factors like the vehicle’s mileage, condition, location, features, and history. Also, compared to other cars, there are only a few listings for the 2016 CTS, so you better be fast on your feet.

For the base Standard 2016 CTS sedan, you get a 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. If you’re looking for a good deal on a high-mileage 2016 CTS with 88k miles and AWD, you can buy a used one for $16,500. On the flip side, we found a low-mileage 2016 CTS with 30k miles and RWD for $23,000.

Moving on to the Luxury trim, you can upgrade to a 3.6L V6 Flex-fuel engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. One of the best prices we’ve seen for a 2016 CTS Luxury with 100k miles and AWD is $17,990. Meanwhile, a lower mileage 2016 CTS with 30k miles and RWD can be yours for $27,823.

Lastly, when buying a used 2016 CTS Premium trim, you have slim pickings. The lowest price we’ve found for a 2016 CTS with 115k miles, RWD, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine for about $19,498. On the other hand, a used 2016 CTS with 13k miles, RWD, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine is up for grabs for $33,990.

Overall, prices are reasonable for a used 2016 Cadillac CTS, but unfortunately, there are only a few listings.


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The Specs of the 2016 Cadillac CTS

One of the main reasons CoPilot recommends the 2016 Cadillac CTS is that it offers plenty of upgrades over its predecessors. These upgrades include a revised technology (upgraded CUE infotainment interface), an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a beefier 3.6-liter V6 engine. It comes with a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 268 hp, which is frankly quite unrefined by today’s standards.

The real bread and butter engine of the 2016 Cadillac CTS is the 3.6-liter V6, a bigger and better fit for the luxury sedan. The V6 engine cranks out 335 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque and boasts a 0-60 mph acceleration in less than six seconds. In addition, there’s also a twin-turbo version of the V6 called Vsport, capable of 420 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque.

The 2016 CTS also features a delightful interior that matches its luxury branding. The 8-inch infotainment screen and digital cluster gauge look modern, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Also, the high level of craftsmanship, sophisticated materials, and ample personal space won’t go unnoticed.

According to FuelEconomy.gov, the base engine with rear-wheel drive has 21/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined fuel economy ratings.


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2016 Cadillac CTS Reliability and Recalls

According to RepairPal, the Cadillac CTS lineup has a reliability score of 3.5 out of 5.0, an Above Average rating. The cost of ownership for the CTS for repairs and maintenance will cost you $663, which is slightly lower than average compared to other luxury brands. Meanwhile, J.D. Power gave the 2016 Cadillac CTS a 78100 score for its Quality and Reliability category.

CarComplaints.com also paints a favorable picture of the 2016 CTS’ reliability, with only 45 complaints. Its major issues are:

  • Transmission noise
  • Body vibrations
  • The Cadillac CUE system went out

As of this writing, there are two safety recalls for the 2016 CTS, including an issue with seat heaters and faulty electric power steering (EPS).

2016 Cadillac CTS Safety Features and Ratings

The 2016 Cadillac CTS earned a 5-star rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS crashworthiness tests. However, it did poorly in the Headlights category due to poor headlight visibility.

The luxury sedan has a wide range of standard safety features like antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints, a rearview camera, and more. It also has a long list of advanced safety features, including active lane keep assist, blind spot warning, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, etc.


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Other Cadillac CTS Years to Consider

One of the most robust alternatives to the 2016 CTS is the 2018 version, which benefits from a modest exterior update and new driver assistance and tech features. However, most people will find more value in the 2016 model because it offers a better balance of price and features.

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