2014 Cadillac CTS Base Price Climbs Almost $7,000

Adjusting its aim for a higher market segment, Cadillac announced pricing today for its all-new CTS sedan.

Riding on the same platform as the smaller ATS, which competes with the BMW 3 Series, Cadillac’s new 5 Series fighter enters the market with a $46,025 base MSRP. That price will give buyers the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the mid-range ATS.

That price marks a $6,930 jump over the outgoing generation and signals the maker’s intent to target German luxury brands more directly. With its new price, the CTS is roughly $1,700 cheaper than the entry-level BMW 5 Series. It also reaches 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, which is 1.5 faster than the outgoing base model.

Three engines will be available when the car reaches dealerships this fall. The aforementioned 2.0-liter turbo four will be one while there will also be the 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 in the mid-range car and a potent twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 for the Vsport model. Both the base and mid-range engine will be offered with rear- and all-wheel drive while the Vsport model will only power its rear wheels.

Seeking to improve the car’s performance credibility, Cadillac will now offer 17-inch front Brembo brakes as standard equipment on all models. Magnetic Ride Control is also now standard on all models with 18-inch wheels. All Vsport models come with Magnetic Ride Control, but both the base and mid-level cars can also be equipped with the advanced suspension system. Drivers will need to upgrade to the mid-range “performance” trim.

SEE ALSO: 2014 Cadillac CTS Vsport is a Genuine German Alternative

The cars also offer selectable drive modes including one for snow and ice, another for touring and finally a sport mode. Jump up to the Vsport model and you’ll also get a “track” mode, which adjusts the suspension with specific calibration for driving on its namesake.

That model also climbs above the range-topping CTS from 2013 to a base $59,995 including delivery, or $905 more than before. But for that price, the car comes with significant performance enhancements and more power than the BMW 5 Series for less money; a play less subtle than Ted Nugent’s political views.