Cadillac launched its all-new CTS-V for 2009, based on its recently-redesigned CTS sedan. Power comes from GM's new 6.2-liter supercharged LSA motor. A rating of 556 horsepower and 551 pound-feet of torque should satisfy Cadillac's most demanding customers, giving the BMW M5 and Mercedes E63 some serious competition.

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"The CTS-V represents the full extension of our design, technology and performance capabilities," says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The V-Series takes the award-winning CTS sport sedan and elevates it to a position within the club of the world's most exclusive and capable cars."

The exterior is highlighted by a mesh grille and lower intake, a sculpted hood with engine bulge, 19-inch wheels, wider fenders, and quad tailpipes.

GM has carried its Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) suspension system over to the CTS-V. The technology -- which also appears in the new Corvette ZR1 -- uses shocks controlled by electro-magnets, rather than mechanical valves. This makes MRC the world's fastest-reacting suspension technology, according to GM.

Electronic sensors at all four wheels "read the road" every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create a smooth ride when appropriate, and a firm ride when required. The technology prevents body roll during hard corners, yet keeps passengers comfortable while cruising.

Another electronic system -- Performance Traction Management -- is a traction control technology borrowed from championship racing. While most traction control programs monitor and control wheel slip for enhanced drivability in poor conditions, PTM regulates torque delivery to instantly match the available tire grip for maximum acceleration.

The sedan's Brembo brakes feature six pistons per caliper up front and four per caliper at the back. Combined with grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires, the CTS-V has massive stopping ability.

Transmission choices include either a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual or a Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Manually-equipped CTS-Vs tip the scales at 4,200 pounds, with the automatic adding another 100. The engine's immense power is owed in part to a sixth-generation Eaton supercharger, which minimizes the added noise previously associated with supercharged engines, and tightly controls intake air temperature for better performance.

"From the very start, engineers were cognizant of the role a high-performance engine plays in supporting the qualities customers expect in a Cadillac," said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "The supercharged LSA engine delivers outstanding performance, but maximum power didn't come at the expense of refinement or quietness."

The car has Recaro performance driving seats, with 14-way adjustment and pneumatic bolster controls. The seats, steering wheel, and shifter also feature microfiber material inserts, which mimic the appearance of suede without the required maintenance and ease of damage.

Electronic features include a 40-gigabyte hard drive, advanced navigation system with a "pop-up" screen, Bose digital surround audio, and Bluetooth.