2003 CTS - Good Used Car Buy

[harrison512]

I recently bought a 5-speed 2003 CTS with 49k miles on it. Luxury package. It took me months to research and narrow down what I wanted... a stickshift 6-cylinder sports sedan.

Though I've had a number of warranty/service issues, one month later, I still feel it's a very good used car buy - especially compared to other competing sports sedans like the Infiniti G35, BMW 3-series, Audi A4, etc... I also hunted for a CTS with a build date that incorporated the updated safety enhancements that improved its crash rating.


What I like about the CTS

• Styling - very distinct
• Handling/Ride - I think the CTS has a nicer balance between handling/luxury ride than the competition
• Dash design - very futuristic and distinct
• Size - very comfortable compared to the smaller European cars
• Safety features
• Great BOSE stereo
• Wood interior trim

What I don't like, at this point

• Trunk lid has no handle
• Parking brake is old-fashioned pedal
• No locking gas cap - I bought one
• No pop-open fuel door
• Rearview mirror murky
• Fold-down rear seat wasn't standard
• No iPod jack

So far, a real pleasure to drive. And it's a Cadillac!

[Lord Cadillac]

Great review. Thank you!

[Benzilla]

Yeah, nice review. You mentioned that you liked the wood interior trim, I can't remember, do the CTS's have real wood or plastic?

[Adam]

real wood, Ben.

[Benzilla]

Cool, thanks. I knew some of the newer Devilles had fake, so I wasn't sure about the CTS.

[ImAShakiraholic]

Yeah I just bought a 03 CTS on MLK day. Your review is perfect, I did the same thing. I almost bought a Crystler 300 then a G35 later I saw the CTS, test drove it and won my heart.