Cadillac CTS vs Acura TL 02/04/2011
In terms of mid-range luxury sedans, $35,000 is a good figure to shoot for in terms of what buyers can expect to pay. We recently pitted two cars close to this price point against each other to see which offered drivers more bang for their buck.
The Cadillac CTS starts at $35,165, while the Acura TL is slightly more expensive at $35,305. The Acura TL is covered for one year longer on its warranty, with six years besting the Acura's five-year pledge. However, the CTS bests the TL's mileage coverage by 30,000, as it is protected for 100,000 miles compared to just 70,000 for the TL. Bottom line: the CTS is better for those planning to drive more than 14,000 miles per year, while the TL is best for those below that figure.
Under the hood, the advantage goes the TL, with a V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. The CTS can only manage 270 hp and 223 lb-ft.
The interior goes to the TL as well, with a standard iPod hookup, heated seats, and Bluetooth beating anything that the CTS has to offer. It's worth noting that those willing to upgrade to a more expensive trim level will have a few more options on the CTS, but it will cost them.
In the end, the TL's performance, interior and warranty give it the edge over the CTS.