I must admit, there’s something truly delightful about a sleeper car. The sheer joy of surprising fellow drivers with unexpected power and performance hidden beneath an unassuming exterior is simply unmatched.
Over the years, several automakers have treated us to factory sleepers, and now, two models from Cadillac have become too enticingly affordable to overlook. You can now snag one for a price lower than that of a brand-new Honda Accord.
Back in the mid-2010s, Cadillac was eager to rival its German counterparts. With the CTS and ATS serving as BMW 3 and 5 Series competitors, and the exceptional V versions dominating the performance game, the brand sought to cater to those seeking something between the full-on V and the standard luxury Cadillac experience. Enter the V-Sport trim.
While one might assume that the V-Sport trim merely offered superficial enhancements akin to BMW’s M Sport or Audi’s S-Line, Cadillac took a different approach. V-Sport models were genuine performance machines, and Cadillac rolled out this trim for two models: the CTS and XTS full-size sedan.
The XTS V-Sport, although more understated, was nothing short of impressive. Fitted with a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 producing 410 horsepower, along with features like all-wheel drive, torque vectoring, and Magnetic Ride Control System, it was no ordinary luxury sedan.
On the other hand, the CTS-V Sport, priced just under $62,000, boasted the same twin-turbo V6 with 420 hp, adaptive magnetorheological shocks, Brembo brakes, and an electronic limited-slip rear diff, delivering a performance that rivaled or surpassed the first-generation CTS-V.
Now, as these models age, they’ve become some of the best-kept performance secrets in the market. While low-mileage examples may still fetch a hefty price, those willing to consider higher-mileage options can snag these gems for a steal.
For instance, a 2014 CTS-V Sport with just over 62,000 miles is listed at $22,998 in Florida, offering a compelling option for those seeking more excitement than a used Civic or Corolla.
Similarly, an XTS V-Sport in Mississippi, priced at just $20,995 despite its 85,519 miles, presents a tempting proposition for buyers in search of speed, comfort, and understated elegance.
In essence, if you’re in the market for a vehicle that combines performance, comfort, and the ability to fly under the radar, a V-Sport Cadillac might just be your perfect match.
Also read: Cadillac’s Evolution: From Luxury Sedans to Bespoke Wagons
