I drove 2 2008 CTS cars today. One had the standard 3.5 VVT and the second had the 3.5 Direct Injection engine. I was not able to drive the direct injection car on the interstate so I could not due an apples to apples comparison. Looking at it on paper the torque on the standard engine peaks at a much lower rpm (253 @3100) than the direct injection (273 @5200). I would expect the standard engine to feel more responsive in everyday driving.
On 55 mph roads both felt equally responsive to me. The standard certainly hit 70 mph on the on ramp in a heart beat. I am wondering if the direct injection is worth the extra money, they seem to be in shorter supply. The direct injection had a firmer suspension option and that was noticible to both myself and the wife.
Any thoughts

 

Just picked up a 2008 CTS AWD performance suspension, 18" all season wheels and tires. with direct port. Both engines are VVT. The DP is 304HP, and non is 263HP a big difference onlow end acceleration and performance. On smooth roads the cars rides flawless and quiet. On bumps and raised tar strips it is firm and harsh. We live on a dirt back road, and compared to my wifes previous 2002 Bonn. SSEI, the 2008 CTS isquieter, smoother, quicker. LOVE IT SO FAR.I hate the Eurpoean style tilt steering GM is going with, so went with the level 2 package with the fullpower tilt and telescopic, which actually drops downto what I am use to with old GM.This car is more like drivinga vette then a family car.

All I can say isI am glad I dumped my 2004 CTSV.. no comparison....


Shaun

 

fyi, they are 3.6 L engines

 

Doesn't matter any more. Picked up a Red CTS with Direct Injection tonight. In a word ......AWESOME!