Engine & Transmission
The CTS comes standard with a 3.0-liter V-6 engine, but our test car's optional 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic transmission are a special pair among drivetrains. The transmission's shifts are unobtrusive, and it's always in the right gear for the driving situation. The automatic is also incredibly responsive; press down on the gas pedal and it downshifts immediately. A lot of automatics make you wait before kicking down, which makes it refreshing to drive one that's so attentive to the driver's wishes.
The 3.6-liter V-6 has power in reserve for accelerating around other cars on the highway, and the transmission responsiveness remains. The sedan moves out well, and the V-6's mechanical growl sounds good in the process. This V-6 makes more power for 2012 — 318 horsepower, an increase of 14 hp — and is also 20 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The engine received a number of changes, including new cylinder heads with integrated exhaust manifolds, a composite intake manifold and lighter, stronger connecting rods.
With the automatic transmission, the 3.6-liter V-6 is rated at an EPA-estimated 18/27 mpg city/highway. That's slightly better than the 2012 Infiniti M37's estimate of 18/26 mpg, but it trails the ratings for the 2012 BMW 535i (21/31 mpg) and the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350 (20/30 mpg). However, unlike those three models, the CTS can run on regular gas as opposed to more expensive premium fuel. Only the supercharged CTS-V requires premium.
See also:
Checking Coolant
The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking the coolant level.
Check to see if coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank. If the coolant
inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, do no ...
Child Restraint Systems
(A) Rear-Facing Infant Seat
A rear-facing infant seat (A) provides restraint with the seating surface
against the back of the infant.
The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a ...
Tire and Loading Information Label
Label Example
A vehicle specific Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the center
pillar (B-pillar). With the driver door open, you will find the label attached below
the door lock ...