The Cadillac CTS-V, a high-performance luxury sedan, was offered with all-wheel drive for a period. This drivetrain configuration distributes power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in challenging driving conditions or during spirited acceleration. For example, improved handling on wet or snowy roads and more controlled cornering at higher speeds are potential benefits. This stands in contrast to rear-wheel drive systems where power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels.
The availability of enhanced traction provided advantages in terms of performance and safety. It allowed drivers to more readily access the vehicle’s substantial power output without loss of control due to wheel spin. Historically, all-wheel drive was less common in high-performance vehicles, often associated with off-road capability rather than on-road performance enhancement. The adoption of this technology in a performance sedan like the CTS-V reflected a shift towards maximizing performance and driver confidence in a wider range of driving conditions.