General Motors boosts output of the Cadillac CTS V6 for 2012

General Motors has reworked the 3.6-liter V6 engine used in the CTS for the 2012 model year, boosting output while maintaining the fuel-economy ratings of the less-powerful V6 from 2011.

The 2012 version of the V6 delivers 318 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. That compares with 304 hp and 273 lb-ft for the 2011 version. Fuel economy remains at 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

The major changes include larger intake valves and a revised intake port design for better engine breathing. A longer duration for the intake cam lets more air flow into each cylinder.

GM shaved about 21 pounds off the engine by switching from an aluminum to a plastic intake manifold, adopting an integrated cylinder head and exhaust manifold design, and using lighter-weight connecting rods and structural front cover.

Other changes to the 2012 Cadillac CTS include a Touring package that offers dark finish for the grille, larger wheels and tires, metal pedals, dark wood interior trim and a suede-covered wheel and shifter. The Touring package is available with the 3.0-liter and 3.6-liter V6 engines.

Additionally, the CTS sedan and wagon get chrome door handles with the Touring package. Cars with the 3.6-liter V6 will have 19-inch polished wheels and Recaro 14-way adjustable performance seats. The 3.0-liter version will have 18-inch wheels with a pearl-nickel finish.

The CTS also gets slight changes to its grille and the addition of Bluetooth technology. Blind-zone alert technology is available on the CTS coupe.

Prices for the 2012 Cadillac CTS line will be announced late this summer.

By Michelle Koueiter