Luxury automakers use performance brands to sprinkle excitement over their lineup. Think AMG, M, V and RS. These hyperperformers accelerate with powerful engines boasting upward of 550 horsepower. Glowing under their halos are less-potent models like Cadillac VSport.
“We wanted to keep V-Series pure to its mission of being track-capable and high performance,” said Hampden Tener, Cadillac product director. “But we have Nurburgring-tested hardware like the twin-turbo V-6 and Magnetic Ride Control within the line. VSport gives us a chance to explore these vehicles without diluting V-Series.”
Take the Cadillac CTS. VSport editions employ 420 horsepower twin-turbo V-6 engines. The track-tested CTS-V enlists a 556-horsepower supercharged V-8. Less potent models employ turbo-four and V-6 engines, providing options for customers. Cadillac’s competitors get it. Some examples:
Audi sells the A5 coupe with a turbo-four, the S5 with 333 horsepower turbo-six and the RS5 with a 450-horsepower V-8. An S-Line style package is available on A5. Similarly, BMW sells the 300-horsepower X6, 555-horsepower X6 M and style-enhancing M Performance Package flaunting 20-inch wheels.
Lexus offers F Sport trim across the line, but the IS F trades the base sedan’s V-6 for a 416-horsepower V-8. Putting a halo on it, Lexus developed the 2015 RC F coupe with a 450-horsepower V-8. To counter, Infiniti plans a high-horsepower version of the Q50 sedan.
Mercedes’ renowned AMG line boasts hand-built engines in cars ranging from the 355-horsepower CLA45 to the 621-horsepower V-12-powered S65. Defying reason, Mercedes sells the brick-square G63 SUV, which doesn’t appear track-worthy but has the AMG engine. Cadillac offers an Escalade VSport.
“VSport gives us brand definition that can be used across the line,” Tener said.
It’s a delicate balance to provide choices without diluting hard-earned credentials, but a flash of halo seldom hurts. While automakers fortify their track credentials, there’s room to populate the middle range with enhanced performance.
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