We'd argue that Cadillac's 'Art & Science' design dictum lends the 2008 CTS sedan a progressive and edgy look. But for customers who find it not edgy enough, D3 Cadillac, a Caddy-tuning firm, has the answer with a new body kit.
While D3 sells each body part individually, the majority of the CTS's new look comes from combining new front and rear bumpers with modified side skirts. The front fascia now sports a more angular profile, with a grille opening that dwarfs that of the base CTS. D3 also adds additional air intakes at the sides of the bumper, which can be converted into functional brake cooling ducts with an optional kit.
Similar openings (and ducts) are found on the side skirts, which help transition the eye to the modified rear bumper. D3 has drastically modified the rear valance, adding an angular diffuser that's just as aggressive as the front lip. Dual exhausts exit in the center of the diffuser, terminating with rhombus-shaped tips.
Although D3 offers other parts for the CTS, including roof and decklid spoilers, a mesh grille insert and modified side vents, we'd argue the ground effects - coupled with a lowered ride height - do the most for changing the car's looks. Pricing for the front and rear parts run at $1050 and $700, respectively, while a pair of side skirts cost $500.
For more information, visit D3's website at www.d3cadillac.com