Lingenfelter Delivers 700hp Upgrade for Cadillac CTS-V
Lingenfelter Performance Engineering offers a factory-backed package to take the Cadillac CTS-V’s supercharged V8 from 556hp to over 700hp, including a two-year warranty.
Lingenfelter Performance Engineering is a well-established name in American tuning, known for extracting substantial power gains from high-performance vehicles. In early 2011, the company introduced a performance package for the Cadillac CTS-V, targeting drivers who found the standard 556 horsepower from the 6.2-litre supercharged LSA V8 insufficient. This package, priced at $11,245, was designed to push the CTS-V’s output to over 700 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful four-door saloons on the market at the time.
Overview of the Lingenfelter Performance Package
What the Lingenfelter Package Includes
The Lingenfelter upgrade process begins with the removal of the CTS-V’s engine at their facility. The package involves several significant modifications aimed at improving both airflow and fuel delivery, as well as recalibrating the engine management to handle the increased performance. Each component is selected to work together as a complete system, ensuring reliability and drivability even with the substantial power increase.
- Ported and polished LSA V8 cylinder heads to enhance airflow
- Competition Cams GT9 camshaft and upgraded valve springs for improved valve control
- 2.55-inch-diameter steel supercharger drive pulley to raise boost pressure
- High-flow fuel injectors to supply additional fuel for the increased air volume
- Custom engine control module (ECM) tuning, with dyno testing to ensure reliability and smooth power delivery
The combination of these mechanical upgrades and precise ECM calibration is what allows the CTS-V to achieve its 700+ horsepower figure. Lingenfelter’s approach involves not only increasing peak output, but also maintaining the car’s everyday usability, which is a key consideration for many owners of high-performance saloons.
Warranty and Customer Support
One of the standout features of the Lingenfelter package is the inclusion of a two-year, 24,000-mile warranty. This is relatively uncommon among aftermarket performance upgrades, which often void the factory warranty and leave owners to cover any resulting issues. Lingenfelter’s warranty covers all aspects of the upgrade, from the internal engine work to the custom tuning, providing buyers with added peace of mind. This level of support reflects the company’s confidence in the durability of its modifications and its commitment to customer satisfaction.
Performance Gains and Market Position
The Lingenfelter package increases the CTS-V’s output by more than 25% compared to the standard model. This power boost places the modified CTS-V in the same league as contemporary supercars from Lamborghini and Ferrari, yet it retains the practicality, comfort, and space of a four-door saloon. With over 700 horsepower, the CTS-V becomes capable of straight-line acceleration that rivals far more expensive and exotic vehicles, while maintaining its everyday usability.
In 2011, the Cadillac CTS-V was already considered one of the most powerful and well-rounded performance saloons available. Lingenfelter’s package elevated it further, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted even more power without sacrificing reliability or comfort. The price of $11,245 for the conversion, not including the cost of the base car, made it a relatively accessible way to achieve supercar-level performance.
Who Is the Lingenfelter CTS-V Package For?
This performance package is aimed at a specific type of buyer: those who desire extreme performance from their luxury saloon, but are not interested in bespoke, one-off modifications that may compromise reliability or support. Lingenfelter’s reputation and the inclusion of a warranty make the package especially attractive to owners who want to maximise their car’s potential while retaining the assurance of professional engineering and aftersales backing.
The package is particularly suited to enthusiasts who prioritise straight-line acceleration and power, whether for track use, drag racing, or simply for the enjoyment of having one of the fastest saloons on the road. At the same time, the upgrades are engineered to maintain the CTS-V’s original comfort and usability, making it a practical choice for daily driving as well as spirited performance.
Summary
The Lingenfelter performance package for the Cadillac CTS-V represents a comprehensive and well-supported route to supercar-level power in a luxury saloon. With a blend of proven hardware, expert tuning, and warranty coverage, it stands out in the world of aftermarket upgrades. For those seeking more than the already impressive performance of the standard CTS-V, Lingenfelter’s package offers a compelling option that balances extreme power with everyday usability and peace of mind.
