It's easy to think of the new Cadillac CTS-V, unveiled last month, only in terms of numbers. One number specifically that is: 640. It's an impressive power figure, which comes thanks to the engine which the CTS-V shares with the Corvette Z06, and isn't detuned or anything. The 6.2-liter comes with a 1.7-liter supercharger that's more compact and efficient than the units found in the previous CTS-V. This makes it more rev happy and better at producing power at lower rpms.

The engine is more powerful than the comparable units from German manufacturers, and it will take the CTS-V to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. But as we said, it isn't all about horsepower. The aerodynamics of the car have been redesigned, and at least in the form the car was in that we saw in Detroit, it was very much flaunting that all of these aero bits were carbon fiber. Matte-finish carbon fiber also features prominently in the cabin, where Recaro seats add to the general sporty atmosphere of the car. This is not a small car, which makes the speed all the more impressive. We can't wait for it to hit dealerships.