2014 Cadillac CTS-V With Matte Satin Grey Wrap and Black Niche Essen Wheels
Today, we’re stepping into the growling heart of the American car scene to inspect a ride that is the synonymous to both performance and elegance – a machine that is as subtle as it is aggressive – a 2014 Cadillac CTS-V Gen 2, owned and modified by Kevin Sparks.
Wrapped in stunning 3M Satin Grey wrap, this sleek predator doesn’t scream for attention, it just demands it, quietly. Enhanced with subtle exterior touches, this unassuming CTS-V makes the term “wolf in sheep’s clothing” sound like an understatement.
About the 2nd Generation CTS-V
Let’s zoom out for a hot minute here, shall we? The 2nd generations Cadillac CTS-V, especially the 2014 model we’re talking about today, is a compelling package that blends luxury, utility, and some serious American muscle. It’s a family sedan that’s had a swig of the power potion, making it a darling of the muscle car faithful, performance enthusiasts, and yes, the custom car culture.
Under the hood of a stock CTS-V, you’d find an LSA V8, supercharged to produce a stonking 556 horsepower, mated to a six-speed manual transmission – a pure, unfiltered connection to the rear wheels. Now, imagine taking that power and refinement and then sprinkling some serious aftermarket magic over it. That’s exactly what Kevin did with his CTS-V.
The Cadillac CTS-V is more than just a car. It’s a statement of purpose for gearheads who appreciate the good old V8s, but don’t want to compromise on creature comforts and two extra doors for the passengers of the 2nd row. This combination of power, luxury, and versatility has earned it a special place in the heart of the American car scene.
Performance
Kevin’s CTS-V is far from stock, with a pretty long list of modifications aimed at extracting every bit of performance from that supercharged V8. Kicking things off is a Corsa Cold Air Intake, SDP Test Pipes, and a Griptech 2.40 Upper Pulley, all coming together to help the beast breathe better. An upgraded 100mm Idler Pulley and a Gates Green Belt further ensure the supercharger is singing at its finest.
“Kevin’s CTS-V is far from stock, with a pretty long list of modifications aimed at extracting every bit of performance from that supercharged V8”.
In the heart of the beast, ID850x Injectors and Tr7ix Spark Plugs ensure every drop of fuel counts, while an AEM Wideband and Aeroforce gauge help Kevin monitor all the vitals. With this sort of kit, we’re talking about a solid 600 wheel horsepower, enough to light up the tires faster than a grease fire on a barbeque.
Suspension
To handle that newfound power, Kevin’s CTS-V got some suspension love as well. Lowered on Eibach Sedan springs, this machine not only hugs the asphalt, but it also presents an imposing, ground-hugging stance.
Wheels / Tires
20×9 and 20×10 Niche Essen wheels are wrapped in 255/35/20 front and 295/30/20 rear Kumho PS91 tires. These tires give this ride the grip it needs to translate all that power into forward momentum. Because, as they say in the muscle car world, power is nothing without control.
Exterior Modifications
As for the exterior, Kevin went with a ‘less is more’ approach. The 3M Satin Grey wrap the beast in a stealthy skin, while a front lip, a rear lip spoiler, and an Ebay Universal rear diffuser add a hint of aggression to the overall aesthetics. The factory chrome bits were replaced with OEM Black Chrome grills, lending to the car’s stealthy appeal. Custom headlights by @apexretrofit add a touch of uniqueness, and smoked taillights ensure the rear view is just as intimidating as the front.
Specs & Mods:
Performance
- Corsa Cold Air Intake
- SDP Test Pipes
- Griptech 2.40 Upper Pulley
- 100mm Idler Pulley
- Gates Green Belt
- ID850x Injectors
- Solid Isolator
- Muffler Delete
- Reinforced HX Brick
- ZZP Dual pass low mount HX
- Tr7ix Spark Plugs
- Aem Wideband and Aeroforce gauge
- Tuned by Derek Dunbar at @DDTech
- 600whp, never dynoed
Exterior/Suspension
- Wrapped 3M Satin Grey
- Lowered
- Eibach Sedan springs
- Custom Headlights done by @apexretrofit
- Front Lip
- Rear lip spoiler
- Ebay Universal rear diffuser
- Interior wood trim wrapped in forged carbon wrap
- Smoked taillights
- Chrome deleted,
- OEM Black Chrome grills
Wheels / Tires
- 20×9 and 20×10 Niche Essen wheels
- 255/35 and 295/30 Kumho PS91 tires
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kevin Sparks’s 2014 Cadillac CTS-V is a masterclass in balance. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and raw power, peppered with tasteful modifications. It shows you don’t need to go overboard with neon and loud paint to make a statement. It’s a ride that commands respect, not by shouting, but by the refined rumble of its exhaust, the sleekness of its exterior, and the aura of understated menace it carries.
Watch the progress and find out more about this Cadillac CTS-V 2nd project by visiting the Instagram profile of the owner: @that_sparks_kid!
Stay tuned for more project reviews on MuscleCarDNA.com – Follow us on social media, and share this write-up if you enjoyed reading it!
Automotive journalist and technical writer with more than 10 years of experience. Specialized in aftermarket parts and performance modifications. Loves everything on four wheels and obsessed with modified muscle cars, both classic and modern.