Since it’s inception in 1902 and subsequent inclusion by the General in 1909, Cadillac has been at the forefront of American automotive design, power and technology. Soon after eclipsing a century in business in 2004, the luxury carmaker began a new era, one dominated by its ultra high-performance V-Series models.

Shattering what had unfortunately become a stodgy reputation, Corvette power and performance was the main ingredient in the V car’s repertoire. The first iteration built from 2004-’07 on GMs Sigma platform was initially fitted with the C5 ZO6’s 5.7-liter LS6 motor with 400-hp. For 2006-’07, the new C6’s 6.0-liter LS2 making the same power became standard issue with both engines wielded by a Tremec T56 six-speed, only.

For 2009-’15, the second coming of the CTS-V upped the ante considerably, now powered by a supercharged 6.2L LSA V8. Similar to the C6 ZR1s LS9, but with a smaller blower and devoid of titanium internals, the new Sigma II-platformed V-Caddy put down 556-hp through its magnetic ride control shocks and could now be ordered with a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. For model year 2011, a CTS-V coupe and get this, a station wagon, followed-suit, creating Caddy’s trifecta of V-power. If the first CTS-Vs didn’t raise eyebrows in the Benz and Bimmer camps, its visceral encore certainly garnered “Achtung”.

Enter 2016 and Cadillac unleashes its third version of the CTS-V “Super Sedan”- the most powerful Caddy ever built. Now sporting a slightly detuned 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V8 engine, shared with the C7 Z06 and later sixth-gen Camaro ZL1, the new mill pumps out 640-hp/630-lb-ft and is capable of launching the over two-ton Caddy to 60-mph in under 4-seconds and through the traps in 12-flat on it’s way to 200-mph. Few would argue, that although the war with Germany’s best still continues, Cadillac’s new V weapon has definitely turned the tide, perhaps indefinitely.

Now, in commemoration and celebration of 115 years of production, Cadillac is offering a limited run of 2018 Glacier Metallic Edition (GME) CTS-Vs, just one for each year of Caddy’s existence. Deriving it’s name from the 115-unit exclusive exterior hue, which Cadillac describes as a ”smoky, light gray color’ that’s just the icing on a delicious cake.”

On top of the CTS-Vs array of standard equipment, additional exterior details include specific 19-inch V-series forged alloy wheels with polished spokes and Midnight Silver-painted inner pockets, unique, dark red-colored Brembo brake calipers and illuminated door handles. All GME CTS-Vs also receive the Carbon Fiber Package as standard, which includes a front splitter, rear diffuser and hood vent made from the lightweight race-derived material.

Inside the cockpit, luxury and technology abound with just about all optional CTS-V features part of the GME package. This includes black RECARO performance seats, the UltraView sunroof, Performance Data and Video Recorder and Caddy’s groundbreaking Rear Camera Mirror and next-gen (CUE) Cadillac User Experience infotainment system. Finishing off the included Luxury Package goodies are tri-zone climate controls, rear side window sunshades, split-folding rear seats with arm rests and heated outboard positions and a110-volt AC outlet.

MSRP for the Glacier Metallic Edition CTS-V is $103,885, roughly $17k more than a regular CTS-V. Taking into consideration the multitude of equipment, one of 115-made rarity, the exclusive color and the fact that it’s a darn CTS-V- Cadillac’s ultimate machine is an awesome and fitting birthday gift.