Cadillac CT5-V/Blackwing

 

The CT5 is Cadillac's current mid-size sedan, and the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing are its performance-focused versions. Cadillac debuted the CT5 for the 2020 model year to replace the CTS and follow a new nomenclature for nearly all of its models, with the V model following the standard model for 2021 and the more hardcore V Blackwing for 2022. The V-Series models are undoubtedly the most exciting of all CT5s, and although the V and V Blackwing are quite similar, there are stark differences between the two performance versions of the CT5. 

First, an overview of the CT5-V. The V is basically the equivalent to the S version of Audi models, Mercedes-AMG 43/53 models, and BMW M models with two or more digits after the M designation (i.e. M550i, X7 M50i). In other words, it is the entry-level performance model right below the top-of-the-line, true performance model. Powering the CT5-V is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 368 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque paired to a 10-speed automatic gearbox. It launches from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and tops out at 156 mph. The CT5 features an improved interior design and interface but in some ways doesn't perform as well as the CTS that it replaces. It features a spacious cabin with the latest tech, such as Cadillac's semi-autonomous Super Cruise system. The CT5's cabin is also crafted in leather with wood and aluminum trim pieces but uses cheap black plastic in some areas as well.

Now onto the more extreme CT5-V Blackwing. The Blackwing is powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 producing 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque paired to either a 6-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic. It makes the dash from zero to 60 mph 3.4 seconds and is capable of a top speed of over 200 mph. Besides the large V8 and significant increase in performance, the CT5-V Blackwing adds magnetorheological dampers for better handling, more aggressive carbon fiber front, side, and rear splitters, side vents, and bigger wheels and brakes to further differentiate it from other CT5 trims. The CT5-V Blackwing will also be the last of its kind, as GM indicated that performance cars like this will be  fully electric after its production run ends. 

Pricing starts at around $50,000 for the CT5-V and around $90,000 for the CT5-V Blackwing. As for the examples featured in this post, my local Cadillac dealer had two CT5-V Blackwings and one CT5-V during my most recent visit there two months ago. The V Blackwings were especially the main attraction leading me to go out of my way to see them up close. Overall, the Cadillac CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing are great sport and performance sedans, especially the V Blackwing. However, although the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing are solid and cool vehicles, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S still reigns supreme among super sedans.

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