After months of teasing, Cadillac’s new Blackwing high-performance models are finally here…and they’re even more powerful than expected.
Like the cars from BMW’s M division or the Mercedes-Benz AMG shop, the Blackwings start with existing Cadillac sedans but with upgrades to make them significantly faster, and pricier.
The CT4-V Blackwing, a performance-enhanced version of the Cadillac CT4, is powered by a 3.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine making 472 horsepower. It is available with a 10-speed automatic transmission, or a 6-speed, dual-clutch manual with rev-matching and no-lift shifting. Power goes to the rear wheels, through an electronic limited-slip differential. The differential and transmission get separate oil coolers. Cadillac says the CT4-V’s top speed is 189 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds in the automatic model.
The CT5-V Blackwing is based on the larger CT5 sedan. Power comes from a 6.2-liter V8 making 668 horsepower. The CT5-V uses the same transmissions and differential. Cadillac claims a top speed of 200 mph for the CT5-V Blackwing, with a 0-to-60 time of 3.7 seconds with the 10-speed automatic transmission.
Upgraded Suspensions
Both cars use stiffer swings and sway bars than their conventional cousins, and the latest version of Cadillac’s magnetically-adjustable suspension. The pair sit on forged aluminum wheels, with wider tires in the rear for added traction. Both boast enormous brake rotors. The CT4-V employs discs that are 15 inches up front and 13.4 in the rear, while CT5-V uses 15.7-inch ones up front and 14.7-inch in the rear.
Outside, the two are tastefully more aggressive versions of the base models. Larger grilles and functional fender vents improve airflow. An optional carbon-fiber aero package squishes each down to the roadway for better traction, and on the CT5-V, includes removable canards. Inside, carbon fiber accents, sport seats, and plate on the steering wheel bearing the car’s production number set them apart.
Cadillac plans to build just 250 of each. They can be reserved today with a $1,000 deposit. The CT4-V Blackwing starts at $59,990, while the CT5-V Blackwing begins at $84,990.
