The new Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing and CT4-V Blackwing have been unleashed, armed with formidable power under the hood to go toe-to-toe with European heavyweights like the BMW M5 and M3. While these beasts won’t roar onto UK roads, their pricing in the US undercuts their European counterparts, making them compelling choices for American performance enthusiasts.
Power and Performance: A Deep Dive
The CT5-V Blackwing’s heart is a modified version of the old supercharged 6.2-litre LT4 V8, now pumping out 659bhp and 659lb ft of torque. This output was achieved through updates including a higher-flow intake, new exhaust system, and an ECU tune. This is an increase of around 30bhp over the previous CTS-V and makes it the most powerful production Cadillac to date. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, helping the CT5-V reach the 60mph in 3.7sec, four tenths down on the all-wheel drive M5 Competition. It’s also quoted to top out above 200mph, with even the more expensive M5 CS peaking at a limited 189mph.
The CT4-V Blackwing, while slightly less potent than its sibling, is no slouch. Its 466bhp twin-turbo 3.6-litre V6 matches the output of the BMW M3 Competition and Mercedes-AMG C63 S. With 455lb ft of torque on tap, it accelerates from 0-60mph in just 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 189mph. This means it’s not just keeping up with the Europeans, but setting its own pace.
Chassis and Styling: The Devil is in the Details
Both Blackwing models have been thoroughly reworked to handle their newfound power. Cadillac has Increased spring rates, stiffened suspension bushings in the rear subframe and tweaked its Magnetic Ride Control dampers to provide a more planted, responsive ride. The CT5-V Blackwing comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, featuring both rev-matching and flat-upshift functions for smooth, engaging shifts. The CT4-V Blackwing offers a ten-speed torque-converter automatic, providing swift, seamless gear changes.
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Behind its standard 19-inch forged aluminium wheels are 398mm front and 373mm rear brake discs, with six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo calipers providing the stopping power. Carbon ceramic items are also available at a cost, reducing unsprung mass. Bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres are also fitted as standard, 275-section front and 305-section rear in width.
Enlarged front openings allow for more airflow to the radiators and brakes, offset with the usual collection of carbonfibre exterior trinkets. A further carbonfibre package is said to be fully functional and has been tested in a wind tunnel to ensure it provides a reduction in lift over the standard car. The CT5-V’s interior is largely the same as standard models, save for the requisite carbonfibre trim, sports seats and a reduced interior colour palette. Its 12-inch digital instrument cluster is also fully customisable and can display the likes of acceleration times and G-force data.
Pricing and Availability: A Performance Bargain
Priced at $84,990 (around £65,000) for the CT5-V Blackwing and just under $60,000 (around £45,000) for the CT4-V Blackwing, these cars offer serious performance at a price that undercuts their European rivals in the US. While neither is officially bound for UK shores, their absence leaves a gaping void in the market for high-performance sedans that can truly challenge the Europeans on their home turf.
Although these powerful machines won’t grace UK roads through official channels, import options exist for those willing to handle the complexities of international vehicle registration. With the right importer and a healthy budget for taxes and duties, a select few might make their way onto British roads, offering an tantalizing alternative to the more established European performance saloons.
