The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a 668bhp supercharged V8 with a manual transmission, a winning formula that takes on the BMW M5 Competition. The CT5-V Blackwing features a 6.2-litre supercharged V8 producing 668bhp at 6500rpm and 659lb ft at 3600rpm, with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and an excellent e-diff.
First impressions of the Blackwing do not concern its full performance potential, but its design and features are enough to wipe away travel weariness and send a welcome shot of adrenaline. The CT5-V Blackwing seems exotic, with a cabin that’s easily on a par with an M3 and not too far off an M5 CS.
Design and Features
The Blackwing’s cabin features carbon fibre trim, a small and round steering wheel, and a short, simple gearlever with a 3D printed shift pattern trim, all tightly bound in alcantara. The infotainment system has an unobtrusive quality that’s also something of a throwback, with Apple CarPlay that works seamlessly.
The hand-made 6.2-litre supercharged ‘LT4’ V8 does not dominate the character of the car, but it does suffuse every fibre of what makes the Blackwing special. On start-up, you get an instant read on the character of the LT4, which is focussed and tightly wound rather than a great belch of energy pouring forth.
Performance
On the wide concrete freeways, the CT5-V sweeps along with a lovely gait, with magnetic dampers that work superbly to keep the body flat and under tight control. The six-speed ‘box is sweet, with long gearing that’s no problem at all when you have 659lb ft and murderous power in the mid-range.
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The Blackwing features rev-matching and ‘No-Lift Shift’, making it a joy to drive on the track. Equipped with optional ceramic brakes and carbon fibre aero goodies, the Blackwing shows great endurance, extremely impressive body control, and a riotous balance on circuit.
In Track mode and with all driver aids removed, the Blackwing is outrageously adjustable, with a pointy and agile feel that’s rare in supersaloons of this size and mass. The Cadillac attacks corner entry with gusto, and you have to be right on your A-game to keep the rear under control as the front cuts hard to each apex.
Handling and Technology
Cadillac’s Performance Traction Management is excellent, allowing you to toggle traction control assistance up and down in a similar fashion to the new BMW M3. The Blackwing’s steering is light, clean, and responsive, acting on that positive front-end to great effect.
The car takes attitude in perfect synchronicity with the turn-in phase, with the rear adopting the perfect angle of attack. With PTM still active but slackened off, that angle remains as you start to fire torque at the rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, allowing you to open the steering and carry tremendous speed.
This is the Blackwing’s preferred stance: rear tyres overspeeding ever so slightly, very little steering angle, and the dampers and hollow anti-roll bars doing a fantastic job of keeping the car flat but smothering kerb strikes with finesse. The Cadillac is enormous fun, deeply involving, and so keen to cut clean lines that it’s a bit of a shock.
It is clear that the CT5-V Blackwing is a force to be reckoned with as it takes on the likes of the BMW M3 Competition and M5 CS. With its powerful V8, agile handling, and advanced technology, the Blackwing is a supersaloon that’s sure to excite. Whether it can stand toe-to-toe with its German rivals on UK roads remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: the CT5-V Blackwing is a whole lot of fun.
Related Post: Cadillac Unveils CT5-V Blackwing
The Blackwing’s performance is a result of its well-designed features and technologies. They make the car a joy to drive, both on the track and on regular roads.
Cadillac has done an excellent job in creating a car that can compete with the best in its class. The CT5-V Blackwing is a sign of the company’s engineering and design capabilities.
As the CT5-V Blackwing continues to make its mark in the automotive world, it will be interesting to see how it compares to its competitors in the long run. For now, it’s clear that the Blackwing is a car that’s worth paying attention to.
The CT5-V Blackwing’s features and performance make it a great option for those looking for a high-performance car. It has the power, handling, and technology to make it a top choice in its class.
In conclusion, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a car that’s sure to impress. With its powerful engine, agile handling, and advanced technology, it’s a supersaloon that’s worth considering for anyone looking for a high-performance car.
