Cadillac has revealed its CT5-V Blackwing, a high-performance sedan engineered to directly challenge the BMW M5 in the upper echelons of the market. This flagship variant utilizes a heavily modified version of GM’s supercharged 6.2-litre LT4 V8 engine, reviving the “Blackwing” nameplate for a new generation of buyers. The car sits above the standard V models, which previously occupied the top spot in the lineup but were notably less potent than their direct European rivals.
Motorists familiar with the brand’s history will recognize the name, though the technology has shifted since its last use. The original Blackwing designation was attached to a controversial 4.2-litre twin-turbocharged hot-V V8 that was discontinued. Cadillac chose to revive the moniker for this current model using the proven 6.2-litre architecture found elsewhere in the GM range. Engineers updated the block with a higher-flow intake system and a new exhaust setup to extract more power from the displacement.
The result is a significant output increase, reaching 659bhp and 659lb ft of torque. This figure marks a jump of roughly 30bhp over the previous CTS-V, securing the title as the most powerful production vehicle the company has ever built. Power delivery is routed exclusively to the rear wheels via an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The documentation indicates the CT5-V can accelerate from zero to 60mph in 3.7 seconds, which is slightly quicker than the all-wheel-drive BMW M5 Competition. It is also capable of reaching speeds exceeding 200mph, a figure that even the more expensive M5 CS is limited to.
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Specs and Suspension
While European rivals often prioritize automatic transmissions in their top-tier sedans, Cadillac has retained a standard six-speed manual gearbox for the Blackwing. This manual unit includes electronic rev-matching and a flat-upshift function for smoother shifts. A ten-speed torque-converter automatic remains an optional alternative for drivers who prefer not to row their own gears.
The chassis has been substantially stiffened to handle the additional power. Cadillac increased spring rates and replaced the rear subframe bushings with stiffer alternatives. The Magnetic Ride Control dampers were also retuned to maintain composure during high-speed cornering. Stopping power is provided by large brake rotors measuring 398mm at the front and 373mm at the rear, clamped by six-piston Brembo calipers up front and four-piston units at the rear. Carbon ceramic brake discs are available as an option to reduce unsprung weight. Standard fitments include bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres in 275 front and 305 rear widths.
On the exterior, the vehicle features larger front openings for improved radiator and brake cooling. The fascia includes various carbon-fibre trims. One carbon-fibre package is fully functional and was tested in a wind tunnel to ensure it reduces lift compared to the standard car. The cabin mirrors the exterior upgrades, swapping out standard trim for carbon fibre and sports seats while narrowing the available color palette. Its 12-inch digital instrument cluster is fully customisable and can display acceleration times and G-force data.
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Alongside the sedan, Cadillac revealed the CT4-V Blackwing. This smaller model utilizes an updated 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine. It produces 466bhp and 455lb ft of torque, a figure that is marginally lower than the BMW M3 Competition and Mercedes-AMG C63 S. The CT4-V claims a 0-60mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 189mph. It is notable that a manufacturer offering a manual transmission in a vehicle capable of exceeding 200mph often pairs it with rear-wheel drive, a configuration that emphasizes driver engagement over the all-wheel traction statistics common in this segment.
Pricing and Exports
As is typical for American performance sedans, both models are priced more competitively than their German counterparts in the United States. The CT5-V Blackwing has a starting price of $84,990, equivalent to roughly $65,000. The CT4-V Blackwing starts from just under $60,000. Unfortunately, North American performance fans in the United Kingdom will not see these cars officially on dealer lots. However, importers might still make them available through private channels, provided the customer can handle the complex importation process and duty regulations.
Fans abroad may still find a way to purchase these vehicles.
