Jump to content
Get the Cheers & Gears App! ×
Create New...
  • William Maley
    William Maley

    2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 Blackwing Bring A Performance Edge

      Missing the hot V models? Here are their replacements.

    After months of rumors and spy photos, Cadillac finally spilled the beans on their new high-performance CT4 and CT5 Blackwing. These new models are planned to give German rivals a bruising when they start arriving at dealers later this summer. Here is what we know.

    CT4 Blackwing

    The smaller of the two Blackwing models starts with a twin-turbo 3.6L V6 engine with 472 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque. To achieve this power, Cadillac upgraded the various internals with titanium connecting rods and a revised crankshaft. Power is routed to the rear-wheels by either a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic. Performance figures are impressive with a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds (automatic transmission) and a top speed of 189 mph.

    In terms of handling, the CT4 Blackwing features an electronic limited-slip rear differential and latest version of Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 - Cadillac claims the latter is the quickest-reacting suspension in the world. A set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires keep the vehicle glued to the road, while optional optional carbon ceramic brakes bring it to a quick stop.

    Visually, the CT4 Blackwing uses a new grille with larger openings to gobble up more air; functional fender vents, front splitter, and a rear spoiler. A carbon fiber package that claims to reduce aerodynamic lift by 214 percent is an option.

    CT5 Blackwing

    For those who want something a bit more mad can direct their attention to the CT5 Blackwing. Under its hood lies a massaged 6.2L supercharged V8 engine with 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque. Again, power is routed to the rear-wheels via a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic. 0-60 mph takes 3.7 seconds (automatic transmission) and can cruise towards 200-plus mph. 

    What does this massaged V8 engine have? For starters. there's a larger supercharger (1.7-liters), aluminum cylinder heads, titanium intake valves, and improved airflow. 

    Like the CT4, the CT5 Blackwing gets Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and electronic limited-slip rear differential. A set of forged 19-inch wheels exclusive to the Blackwing come wrapped in a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. 

    Outside, a new grille with larger openings to allow for more air, front splitter, and rear spoiler are the key changes to note. A carbon fiber package is optional.

    How Much?

    The CT4 Blackwing will set you back $59,990, and the larger CT5 Blackwing will cost $84,990. Both prices include a $995 destination charge. You can head down to your nearest Cadillac dealer to place a pre-order for either model right now.

    Source: Cadillac

    V-Series Blackwing: Ultimate Track Capability, Zero Compromise

    • The 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing, two of the most powerful Cadillacs ever, raise the bar on performance

    The 2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing and CT4-V Blackwing represent the pinnacle of Cadillac performance and craftsmanship, leveraging championship-winning racing heritage to create the most track-capable Cadillacs ever, while continuing to set new standards for luxury and comfort.

    Leveraging a Cadillac racing history that began in 1949 and has seen sustained success over the last two decades, the V-Series Blackwing models were developed with driver engagement and performance at the top of mind.

    “V-Series Blackwing stands for the very highest level of execution from Cadillac and offers a distinctly American vision of performance: incredible power and luxurious craftsmanship, with absolutely zero compromise,” said Brandon Vivian, executive chief engineer, Cadillac. “We looked to our championship-winning racing heritage and brought an uncompromising eye for detail to create two cars that elevate the V-Series experience.”

    V-Series Blackwing vehicles build on the already excellent performance dynamics of the CT5-V and CT4-V to create the top tier of the Cadillac sedan lineup.

    Highlights include:

    • Evolutions of the track-ready Cadillac 6.2L Supercharged V8 in the CT5-V Blackwing and 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 in the CT4-V Blackwing
    • Upgraded TREMEC six-speed manual transmission standard
    • Available 10-speed automatic transmission
    • Electronic Limited Slip Rear Differential enhanced to reduce mass and improve on-track reliability
    • Advanced suspension refinements providing greater body control and a more agile feel
    • Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, the world’s fastest reacting suspension technology, sharpening the balance between daily-driving comfort and high-performance track capability
    • Unique structural enhancements improving steering response and handling on the track
    • Cadillac’s largest ever factory-installed brakes, available on the CT5-V Blackwing
    • Extensive validation including 12-hour and 24-hour track testing
    • Customizable integrated digital gauge cluster with Custom Launch Control and Performance Traction Management settings

    Liberating performance
    The CT5-V Blackwing uses an upgraded 6.2L supercharged V8 that, thanks to a higher flow air-intake and revised exhaust system, is rated at 668 horsepower (498 kW) and 659 lb-ft of torque (893 Nm), making it the most powerful production Cadillac ever. Each engine is hand-built at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly facility in Kentucky and features a signed engine builder’s plate.

    The CT4-V Blackwing sports an evolution of the Cadillac 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 that features revised control system software and an improved air intake system to create 472 horsepower (352 kW) and 445 lb-ft of torque (603 Nm). The turbos’ low-inertia (titanium-aluminide) turbine wheels enable more precise and responsive application of torque throughout the rev range.

    Highlighted features and output:

    • CT5-V Blackwing: 6.2L Supercharged V8 - 668 hp, 659 lb-ft of torque
      • GM-estimated top track speed: over 200 mph
      • GM-estimated 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds (automatic transmission)
      • Most powerful Cadillac ever
      • Air intake airflow is improved by 46 percent vs. the CTS-V
      • Compact, high-output 1.7L four-lobe Eaton supercharger with small-diameter rotors that enable boost to be generated earlier in the rpm band for instantaneous response
      • Rotocast A356T6 aluminum cylinder heads are stronger and handle heat better than conventional aluminum-alloy heads
      • Lightweight titanium intake valves
      • Track-capable wet-sump oiling and vent system with external oil separator and drainback
    • CT4-V Blackwing: 3.6L Twin-Turbo V6 - 472 hp, 445 lb-ft of torque
      • GM-estimated top speed: 189 mph
      • GM-estimated 0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds (automatic transmission)
      • Most powerful and fastest Cadillac in the subcompact class
      • Air intake restriction is improved by 39 percent vs. the ATS-V
      • Turbocharger compressors matched for peak efficiency at peak power for optimal track performance
      • Titanium connecting rods (manual transmission only) and revised crankshaft counterweights reduce main/rod bearing reciprocating loads
      • Re-targeted piston oil squirters, which direct engine oil at the bottoms of the pistons, for improved temperature control
      • The manifold-integrated water-to-air charge cooling system contributes to more immediate torque response
      • Airflow routing volume is reduced by 60 percent when compared to a conventional design that features a remotely mounted heat exchanger

    Track-capable braking systems
    Both V-Series Blackwing models feature advanced high-performance braking systems that have been extensively track and road-tested. The exclusive V-Series Blackwing wheel designs enable an even larger rotor over the previous CTS-V, making the CT5-V Blackwing braking system the largest factory-installed brakes in Cadillac history. Additionally, an available carbon-ceramic brake package for the CT5-V Blackwing, featuring cross-drilled rotors, deliver several benefits including weight savings, durability and heat management.

    Highlighted features:

    • CT4-V Blackwing: 14.96 x 1.34-inch (380 X 34 mm) front rotors and 13.4 x 1.1-inch (340.5 x 28 mm) rear rotors
    • CT5-V Blackwing: 15.67 x 1.42-inch (398 X 36 mm) front rotors and 14.7 x 1.1-inch (373.5 x 28 mm) rear rotors
    • Staggered Brembo® six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers
    • Available on the CT5-V Blackwing, the lightweight carbon-ceramic brake package significantly improves heat management, as well as greater resistance to wear under extreme conditions on the racetrack, while also reducing unsprung mass and rotating mass:
      • 53-pound (24 kg) reduction in unsprung weight
      • 62-pound (28 kg) reduction in rotating mass
    • High-performance copper-free brake linings comply with California law and deliver superior fade resistance with an excellent pedal feel on and off the track
    • Brake systems are integrated to each vehicles’ selectable drive modes, including brake pedal feel. Brake pedal feel can also be assigned within My-Mode and V-Mode

    Manual transmission is standard
    Rare for sport sedans today, a six-speed TREMEC manual transmission is standard on both vehicles. It has been optimized for each V-Series Blackwing vehicle to provide an engaging experience on the track or on the road. Details include:

    • LuK twin-disc clutch for high torque capacity and great pedal feel
    • Active Rev Matching accessible via a console mounted toggle switch to automatically adjust engine speed to match anticipated downshifts
    • No-Lift Shift allowing the driver to shift gears without letting off the gas pedal. In the case of the CT4-V Blackwing, it allows the turbos to remain spooled, resulting in faster lap times
    • Transmission and rear differential cooling – the manual and automatic transmissions use the same track-performance cooling system for greater track performance
    • Clutch and brake pedals positioned for optimal driver ergonomics
    • A physical barrier stop for the clutch pedal rather than a hydraulic master cylinder stop provides greater driver feedback during clutch operation
    • A shorter shifter ratio than previous generations for more precise shifts

    Ten-speed automatic transmission
    The CT5-V Blackwing and CT4-V Blackwing are available with a 10-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. It is tuned to complement the dual-personality experience of each respective model.

    Highlighted features:

    • Tap Shift/Manual Mode allowing the driver to use integrated magnesium paddle shifters to select a gear and hold it until selecting the next gear, up or down
    • Sport Mode providing real-time interpretation of driving conditions, adjusting the transmission to reduce shift busyness and improve performance, while retaining aggressive driving dynamics
    • Twenty-four-hour track testing resulted in several improvements in response to the demands of a high-g track environment, including a unique oil pan design and priority valve changes
    • Unique control systems with performance calibrations tailored for each model
    • Ten forward gears offer the most available transmission speeds in each sedans’ respective segments, helping keep the engines within their optimal rpm bands, while also anticipating the next shifts
    • Dynamic Performance Mode is calibrated specifically for V-Series Blackwing to deliver track focused shift patterns and automatically activates when high-g forces are experienced in Sport or Track mode
    • An auxiliary pump primes the automatic transmission system from the time the vehicle door is opened for improved cold-shift performance.

    Both V-Series Blackwing models also feature an enhanced Electronic Limited Slip Rear Differential. It weighs less and has been optimized for each driving mode and each Performance Traction Management setting.

    Highlighted features:

    • More control of the rear differential compared to traditional open and mechanical limited-slip differentials
    • Enhances road grip by automatically allocating torque to the rear wheel with the most traction during hard cornering — with the capability of sending up to 1,475 lb-ft (2,000 Nm) of locking torque across the axle
    • High-performance differential cooler
    • An aluminum housing replacing the previous generation cast iron housing, reducing mass by more than 22 pounds (10 kg)
    • Exclusive integrated heat exchanger for enhanced cooling

    Advanced suspension systems and strengthened chassis
    V-Series Blackwing combines the fourth generation of Magnetic Ride Control (MR 4.0), with improvements to the front and rear suspension systems. Stiffer spring rates, unique hollow stabilizer bars, higher-rate bushings and more enable a driving experience that isolates the driver from road imperfections, while also providing a precise, engaging connection with the road.

    MR 4.0 highlights:

    • Immense performance envelope that gave Cadillac engineers the freedom to optimize everyday driving and aggressive track performance
    • New accelerometers and an inertial measurement unit that transmit and process changes in road conditions four times faster than the previous generation system
    • Secondary temperature maps that enable engineers to compensate for changes in damper fluid temperature for more consistent performance, even during performance driving
    • Inertial measurement unit that provides more precise measurements of body motion relative to the wheel for more accurate readings under heavy braking, hard cornering and other driving conditions
    • Improved magnetic flux control that creates a more consistent and accurate transition between rebound and compression
    • Improvements to transient body control that allow the vehicle to remain more level while transitioning between corners

    MacPherson strut front suspension:

    • Ride link includes an all-new 100-percent elastomer bushing on the CT4-V Blackwing and a retuned hydro bushing on the CT5-V Blackwing, for improved ride response
    • Handling link has cross-axis ball joints for improved lateral control and quicker steering response

    Five-link independent rear suspension:

    • Lateral link features stiffer bushings for faster response and increased cornering agility
    • Toe link has cross-axis ball joints for increased stability and driver confidence
    • Rear knuckles have increased stiffness for improved braking and better control during cornering
    • Rear cradle mounts have been stiffened for optimum balance between road comfort and track performance

    V-Series Blackwing models are built on Cadillac’s award-winning rear-wheel drive architecture and feature unique structural enhancements including shock tower braces, an underside shear plate and thicker rear cross members to improve chassis rigidity. Along with the unique suspension elements, the stiffer structure enhances steering response, handling and the everyday driving experience.

    All-day performance, on and off the track
    The CT5-V Blackwing and CT4-V Blackwing build on Cadillac’s racing heritage and were developed to be track-capable straight from the factory. That includes an intensive validation program to ensure consistent performance during the most challenging track conditions.

    Validation for both models included:

    • Twenty-four-hour continuous track testing with the available automatic transmission, available carbon fiber aero package, aluminum wheels and available carbon ceramic brake package
    • Twelve-hour continuous track testing with the standard manual transmission, available carbon fiber aero package, aluminum wheels and available carbon ceramic brake package

    Functional aerodynamics, including an available carbon fiber aero package, contribute to the V-Series Blackwing models’ track prowess to support a variety of cooling needs for the cars’ respective engines, transmissions, axles and other supporting systems.

    Additionally, MICHELIN® Pilot Sport 4S tires developed exclusively for the V-Series Blackwing models contribute to their balance of track capability and road comfort. Highlights include:

    • Unique, multiple-compound tread composition:
      • Contact patch composed of three unique tread rubber compounds
      • Racing “R compound” used for the majority of the tread
      • Compounds optimized for wet traction, enhanced street and track durability, as well as rolling resistance
    • The mold shape of the tire has been specifically engineered for Blackwing models to optimize contact with the road
    • Tire sizes:
      • CT5-V Blackwing tire size: 275/35ZR19 (front) and 305/30ZR19 (rear)
      • CT4-V Blackwing tire size: 255/35ZR18 (front) and 275/35ZR18 (rear)

    Both V-Series Blackwing vehicles feature standard forged aluminum alloy wheels with staggered widths, front to rear. These forged wheels are stronger and lighter than conventional cast aluminum.

    Wheel sizes:

    • CT5-V Blackwing: Front – 19 x 10 inches / Rear – 19 x 11 inches
    • CT4-V Blackwing: Front – 18 x 9 inches / Rear – 18 x 9.5 inches

    Coming this summer
    Reservations for both vehicles open on Feb. 1, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. ET on Cadillac.com, with deliveries later this summer. Pricing begins at $59,9901 for the CT4-V Blackwing and $84,9901 for the CT5-V Blackwing.

    User Feedback

    Recommended Comments



    42 minutes ago, USA-1 said:

    After you JUST mentioned the sizes of the CT5, 5 Series and E Class are near identical, but yeah they aren't competitive because the price point, that's ludicrous.

    Yeah, because the antiquated chassis and cheap interior in the Dodge Charger is the same build quality as a Cadillac CT5. LMFAO!! 

     

    The CT5-V and the Sonata have the same dimensions, doesn't mean they are competitors.   Because, price point.  Cadillac has no E-class competitor, neither do Acura or Infiniti or Lexus since killing the GS, although the LS500 is S-class size for E450 money, so maybe that competes.

    CT5 is nicer than a Charger, Dodge interiors are terrible, but my point was just because something has horsepower and size of an M5, doesn't mean it competes with an M5.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    2 hours ago, smk4565 said:

    The CT5-V and the Sonata have the same dimensions, doesn't mean they are competitors.   Because, price point.  Cadillac has no E-class competitor, neither do Acura or Infiniti or Lexus since killing the GS, although the LS500 is S-class size for E450 money, so maybe that competes.

    CT5 is nicer than a Charger, Dodge interiors are terrible, but my point was just because something has horsepower and size of an M5, doesn't mean it competes with an M5.

    Your points are horrible as usual. Because, price point, is right. We aren't talking about a $350k Rolls Royce we're talking about the same class of luxury cars within the usual delta price range, you brought up the cheap Econbox cars and a muscle car that only has the V8 in common.

    Right, it's not just about horsepower and size it's also about fit and finish and quality of all materials especially inside...like the luxury class interiors that Cadillac, BMW and MB have that a Dodge, Kia or Hyundai DO NOT have. 

    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    6 hours ago, USA-1 said:

    Your points are horrible as usual. Because, price point, is right. We aren't talking about a $350k Rolls Royce we're talking about the same class of luxury cars within the usual delta price range, you brought up the cheap Econbox cars and a muscle car that only has the V8 in common.

    Right, it's not just about horsepower and size it's also about fit and finish and quality of all materials especially inside...like the luxury class interiors that Cadillac, BMW and MB have that a Dodge, Kia or Hyundai DO NOT have. 

    The CT5 interior is entry-lux, much like a CLA or Acura TLX.  CT5 isn’t an E-class competitor.

     And I am not saying Cadillac needs an E or S class competitor, sedan sales are shrinking and make more sense to make a mid-size $37k sedan like a Lexus ES or Acura TLX and go where you can get more volume and have $400 a month lease deals.

    • Disagree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    2 hours ago, smk4565 said:

    The CT5 interior is entry-lux, much like a CLA or Acura TLX.  CT5 isn’t an E-class competitor.

     

    This article is about the CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing cars that are very well equipped, loaded in fact, with real carbon fiber inside and out and now you've flipped it again by talking about the base model CT5. Here's a refresher if this article wasn't enough.  https://www.cadillac.com/future-vehicles/ct5-v-blackwing

    The CT5 you say you sat in was probably a base model Luxury trim, often times the auto shows only have what the local dealer has available at the time. The CT4 and CT5 I sat in at the my local auto show were the well equipped Premium Luxury trim, not the base or high end Sport or V Series trims. The CT5 I've driven was a loaded V Series.

    Similar to this $67k example...definitely an E Class competitor. 

    H2X_0ST_1NF_1SF_1SZ_2NF_2ST_4AA_53S_5A7_5CS_5FC_6X1_719_7X1_8X2_9L3_9X2_A2X_A45_A7K_AEF_AER_AF6_AHC_AHE_AHF_AHH_AHP_AJC_AJW_AKE_AKP_AL0_AM9_AQ9_AT8_ATH_AVK_AVN_AVU_AX7_AXG_AXJ_AYG_B4Z_B53_B6A_B7G_B9I_BTV_BYO_C3U_C70_C73_CE1_CJ2_CWM_D52_D75_DEG_DRZ_DXR_E22_E28_EF7_EPH_F46_F55_FE3_FJW_G96_GAZ_HD7_HME_HRD_HS1_IOT_J21_J56_J6F_J77_JF5_JJ2_JM8_K12_K4C_KA1_KB7_KD4_KEM_KI3_KL9_KPA_KRV_KSG_KU9_LAL_LGY_MAH_MCR_MDB_MHS_N06_N08_N38_NB9_NC7_NE8_NK4_NUB_NWM_PB4_PDH_PPW_Q86_QES_R6R_R8R_R9N_RSR_SLM_SSJ_ST1_T4L_T87_T8Z_TDM_TFK_TL3_TQ5_TTW_U2K_U2L_U80_UDV_UE1_UE4_UEU_UFG_UG1_UGC_UGE_UGN_UHX_UJN_UKC_UKG_UKJ_UKK_UMN_UQP_USS_UTR_UTU_UTV_UV2_UV6_UVZ_V76_V8D_VAV_VH9_VHM_VK3_VLI_VRF_VRG_VRH_VRJ_VRK_VRL_VRM_VRN_VRR_VT7_VV4_WMU_XL8_XLC_XVR_Y26_Y43_Y5V_Y5W_Y5X_Y5Y_Y61_Y6F_Y6L_YF5_YM8gmds10.jpg&v=deg01&std=true&country=US

    H2X_0ST_1NF_1SF_1SZ_2NF_2ST_4AA_57M_5A7_5FC_6X1_719_7X1_8X2_9L3_9X2_A2X_A45_A7K_AEF_AER_AF6_AHC_AHE_AHF_AHH_AHP_AJC_AJW_AKE_AKP_AL0_AM9_AQ9_AT8_ATH_AVK_AVN_AVU_AXG_AXJ_AYG_B4Z_B53_B6A_B7G_B9I_BTV_BYO_C70_C73_CE1_CJ2_CWM_D52_D75_DEG_DRZ_DXR_E22_E28_EF7_EPH_F55_FE3_FJW_G96_GAZ_HD7_HME_HRD_HS1_IOT_J21_J56_J6F_J77_JF5_JJ2_JM8_K12_K34_K4C_KA1_KB7_KD4_KEM_KI3_KL9_KPA_KRV_KU9_LAL_LGY_MAH_MCR_MDB_MHS_N38_NB9_NC7_NE8_NK4_NUB_PPW_QBK_R6R_R8R_R9N_RSR_RWL_SLM_ST1_T4L_T87_T8Z_TDM_TFK_TL3_TQ5_TTW_U2K_U2L_U80_UDV_UE1_UE4_UEU_UFG_UG1_UGC_UGE_UHX_UHY_UJN_UKC_UKG_UKJ_UKK_UMN_UQP_USS_UV2_UV6_V76_V8D_VH9_VHM_VLI_VRF_VRG_VRH_VRJ_VRK_VRL_VRM_VRN_VRR_VT7_VV4_VYW_WMU_XL8_XLC_XVR_Y26_Y43_Y5V_Y5W_Y5X_Y6F_Y6L_YF5_YM8gmds10.jpg&v=deg02&std=true&country=US

    0bb1b7b.jpg

     

     

     

    • Agree 3
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    CT5-V Blackwing interior is on par with an A4 or 3-series, or an Acura/Lincoln product.      Cadillac interiors look like a fancier Chevy in the way Acura interiors look like a fancier Honda, nothing special.

    • Haha 1
    • Disagree 3
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    1 hour ago, balthazar said:

    ^ I don’t see that. Interesting viewpoint tho.

    So GM made a car as luxurious as an E63 or M5 but decided to sell it at a $40k discount just because they are nice guys?  They would be idiots to leave money on the table and the one thing GM excels at is bean counting.  

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    What's Mercedes doing leaving $110 grand "on the table" when they claim the Maybach S650 "competes" with the Rolls Royce Ghost ($315K)?? Being "nice" there, or just "bean counting"?

    Do those models in fact NOT compete because of sticker?
     

    Do tell.

    • Agree 4
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    18 minutes ago, smk4565 said:

    So GM made a car as luxurious as an E63 or M5 but decided to sell it at a $40k discount just because they are nice guys?  They would be idiots to leave money on the table and the one thing GM excels at is bean counting.  

    First, as @Drew Dowdellhas stated, it's not quite as large or roomy as those vehicles. Also, if they're built here and not imported, there are less costs associated allowing them to charge less. I know not 40k less, but less, is less. 

    • Agree 2
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    CT5 has a smidge more headroom, and a full inch more legroom up front than a 5-series. Exterior is nearly identical [WB diff: 1.1", OL diff : 2.0"]. BMW has 2 CF more trunk volume and 1.7" more shoulder room. IMO, and for all intents & purposes- they're interchangeable, size-wise. Without question they're in the same size class.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    54 minutes ago, balthazar said:

    What's Mercedes doing leaving $110 grand "on the table" when they claim the Maybach S650 "competes" with the Rolls Royce Ghost ($315K)?? Being "nice" there, or just "bean counting"?

    Do those models in fact NOT compete because of sticker?
     

    Do tell.

    Rolls-Royce is out of Mercedes league.  Maybach trim cars are meant to bridge the gap between a $115k GLS or S-class and a $350,000 Ghost or $500k Phantom.   There was like a $150k price gap between the old S600 and a Ghost with only the Bentley Flying Spur sitting there, easiest decision ever to go into a segment with only 1 competitor.

    • Disagree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    12 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    Numbers lie... even Cadillac numbers.  The CT5 does not feel as roomy inside as a 5-series. 

    All of this aside here's what Cadillac is doing.

    I can get into a CT5-V (not Blackwing) for $47,695. With that I get a 350 HP V6 and a nice leather interior while over at Benz I'm stuck in a C300 with plastic seats, measly 255hp turbo 4 for the same price.

    That is a very easy decision to make. 

    You can get leather on a C300 for $47,695, you have about $6k of options to work with, that can be one of them.  Although MB-Tex might be the most durable material on the planet.

    I agree with Cadillac’s strategy, V6 power and E-class size for 4-cylinder C-class money.  But the C-Class I am sure easily outsells the CT5.  As do 3-series and Tesla Model 3, all same price point.  So it must not be that easy for consumers to buy a Cadillac.

    Edited by smk4565
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    10 minutes ago, smk4565 said:

    You can get leather on a C300 for $47,695, you have about $6k of options to work with, that can be one of them.  Although MB-Tex might be the most durable material on the planet.

    I think the point is that you're not getting comparable performance because you can't get a C43 for that money. You'd still get a turbo 4 for 50k. 

     

    12 minutes ago, smk4565 said:

    I agree with Cadillac’s strategy, V6 power and E-class size for 4-cylinder C-class money.  But the C-Class I am sure easily outsells the CT5.  As do 3-series and Tesla Model 3, all same price point.  So it must not be that easy for consumers to buy a Cadillac.

    While I agree it will continue to outsell them, the sample size is less than a year thus far. This isn't a question of sale. The point is you get more at Cadillac, regardless of what actually sells. 

    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    8 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

    I think the point is that you're not getting comparable performance because you can't get a C43 for that money. You'd still get a turbo 4 for 50k. 

     

    While I agree it will continue to outsell them, the sample size is less than a year thus far. This isn't a question of sale. The point is you get more at Cadillac, regardless of what actually sells. 

    You get more size and more horsepower, but the Germans build good cars, and you can get an ultra reliable Lexus ES350 for CT5 money and to some reliability is all they care about. Lots of options in this segment.  

    I saw on Autoline Cadillac got 1,000 reservations for these 2 cars so they are generating some demand out of the gate.  But I suspect a lot of dealers want one in to get markup on the first ones and a year from now demand will drop.
     

    • Disagree 2
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    Initial run I read was 250 units each, so they already got double the initial run in what; 2-3 days?
    High demand across the enthusiast segment for V-Series Cadillacs.
    I'm sure there will be at least a 2nd run. 

    55 minutes ago, Drew Dowdell said:

    Numbers lie... even Cadillac numbers.  The CT5 does not feel as roomy inside as a 5-series.

    Respectfully, numbers don't lie (tho they can potentially be intentionally manipulated). 'Feels' is subjective, measurements are by nature objective. However, different people will process interior spaces differently.

    I still haven't worked past OEMs giving a full-width front seat hip room measurement when there's a fat console in every car sold now.

    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    1 hour ago, smk4565 said:

    Rolls-Royce is out of Mercedes league.  Maybach trim cars are meant to bridge the gap between a $115k GLS or S-class and a $350,000 Ghost or $500k Phantom.   There was like a $150k price gap between the old S600 and a Ghost with only the Bentley Flying Spur sitting there, easiest decision ever to go into a segment with only 1 competitor.

    So when they (when they were just “Maybach”) were directly trying to complete with RR ten years ago while being 100K cheaper, that was okay? Seriously crazy double standards you are showing here and thats saying something.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    1 hour ago, balthazar said:

    Initial run I read was 250 units each, so they already got double the initial run in what; 2-3 days?
    High demand across the enthusiast segment for V-Series Cadillacs.
    I'm sure there will be at least a 2nd run. 

    Respectfully, numbers don't lie (tho they can potentially be intentionally manipulated). 'Feels' is subjective, measurements are by nature objective. However, different people will process interior spaces differently.

    I still haven't worked past OEMs giving a full-width front seat hip room measurement when there's a fat console in every car sold now.

    @mkaresh has done the research on this. There is no industry standard for measuring interior room. Ford manipulated theirs to the point that he had to just automatically subtract 2 inches from leg room measurements to get something accurate. 

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    I'm not aware of who mkaresh is [Edit: I see he hasn't stopped in since 2016- I remember now], but there's been an SAE standard for interior dimensions since at least 1959. I have the full interior dimensions for Buick & Pontiac for '59 (and '64, 65 and '69 Firebird), and it has monikers/codes for each dimension, and the intro states it is S.A.E. definitions (plus American Manufacturers Association additions).

    '59 Catalina L4 : leg room - front- ball of foot to top of seat to seat back, 15" line : 44.8".

    Now, whether it's policed or verified is another matter.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    1 hour ago, surreal1272 said:

    So when they (when they were just “Maybach”) were directly trying to complete with RR ten years ago while being 100K cheaper, that was okay? Seriously crazy double standards you are showing here and thats saying something.

    2008 Maybach 57: $340,500

    2008 Maybach 62: $431,000

    2008 Maybach 62S Landaulet: $1,350,000

    2008 Rolls-Royce Phantom: $403,000

     

    2005 Rolls-Royce Phantom: $328,750

    2005 Maybach 57:  $325,000

    2005 Maybach 62: $375,000

     

    saabkyle04 on YouTube reviewed a 2011 Maybach 62S with a $519,000 sticker.  Maybach competed directly with Rolls-Royce, and  had more powerful, faster cars.  There just isn't enough market in $500k sedans to put money there.   Rolls-Royce averages about 4,000 cars a year globally, their best year was 5,000 in 2019.  I think Mercedes can let them have their $5k sales and put resources elsewhere.

    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    42 minutes ago, smk4565 said:

     Maybach competed directly with Rolls-Royce, and  had more powerful, faster cars.

    Irrelevant because Rolls Royce is known to advertise their horsepower, torque and performance figures as 'adequate' or 'more than adequate'.   In other words, Rolls Royce does not waste their time computing such mundane stuff and their owners dont care for such vulgarity.  As long as they have 'adequate'  or 'more than adequate'  power to move them along swiftly, in comfort and isolation.  And Rolls Royce definitely does that. And that is all that matters...   And it showed throughout history. Maybach was a flop...SEVERAL times in history,  while Royce Royce never looked back once they took over Bentley so early at the turn of the last century until today.  

    Edited by oldshurst442
    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites

    16 minutes ago, oldshurst442 said:

    Serious question. 

    Do these Blackwing Vs have the new newton/meter badging in the back too like the rest of the Cadillac line-up?

     I wouldnt like that if they did. 

    They need to throw that newton meter badging away.  

    • Agree 1
    Link to comment
    Share on other sites




    Join the conversation

    You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
    Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

    Guest
    Add a comment...

    ×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

      Only 75 emoji are allowed.

    ×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

    ×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

    ×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.


  • 2024 Acura TLX Refresh Pairs-Down Trim Levels

    A vehicle refresh can include updates to technology, slight design changes, and updates to interiors. For 2024, the Acura TLX is back with a few exterior design changes. The most prominent is the front-end with new grille. TLX still uses slim headlights but incorporates a better designed grille. At the side, both the regular TLX and A-Spec TLX come with new 19-inch five-spoke wheels in dark gray. Step-up to the Type S models come with 20-inch black wheels; Type S models can be had with high-perf

    Acura

    Factorial Energy Opens Solid-State Battery Production Facility

    Factorial loves to quote Thomas Edison who in 1883 said the following: "The storage battery is, in my opinion, a catchpenny, a sensation, a mechanism for swindling the public by stock companies." Factorial states that this sentiment is true and has been held over the last 138 years till now. Investing in solid-state battery R&D over the last 6 years has allowed Factorial to create their proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology). Factorial held their

    Automotive Industry

    Mazda unveils the Iconic SP concept

    At the 2023 Tokyo auto show, Mazda unveiled a sports car concept. Originally named Vision Study Model, the Iconic SP, utilizes an interesting engine combination. This hybrid-rotary-powered sports car uses the twin-rotor rotary engine as a generator to recharge the batteries. Iconic SP is around 10 inches longer than Mazda’s compact Miata. Although Mazda hasn't disclosed the number of electric motors, they are the main propulsion system. As a range-extending EV, that rotary engine doesn’t dr

    Mazda


×
×
  • Create New...

Hey there, we notice you're using an ad-blocker. We're a small site that is supported by ads or subscriptions. We rely on these to pay for server costs and vehicle reviews.  Please consider whitelisting us in your ad-blocker, or if you really like what you see, you can pick up one of our subscriptions for just $1.75 a month or $15 a year. It may not seem like a lot, but it goes a long way to help support real, honest content, that isn't generated by an AI bot.

See you out there.

Drew
Editor-in-Chief

Write what you are looking for and press enter or click the search icon to begin your search