New Cadillac CT5-V: A new American Standard

The new Cadillac CT5-V is one step closer for the brand to reclaim the marque, “The Standard of the World.” Innovative and refined, it brings back many of the features missing from some of Cadillac’s previous offerings. Napleton News had a chance to get behind the wheel of the CT5-V recently. Here’s what we thought.

Hot-Rod Cadillac CT5-V

The new 2021 Cadillac CT5-V is part of the new naming convention at the brand that has cars named with a CT followed by a model number (CT5) which tells where it is located within the range. An XT denotes the brand’s crossovers, while the brand flagship remains the Escalade.

The base CT5 can be had with a choice of three engines ranging from a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder that makes 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Next up is a mid-level 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. Finally, and what we were testing, the top shelf CT5-V series with its exclusive 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 360 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. The CT5-V is standard with rear-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available for those who prefer grip at all four wheels. A 10-speed automatic transmission is used with all engine choices.

The CT5-V can be optioned with GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Using compatible highways, the car can “talk with routes” to safely guide the CT5 along the predetermined roadway, all while doing it hands-free!

What’s new on the Cadillac CT5-V: Features?

A host of new features have made their way onto the Cadillac CT5-V build sheets. Here are a few of the offerings:

• Premium Luxury and CT5-V models offer updated Super Cruise features.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration is included.
• Updated infotainment system operations.
• Available 12.3-inch digital driver display.
• Teen driver feature includes buckle-up to drive function.

How much is the new Cadillac CT5-V?

The entry-level CT5 Luxury model with RWD starts with a base MSRP of $37,990, including a $995 destination charge. The Premium Luxury model opens you to more options than the base entry and adds another $3,800 to the total price. Our CT5-V starts with a price point of $48,790. All-wheel drive adds $2,000 to the bottom line of all models.

How does the Cadillac CT5-V look?

The fastback is hardly a new design, but in the case of the CT5-V, it takes on a very European appearance. It has a look that would not be out of place amongst some of its competitors.  These include the Kia Stinger GT2, Audi A5/S5 and BMW 4-Series.

Our CT5-V featured 19-inch alloy wheels, a mesh grille, quad exhaust system and dark exterior accents. LED lighting at the front and the rear of the CT5-V offer a distinctive view, whether coming or going. They lend to a look that is both aggressive and authoritative.

The overall side profile of the CT5-V is one of its most compelling features. We love how it looks rapid, even while parked.

New Cadillac CT5-V Interior Picture

 

Well-designed, the new CT5-V offers a sporty set of tan seats with sufficient bolstering to keep you firmly in place while rounding a track day curve. The rear seating isn’t bad but might be a bit challenging for those over six feet tall.

A new 10-inch touchscreen display anchors the infotainment system with physical knobs in place for volume and tuning. These knobs are becoming as rare as hen’s teeth lately, so it is quite good to see them making a stand inside the CT5-V interior. One of our favorite features makes its way into the CT5-V: A digital rear camera mirror provides a wide view through a trunk-mounted camera lens.

Behind the wheel of this Cadillac

The Cadillac CT5-V is one of the latest fun machines from Cadillac. Stuffed with a twin-turbo V6 mill, it provides potent pickup for a vehicle with a traditional rear-drive powertrain. An abundance of power kicks the car around the turns and brakes offer stellar recovery following a high-speed run. At the same time, all-wheel drive is available but more suited for situations with challenging weather or road conditions.

A drive-mode selector includes settings like Tour, Sport, Track, Snow/Ice and My Mode. Entering any one of these tailors the steering, transmission and suspension settings for a more compliant ride. Drivers can save individual settings under the My Mode control. They can in essence, mix and match the vehicle characteristics to the driver’s taste.

Magnetic ride control is on-board offering adjustments on the fly thanks to sensors that read the road thousands of times per second to settle the car properly regardless of road conditions. That bit of kit joins an electronic limited-slip rear differential to provide a muscular presence regardless of drive situation.

And if all this is not enough, Cadillac has just introduced the CT5-V Blackwing. GM’s 668 hp supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine powers the Blackwing. Available with either a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission, it beats with the heart and power of a Chevrolet Corvette but the elegance of a Cadillac.

Bring it on!