SUMMARY
Cadillac is known for amazing build quality and impressive performance when it comes to their cars. On February 2021, they unveiled what would be the last of their gasoline-powered cars before they make the transition to electric power. For a final ride, Cadillac seems to have saved the best for last with the newest iteration of the Cadillac CTV-4 Blackwing. This track-ready beast is ready to serve driving enthusiasts with the same great driving experience that has defined Cadillac for all these years.
LATEST
The revamped and souped-up 2022 CT4-V Blackwing Sedan marks the fourth generation of the V-Series. A brand new turbocharged V6 engine, an advanced stability control system for high-speed rides, and the option of either the 10-speed automatic transmission, or the 6-speed manual transmission. All of these helps make the CT4-V Blackwing a force to be reckoned with on the track, as well as raises the bar for sport sedans.
ESTIMATED VALUE
The CT4-V Blackwing will be priced at $59,990*. It will come standard with the 6-speed manual transmission, but buyers can go for the 10-speed automatic which is priced at an additional $3,175*. The automatic model will also include adaptive safety features that are exclusive to it.
MACHINE PERFORMANCE
As one of the brand’s last gasoline-powered sport sedan, Cadillac has seemed to pull out all the stops for this one. The 2022 CT4-V Blackwing makes use of a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 engine, capable of 472 horsepower and outputting 445 pounds-feet of torque. That power the then sent to the rear wheels using the 10-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. This sport sedan doesn’t feature an all-wheel drive model.
Cadillac themselves have stated a 4.1-second time to get from 0 to 60 mph with the stick-shift manual transmission, with the 10-speed automatic dropping the sprint time down to 3.9 seconds. The max speed for both the AT and MT models tops out at about 189 mph.
Those going for the six-speed manual may find slower acceleration times, but that doesn’t mean it’s taking a back seat to the automatics. The manual models, equipped with a Tremec TR-6060 transmission, offer a no-lift-shift feature that helps to make it feel even quicker than the other model. The company has even added in titanium connecting rods which help to improve engine response for those going for the manual.
The engine roars with a distinct aggression, as if it’s raring to go onto the track. The front and rear enhanced suspensions all use GM’s Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, allowing it to fully absorb bumps on the road. Brembo brakes have been installed, in-line with the track-ready kit the Blackwing has, allowing it the stopping power to dab the brakes and adjust your speed.
The CT4-V is a like a sharp knife, giving the driver a great amount of control while speeding off into the distance. The Michelin Pilot 4S Tires, both on 18-inch wheels, is where a huge part of the handling comes from. Buyers bringing this out onto a track day can use the “Performance Traction Management” system to explore the limits of this beauty. Alongside its limited-slip differential, it helps adjust traction and stability according to the different modes on the system. Modes include Wet, Dry, Sport, Race 1 and Race 2. All this accessible through a lever on the steering wheel, as if it were a switch that makes this sedan roar like thunder.
FUEL EFFICIENT & ACTUAL MPG
EPA ratings have been released regarding the 2022 CT4-V Blackwing, both the automatic and manual models. The automatic scored 16 MPG/City and 24 MPG/Highway, wile the manual model had 1 less in both the MPG ratings. More information can be garnered from the EPA’s own website, as well as other online sites.
INTERIOR, SOLACE AND BAGGAGE
The CT4-V, being a much sportier sedan, comes with an assortment of luxuries that anyone can appreciate. Maybe not as nice as other cars in the sports sedan market, especially with the plain black interior. It comes with a 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster. A finely crafted steering wheel, accompanied with carbon-fiber design elements, really enhances the V-series treatment. The heated sports seats feature pneumatic bolsters for both the thighs and torso of the rider. Ventilation and Massage functionality on the seats can be added via an optional package.
Trunk space is tight, as with a lot of sports sedans. Only 10.7 cubic-feet of space is available for stowing away cargo, which is just enough for five suitcases according to some tests.
TECHNOLOGY
The infotainment systems on the CT4-V Blackwing starts off with an 8-inch color touchscreen. It comes integrated with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and wireless smartphone charging capabilities. There are also multiple charging ports available for use. Physical buttons and a rotary knob are used to navigate the infotainment system.
A 14-speaker AKG premium audio system comes standard to this sports sedan, adorned with aluminum grilles and other lightweight materials.
Lastly, it comes with a Performance Data Recorder which allows drivers to record videos of their drives and laps on the track. It also displays different performance parameters, overlayed onto the video. Using Cosworth racing software, it gives drivers a way to analyze their driving in closer detail.
SAFETY
A wide range of driver-assistance technology has been made standard to the CT4-V. Features such as a rear automated emergency braking system and adaptive cruise control are available with the Driver Assist package. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning systems with automated braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance systems, and a lane-departure warning system.
WARRANTY
Cadillac has always offered a much more limited warranty plan, with only their powertrain coverage having a longer coverage period compared to competitors. Complimentary maintenance service is also a downside with Cadillac, as it is only covered for the first visit.
The Limited warranty spans for four years or the first 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The Powertrain warranty covers only six years or the first 70,000 miles.