2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Review: Price, Specs, and Performance
Introduction
The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is Cadillac’s answer to high-performance luxury sedans, standing at the pinnacle of American automotive engineering. With a potent supercharged V8 engine under the hood and handling dynamics rivaling the best European sports sedans, the Blackwing delivers blistering speed while maintaining the refinement Cadillac is known for. As the flagship model of Cadillac’s performance V-series, the CT5-V Blackwing blends luxury with raw power, offering an exhilarating driving experience.
Exterior Design
The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing looks as aggressive as it performs. Its wide stance, sharp lines, and aerodynamic accents scream performance. The grille is large and bold, with V-series badging that gives it an unmistakable presence on the road. It features aerodynamic elements like functional air vents on the hood and carbon-fiber accents that help cool the engine and provide downforce at high speeds.
Cadillac equips the CT5-V Blackwing with 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, and behind them are large Brembo brakes, hinting at the car’s formidable performance capabilities. The overall design is muscular and sleek, creating a perfect balance between a luxury sedan and a track-ready machine.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the 2023 CT5-V Blackwing is a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that pumps out a staggering 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission for purists or a 10-speed automatic for those who prefer lightning-quick shifts. With power sent to the rear wheels, the CT5-V Blackwing launches from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds with the automatic transmission.
For those who love speed, the top speed is an exhilarating 200 mph, making the CT5-V Blackwing one of the fastest sedans in the world. Despite its muscle car-like power, the sedan maintains a refined driving experience, thanks to Cadillac’s advanced suspension system.
Key Performance Specs:
- Engine: 6.2-liter supercharged V8
- Horsepower: 668 hp
- Torque: 659 lb-ft
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
- 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds (automatic)
- Top Speed: 200 mph
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Handling and Driving Dynamics
Despite the immense power, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is not just about straight-line speed; its handling is just as impressive. Cadillac equipped the Blackwing with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, an adaptive suspension system that reads the road up to 1,000 times per second, adjusting damping to provide optimal comfort or maximum performance, depending on the driving mode.
The Blackwing also benefits from a limited-slip rear differential, Brembo brakes, and an optional carbon-ceramic braking system that provides consistent, fade-free stopping power. The result is a car that feels nimble and composed in tight corners, but also smooth and luxurious during highway cruising.
Cadillac’s Performance Traction Management (PTM) system offers multiple levels of intervention, allowing the driver to tailor the car’s handling for different track or road conditions. The rear-wheel-drive platform and near-perfect weight distribution ensure that the CT5-V Blackwing delivers a rewarding and connected driving experience, whether you’re on a track or a mountain road.
Interior and Technology
Inside the cabin, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing combines luxury with performance cues. The seats are aggressively bolstered for support during spirited driving, with available semi-aniline leather and carbon-fiber accents enhancing the sporty vibe. The front seats also offer ventilation, heating, and massaging functions for maximum comfort.
The dashboard features Cadillac’s latest high-resolution 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 10-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose 15-speaker sound system. Additionally, the Performance Data Recorder (PDR) allows drivers to record lap times and driving data, making it perfect for track enthusiasts.
Other tech highlights include:
- Heads-up display (HUD)
- Wireless charging
- Enhanced navigation
- Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities
Despite its performance focus, the Blackwing doesn’t sacrifice luxury. The cabin materials, fit, and finish are top-notch, comparable to European competitors from BMW’s M division and Mercedes-AMG.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Cadillac ensures that the CT5-V Blackwing is as safe as it is fast. It comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features:
- Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
However, due to the car’s performance nature, Super Cruise, Cadillac’s hands-free driving technology, is not available on this model.
Fuel Economy
Given its powerful engine, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing isn’t particularly fuel-efficient. The EPA estimates the fuel economy at 13 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, which is in line with other high-performance sedans. While not ideal for the eco-conscious driver, the thrilling driving experience more than makes up for it.
Pricing
The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing starts at around $91,000, but adding options like the carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fiber package, and premium interior materials can push the price north of $110,000. Despite the premium price tag, the CT5-V Blackwing offers a lot of value when compared to rivals like the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-AMG E63.
Conclusion
The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a modern American muscle car disguised as a luxury sedan. It’s the ultimate expression of Cadillac’s V-series, combining an awe-inspiring supercharged V8 with advanced handling dynamics and top-notch luxury. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver that can outperform on the track or a weekend toy that oozes sophistication, the CT5-V Blackwing is a compelling choice.
Recommendation
If you’re in the market for a high-performance luxury sedan that offers raw power, impressive handling, and a luxurious cabin, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the few sedans that can go toe-to-toe with the best from BMW and Mercedes, while offering an authentic American driving experience.
