In a rather unexpected turn of events, Cadillac has decided to rename one of its most anticipated models – the 2019 CT6 V-Sport. So going forward, the Cadillac CT6 V-Sport will be known as the Cadillac CT6-V.
The surprising move was announced at Cadillac’s most recent national dealer meeting this week, which marked the first time Steve Carlisle took the stage as President of Cadillac.
However, it was Mark Reuss – who has recently begun to oversee Cadillac at its parent, General Motors Company, that shared his take on the name change.
“Beginning with the debut of the CTS-V Sedan in 2004, the V-Series sub-brand sparked new life into Cadillac,” GM President of Global Product Group and Cadillac Mark Reuss said in a statement. “As a result of the overwhelming response the CT6 V-Sport received when revealed in early 2018, we’ve decided to formally make it a V-Series, signaling the expansion of V-Series.”
From what it seems as of this writing, the CT6 V-Sport will literally get a name change – and only a name change. In other words, Cadillac won’t be making any changes or adjustments to the vehicle as it makes it a “true” V-Series model.
Initially announced in March 2018, the 2019 Cadillac CT6-V is a high(er)-performance version of the full-size Cadillac CT6 sedan. The vehicle introduces the marque’s 4.2-liter twin-turbo V8 engine – a clean-sheet design that carries the internal codename “Blackwing”.
The new boosted eight is Cadillac’s first dual-overhead-cam V8 engine since the Northstar engine family. Cadillac announced that the motor will have two outputs, depending on the model:
- 500 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque for the Platinum model, and
- 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque for the V-Sport model (now CT6-V)
Notably, Cadillac’s 4.2L Twin-Turbo V8 Blackwing engine features a “hot-vee setup”, configuration where the turbochargers are mounted atop the engine for quicker spooling – thanks to less plumbing between the exhaust ports and turbines – and smaller packaging.
The CT6-V will be available exclusively in AWD. Shifting duty will come from the new 10-speed automatic transmission mated to a with a limited-slip rear differential and summer tires developed specially for the model.
Modified tuning is applied to the steering system, with a special calibration in store for the Magnetic Ride Control dampers. Specific suspension tuning for improved roll control, cornering capability and steering response will also be in order. The vehicle rides on 20-inch wheels and features a new 19-inch Brembo monoblock, fixed-opposed, four-piston brake system developed specifically for the high-performance application of the CT6.
Special aerodynamics are also in order, consisting of performance linings and air deflectors that direct air to cool the brakes during sporty, aggressive driving. Also included is a a specially-tuned exhaust system with active valves offering reduced back pressure, more sound character and a performance exhaust note specially tuned for the high-performance model model.
Currently unclear is when the rechristened CT6-V will go on sale. As of this writing, it has been six months since the CT6 V-Sport has been announced.
Greg
Hmmmmm…..
Not sure what to make of this. I wonder if the planned “V” model was cancelled, and this name change is a result?
On the other hand, I was always a bit confused about “V” and “V-SPORT”. I do know they were different cars, but the names themselves were so close.
Johnls_39
Going by the Y Trim strategy, makes me wonder if there will be a V-Sport of any future model line-up or they all are going to be V Series that will eliminate the V-Sport altogether in the future? IMO, there should be V-Sport and V Series side-by-side.
Ralph L
I think it will be confusing to have a Sport model, a V-Sport and a V, particularly if all three have the blacked out trim. It would be better if the Sport starts with the trim and 3.0 with the 500 hp V8 available. I’m not sure how they can differentiate the looks of the Sport and V without adding more spoiling plastic?
I’d like to see the V8 available in all trims (likewise for the CT5), but that ain’t happening. Tires bigger than rubber bands would also be good. With MRC, they ought to be able to deliver a comfortable ride with handling good enough to satisfy car reviewers and GM lawyers.
Steve
There was no planned “V” model for the CT6. JdN (and others) I’m sure felt that the CT6 was too big to meet the “pure” requirements of a V car. Similarly, before deNysshen was fired there were no plans for any “XT” model Vs. V-Sports would, however, be possible for the crossovers.
I’m not sure how I feel about this. It could lead to a dilution of the V brand, but then again with the newly introduced “Y” product strategy I could see different levels of Sport, V-Sport, V becoming confusing.
Perhaps Caddy should have just stuck with a German strategy of having the base model, one performance level up is the “V-Sport” – or “MSport” if you’re BMW, and then the “V” at the pinnacle.
Felix
Do you think this is what Reuss wanted it to be called and Johan wanted it to be called V-Sport. Now that Johan is gone and Reuss has more Controll over Cadillac he get to call it what he wanted to call it in the first place.
Momolos
So Cadillac will position the CT6-V vs the M5 huh?
No Recaro seats, no sport specific exhaust, not Nurburghring tested, no hood scoops, not Carbon outer wind spoilers. Nothing.
Good luck GM. This is just getting utterly embarrassing how GM is treating Cadillac. I still cannot believe they let go of Johan. GM will never change. The Bean counters will run them into the ground again.
Eirikur Hjartarson
Gentlemen.
I am still interested in getting the first Electric model here in Iceland and the directly from the factory. Please code your best price FOB Portland, Main.
Sincerely yours.
Eirikur Hjartarson,
Birkiteigur 27,
230 Keflavik,
Iceland