Cadillac Makes First Public Mention Of CT6-V

Last week, we told you all about Cadillac’s decision to change the name of the CT6 V-Sport to CT6-V. Interestingly, the reports on which this information was based came from second-hand accounts of Cadillac’s most recent national dealer’s meeting, followed by a quote from Mark Reuss, who holds a rather unique position that we can succinctly describe as Cadillac’s chairman (the new Cadillac President, Steve Carlisle, reports to Reuss). Outside of that, however, we haven’t seen any form of communication – not even a mention – about the CT6 V-Sport becoming CT6-V… until now.

As of this writing, the Cadillac.com homepage features a new slider image that has a picture of the CT6 V-Sport accompanied by the following words:

“The first-ever CT6-V. From its striking design to its groundbreaking powertrain, the CT6-V is as powerful as it is exhilarating”.

A link to “Learn More” redirects to another page that is sparse on actual information about the vehicle, but doe  ask the user for an email address that would be used to provide further information and alerts about the vehicle.

So even though this is no big deal, let this go down in the books as Cadillac’s first public reference to the CT6-V – a vehicle that has not been announced publicly in the slightest.

About The 2019 Cadillac CT6-V

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 CT6-V will go on sale. As of this writing, it has been six months since the CT6 V-Sport was initially announced.