In an unexpected announcement, Cadillac has revealed the all-new CT5. Instead of telling us about the actual vehicle in its announcement, Cadillac instead told us that it will reveal the new model using a series of “Sensory Symphony” videos, while also sharing a few details about the vehicle. So, here’s what we currently known about the new Cadillac CT5.
Cadillac says that the platform is “an evolution” of the award-winning RWD/AWD Alpha architecture. We have learned that the architecture in question is known internally as Alpha 2.
As for the engines, the new Cadillac CT5 will be powered by the all-new, turbo-charged 2.0L I-4 LSY engine that made its debut in the Cadillac XT4 and refreshed 2019 CT6. A Twin-Turbo 3.0L V6 will be available, though it’s unclear whether the engine will actually be the 3.0L LGW V6 offered in the CT6 or an upgraded version. Cadillac says that the twin-turbo 3.0L motor features “unique sound calibrations.”
Both CT5 engines will be mated to the new GM 10-speed automatic transmission that offers “nearly imperceptible shifts”, according to Caddy.
The new Cadillac CT5 features the newest iteration of the brand’s design language, complete with a set of horizontal and vertical lighting elements. The design is highly reminiscent to that of the new XT6.
Despite having a quickly-sloping roofline that gives it the appearance of a fastback, the new Cadillac CT5 still features a trunk of a typical sedan. It’s unclear whether other body variants, like a coupe and convertible, will be offered.
Cadillac doesn’t say it outright in its announcement, but the CT5 is the indirect replacement to the ATS and CTS. We’re also here to tell you that the all-new CT5 will compete in the D-segment against the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
Finally, Cadillac says that the “CT5 showcases Cadillac’s unique expertise in crafting American performance sedans, with details designed to elevate every drive.”
The Cadillac CT5 will be offered in three trim levels, at least initially: Luxury (base), Premium Luxury, and Sport – thereby giving customers a choice of appearance and ride character. In that regard, the CT5 becomes the fourth Cadillac model to follow the brand’s new Y-trim level strategy. An ultra-high-performance CT5-V model is expected to be offered later on in the model’s lifecycle. It’s unclear whether a CT5 V-Sport will be offered.
In these photos, the grey model is the CT5 Sport, while the one in burgundy is the CT5 Premium Luxury.
Inside, the new Cadillac CT5 features a “driver-centric cockpit” that “blends high tech and high touch for an exceptional blend of control tactility.”
No pictures of the actual cockpit were made available in the announcement except for the one below, which shows the rotary controls initially introduced in the refreshed 2019 Cadillac CT6 and all-new 2019 Cadillac XT4.
The new Cadillac CT5 will make its public debut in April at the New York International Auto Show. It will be built at the Lansing Grand River plant. The facility received a $211 million investment to build the next-generation Cadillac sedan.
The Cadillac Jinqiao plant in Shanghai, China is expected to produce the model for the Chinese market.
Stay tuned to Cadillac Society for more for more CT5 news and Cadillac news coverage.
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