Last year, Cadillac Society reported that the ultra high-performance variant of the Cadillac CT5-V will carry the Blackwing moniker. And now, we have come to learn what will power the range-topping beast.
That engine is none other than the supercharged 6.2L V8 (production code LT4) that was utilized in the outgoing, third-generation CTS-V. That much was hinted at months ago, and we even provided a video of a prototype undergoing testing with a distinct small block engine note.
In the 2016-2019 CTS-V, the blown small block made 640 horsepower (477.2 kW) at 6400 RPM and 630 pound-feet of torque (854.2 Nm) at 3600 RPM. It also featured Active Fuel Management technology, otherwise known as Cylinder Deactivation, capable of operating the engine in four-cylinder mode in order to conserve fuel.
Rumors that the CT5-V Blackwing will be offered with a stick previously started to circle in 2019, but we were able to confirm that Cadillac offer offer the super sedan with a choice of two transmissions: either a 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual.
Those paying particular attention will notice the irony in the CT5-V Blackwing not being equipped with Cadillac’s new twin-turbo V8 DOHC engine, otherwise known as Blackwing. Unfortunately, production of Blackwing engine will be phased out in the coming months, as Cadillac discontinues the CT6 as well as the CT6-V and CT6 Platinum models where the engine is currently utilized. Even so, we’re told that the range-topping Cadillac CT5-V will retain the Blackwing moniker, despite not having the actual Blackwing engine.
Besides power and torque in the 600 horsepower and 600 pound-feet area, the CT5-V Blackwing will also feature bigger and wider wheels/tires, a more capable suspension system, larger brakes, and more aggressive body accents.
The CT5-V Blackwing will slot above the already-unveiled CT5-V as the flagship of the CT5 lineup. In that regard, the model is the indirect successor to the ATS-V and CTS-V. However, much like the CT5, the CT5-V Blackwing will be positioned in the D segment to take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, BMW M3, Audi RS4/RS5 and the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
As of this writing, we expect the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing to be revealed later in 2020 and go on sale in 2021.
We’ll have much more on this super sedan in the near future, so be sure to subscribe to Cadillac Society for more Cadillac CT5 news and Cadillac news coverage. Plus, don’t forget to join the discussion in our Cadillac forums.
Marshall Sumner
So when will the ordinary CT5 Premium Luxury get its 6 cylinder engine? And what about SuperCruise?
Alex Luft
It can be optioned with the twin-turbo 3.0L V6 from the CT5-V.
SuperCruise will be available later on this year.
Marshall Sumner
“It can be optioned”, but it can not be ordered at this time.
I guess what I am asking is on what date Cadillac will actually deliver these two options. I am putting off ordering a new car because I am waiting for them. I hope that “later this year” does not mean Dec. 31 like it did for the delivery of CT5 itself.
I am beginning to think in terms of the 2021 CT5. Any clew as to the date on which these will be available?
Catbert
……and the “only for Cadillac” Blackwing will be a Corvette powerplant.
xjug
So Alex…. would you not finally agree the brand confusion and “cost cutting” at GM continue to compromise the brand. I mean think of the investments they’ve just tossed on the trash heap, whereas continued development would yield a better product, commitment to the products, and a consistent message…. The Germans are positively LAUGHING at this company and this brand…
Alex Luft
It seems that you’ve included the word “finally” in your statement because you have an opinion-based agenda to push… hence you’re trying to guide your question toward the answer that you’d like. But to answer your question with one word – it’s “no” – I do not agree with your take because it doesn’t correlate with reality.
The more detailed answer is this: what’s taking place with Blackwing is not cost-cutting. Instead, it’s common business sense. Continuing to produce and invest in two V8 engine families at a time when the company has taken a leap off the deep end into the body of water called “EV” is silly and makes no sense. I’m actually surprised Blackwing ever got green-lit in the first place at a time when the EV strategy was already in place, especially given that the OHV V8 engines do the same job, at a lower cost and at greater scale. One can bring up the tired refinement argument here… but that’s a matter for another moment.
At the end of the day, the CT6 could have had the LT4 and the world would have rejoiced. Instead, they pulled ATS-V – doing a twin-turbo DOHC engine simply because the competitors were doing it too. Cadillac can and should have used the LT1 and LT4 in the CT6, and Blackwing – as great of an engine as it is – never had to be.
Greg
Thank you, Alex.
George Shanks
What is the status of the CUE?
Brian R
It should not carry the Blackwing name then.
Pedestal perhaps?
Lew
A front engine, rear wheel drive American sedan powered by a big honkin’ V-8, what’s not to like? Blackwing, redwing, whatever, call it anything you want to, the truth is only Chrysler offers an alternative. The fact that it’s not German is what makes it cool. I’m not sure how many GM/Cadillac will actually sell, but kudos to them for having the guts to do it!
Marshall Sumner
Yes, I know the V6 and SuperCruise can be optioned, but when? Perhaps just in time for the 2021 models?
George Shanks
Will Cadillac fix the Cue system in the 2020-2021 models?
Mehul Kamdar
While I was disappointed that the Blackwing CT6 was canceled due to economic difficulties, this is a great alternative. I will wait for the Blackwing CT5. I love cars that are small and fast, and this seems like a fantastic decision on GM’s part. Here’s wishing a great company the very best!