Last month, GM announced the all-new 2020 Cadillac CT5-V. Unfortunately, many were left feeling a bit “meh” following the reveal. Chalk that up to a new two-tier V-Series strategy that will now include more approachable models, resulting in the CT5-V’s rather pedestrian output figures. But that wasn’t great news for enthusiasts, as the new CT5-V simply doesn’t have the ponies needed to replace the third-gen Cadillac CTS-V and its outrageous 640 horsepower.
The good news is that there’s another, more track-focused CT5-V on the way. This next-level variant will offer greater performance potential than the standard CT5-V model, as exhibited by a camouflaged prototype that teased its way around the Belle Isle track ahead of the 2019 Detroit Grand Prix. And that leads us to the next obvious question: compared to the “standard” CT5-V, what makes the next-level Cadillac CT5-V prototype unique? To answer that, we’re putting ‘em side by side and picking ‘em apart.
One note before we get started: it’s highly likely that the “next-level” CT5-V prototype shown at Belle Isle is a very early one. As such, it will likely change during the development process to include more aggressive features and components.
Front End
It’s a little difficult to pick out exactly what’s going on in front of the next-level Cadillac CT5-V, what with its heavy camouflage and thick black netting. However, there are a few things we can identify.
For starters, the prototype’s headlamps are identical to those of the standard CT5-V. That includes the vertical accent lamps lower in the bumper. However, the grille is definitely different. Side by side, we see the next-level CT5-V’s intake is bigger than that of the standard model, and it’s a different shape as well. The design of the grille insert also seems to be a point of departure.
Below the large upper grille, the prototype’s lower intake is flanked by a set of air-blade elements located near the vertical lighting signatures. Further towards the sides, the mirror caps are blacked-out, although this may be part of the camouflage of the next-level CT5-V, rather than a design change.
Looking ahead, we expect additional visual changes with the next-level Cadillac CT5-V that aren’t included with this prototype, such as large air extractor vents in the hood and – potentially – an entirely new hood altogether.
Sides & Rear End
Unsurprisingly, the next-level CT5-V gets a brand new wheel spec, with large, blacked-out alloy rollers. It also looks as though the wheels and tires are wider than those of the standard CT5-V, which makes sense if the next-level model is intended to stick even harder.
Behind the front wheels, low in the fenders, we spy small air vents. These likely work in tandem with the air intakes next to the vertical light signatures at the front to help cool the upgraded front brakes.
Viewed from the rear, the next-level Cadillac CT5-V prototype is equipped with the same subtle spoiler as the standard CT5-V model. However, the next-level Cadillac CT5-V will likely get even bigger aero bits when it comes to production.
To finish it off, the next-level prototype gets the same quad trapezoidal exhaust tips as the standard model, but again, it’s possible these may change when the next-level model hits production, likely with some sort of black finish added to match the wheels.
What’s Under The Hood?
For now, the standard CT5-V is equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 LGY engine laying down 355 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Output is routed through the new GM 10-speed automatic transmission to standard rear-wheel-drive, with all-wheel-drive being an available option.
By comparison, the next-level Cadillac CT5-V is expected to receive Caddy’s 4.2L “Blackwing” Twin-Turbo V8, which produces 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque when cradled by the CT6-V. The rest of the specs should match the higher output figures, with bigger brakes and sharper settings for the Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
We’re chomping at the bit to see what Cadillac has in store with this go-faster premium four-door, but we’ll have to wait for any official info. Until then, subscribe to GM Authority for more CT5 news, Cadillac news, and 24/7 GM news coverage.
This report is produced in collaboration with our sister publication, Cadillac Society.
Comments
Why does everybody want the blackwing? What about the current LT4 more power and torque (in a smaller than current CTS) and probably sounds better as well.
Because they are trying to differentiate themselves from the rest of the GM manufacturers. Hence getting different engines than from the rest of GM is part of that strategy. So really the only options you really have is a higher output 3.6 tt v6 or the Blackwing
But the refinement levels, especially NVH, is where the difference is. The LT4 is a great engine that’s as capable as it is monstrous… but the LTA/Blackwing is a whole different animal. With the Blackwing, the power comes on strong but in a very refined sort of way. You have to experience it to see it.
I would equate it to riding a $1,000 road bike and then hopping onto a $10,000 road bike with a carbon fiber frame/fork and doing the same. The dimensions of both bikes is roughly the same and you can accomplish roughly the same thing with both, but the experience delivered by the carbon fiber one is totally and completely different.
I agree that Cadillac’s highest performance car should be getting the LT4. There’s no shame in sharing an engine with a Corvette. Especially when the CT4-V is using the Silverado’s entry level engine.
To earn credibility amongst enthusiasts and V-series owners, there needs to at least be the option to order the car with a manual transmission. As far as I’m concerned, nothing since the 2nd generation CTS-V has interested me. Especially the V-wagon.
Unfortunately, the subset of buyers you’re referring to are dwindling by the minute. Yes, there is a subset of buyers who want a manual transmission in a high-performance luxury car. That amount is minuscule, and shrinking.
As for “earning credibility”, they already have done so over the past two decades with all V-Series cars. What they need is to attract more buyers who have NOT been typical customers. That’s where the true opportunity lies for V-Series and for Cadillac as a whole.
Let Cadillac be Chevy ops Cadillac
I guess nobody caught it? The entire shell is copying the same body of a mitsubishy(pardon my spelling) Evo 4dr!!!
If I had to take an honest guess at things. The CT4 will receive the 3.6L V6 Twin Turbo upgraded to 475hp/455tq, the CT5-V will get the 4.2L 500hp Blackwing Twin turbo setup. All in all, I think I’ll stick with my plan in getting an ATS-V. IMO the ATS-V was a way better looking car.
I agree that the ATS-V is much better looking, especially as a coupe. The new models may offer AWD which the ATS lacks, but it appears that means no MRC. We also know that that the transmission and infotainment system will be better in the new models, and the interiors will be upgraded. Still preferring the ATS is understandable. it is a great and underappreciated car.
THE CARS LOOK EXACTLY THE SAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Pardon me. The cars do look almost the same. I would prefer they go all out to challenge the GT63s with the LT5 and (please!!) an optional carbon fiber wing. Also, I think it might be called V-TRACK because Blackwing is an engine family and caddilac wants to leave the 2020s electric. V will still be here. I would also hope that (because these new Vs are less powerful than the old V sports) they add a V+ model aswell. The cars also should have “identities”.
CT4- The precision machine
CT5- The joy machine
CT6- The touring machine
XT range- the family family of machines
Escalade- The hangout machine
Seville- The Grand touring machine
Eldorado- The ultimate Machine
The seville would be a GT car (coupe, convertible). Eldorado would be a full sized- suicide door sedan or 4 door droptop.
CT4 V+ 3.0TT
CT5 V+ LT1
CT4 V track LT2
CT5 V track LT5