Both the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing come equipped as standard with a manual transmission, a rare thing indeed in the high-performance luxury sedan segment. A 10-speed automatic is optional. Although a three-pedal setup is undoubtedly popular among enthusiasts, the vast majority of buyers still prefer an automatic transmission. Nevertheless, Caddy thinks the take rate for Cadillac Blackwing sedans equipped with a manual transmission could reach as high as 35 percent.
The prediction comes from Cadillac chief engineer Tony Roma, who spoke with Autoline After Hours in a recent interview.
“Historically, we’ve been in the roughly 25-percent range when we’ve offered both [a manual and automatic transmission] before on V-Series,” Roma said. “So we do expect it will be in that 25 to 35 percent range [for CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing].”
The manual transmission in question is a six-speed unit from Tremec, and features a 3D-printed medallion on top of the shifter knob, plus carbon fiber accents. Alternatively, Cadillac Blackwing buyers can opt for an available 10-speed automatic, which features magnesium paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.
As for the powertrains on offer, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is motivated by the supercharged 6.2L V8 LT4, doling out a heady 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is motivated by the twin-turbocharged 3.6L V6 LF4, which produces 472 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque.
Output is routed exclusively to the rear wheels, with 60 mph arriving in 3.7 seconds in the CT5-V Blackwing, and 3.8 seconds in the CT4-V Blackwing. The manufacturer’s estimated top speed is set at 189 mph for the CT4-V Blackwing and over 200 mph for the CT5-V Blackwing.
The first units of the Cadillac Blackwing sedans will start rolling off the at the GM Lansing Grand River assembly plant in Michigan this summer.
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This post was created in collaboration with our sister publication, Cadillac Society.
Comments
Wish they would offer the manual in the CT4-V also. My next car could be a manual CT4-V, of if no manual offered, a recent year manual Corvette.
wish they would sell them in australia in manual
I think it is Tony Roma not Tomy , and we do need to be thankful for all of his hard work on the development of these cars , especially the manual gear box . I had the privilege of meeting him @ Sebring a few years ago and he is very passionate about the Performance Division @ G.M. .
I am glad to see you corrected his name .