Over the next few days, GM Authority will be behind the wheel of the 2021 Cadillac CT5-V. The CT5 indirectly replaced the ATS Sedan (and the ATS-L Sedan in China), slotting into the D-segment to rival the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The current Cadillac CT5 is built on the GM Alpha platform at the GM Lansing Grand River plant in Michigan. The general architecture is shared with the first-gen Cadillac CT4 as well as the sixth-gen Chevy Camaro.
The CT5-V is the new performance-oriented model that slots between the “regular” CT5 as well as the range-topping CT5-V Blackwing. In that space, it competes directly with the BMW M340i, Mercedes-AMG C43, and Audi S4/S5.
The CT5-V is powered by the twin-turbo 3.0L V6 LGY engine rated at 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated exclusively to GM’s 10-speed automatic transmission. Our model drives the rear wheels, though all-wheel drive is optional.
Our 2021 Cadillac CT5-V is coated in Rift Metallic – an optional ($625) color that’s new for the 2021 model year and one that’s also exclusive to the CT5-V. The interior is finished in Sedona Sauvage with Jet Black Accents, which is exclusive to the Platinum Package.
Our tester is loaded to the brim with nearly all the options, including:
Premium Package ($5,290):
- Lighting Package
- Illuminating front sill plates
- LED front cornering lamps
- Navigation & Bose Premium Audio Package
- Cadillac user experience with embedded navigation
- Bose Performance Series 15-speaker premium audio system
- Wireless Phone Charging
- Climate Package
- Heated driver and front passenger seats
- Automatic heated steering wheel
- Ventilated driver and front passenger seats
- Technology Package
- 12-inch diagonal HD color reconfigurable driver cluster
- Head-Up Display
Platinum Package ($6,290):
- Ultraview Sunroof
- Semi-aniline leather seats
- Parking Package
- Air Ionizer
- Power tilt and telescoping steering column
- Rear Camera Mirror
- Rear Pedestrian Alert
- HD Surround Vision
- Surround Vision Recorder
- Hands-Free Decklid Release
- Outside heated power-adjustable, power-folding mirrors
- Automatic Parking Assist with braking
Driver Assist and Advanced Security Package ($1,950):
- Auto seat belt tightening
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Steering column lock control
- Locking fuel door
- Door lock and latch shields
- Locking wheel lugs
- Enhanced automatic emergency braking
- Self-powered theft-deterrent alarm system
- Vehicle inclination sensor
- Vehicle interior movement sensor
- Reverse automatic braking
Driver Awareness Plus Package ($500):
- Intellibeam auto high beams
- Following distance indicator
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
All that comes out to a $47,795 standard vehicle price plus $14,495 in options, for a total vehicle price of $63,445.
In fact, the only options that our 2021 Cadillac CT5-V tester doesn’t have are Super Cruise and all-wheel drive, though – for obvious reasons – we prefer the rear-drive setup here in Miami.
So, if there’s anything you want to know about the Cadillac CT5-V beyond the specs, ask us in the comments section below, and we’ll reply as soon as possible.
Ready… set… go!
Subscribe to GM Authority for more Cadillac CT5-V news, Cadillac CT5 news, Cadillac news and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
Alex – certain forum members berate the CT-5 as having a “Chevy” interior. Can you provide support for such statements or is the CT-5 on par with BMW, Mercedes and Audi?
Personally I like the simplicity of the latest Cadillac models. Especially love the open pore wood that is optional on select models and curious if your test car includes that feature. If so, add interior pics please.
Great question. Some back-story here: I’m coming from two ATS sedans as my two previous personal vehicles. I have also shopped the entire segment, including C43, M340i, S4 and S5. I found all of these lacking, for one reason or another, so I ended up not buying either. In any event, the interior of the CT5-V I’m driving is on par, if not better, than those offered in the competition. Some of my notes about the CT5-V’s cabin thus far:
– Everything (yes, literally, everything) looks and feels great to the touch.
– The center stack execution is the best I’ve used in a long time – both functional and elegant.
– Cabin is vault-like quiet, even at high/er speeds.
– All buttons and controls look and feel great.
– No squeaks or rattles.
– In-vehicle tech is awesome, especially the new digital gauge cluster/instrument panel.
– Extra-thick steering wheel delights the senses.
The vehicle I have has a gorgeous carbon fiber trim and I’ll include the pics in a subsequent article. The wood on Lux/Premium Lux models that you’re referring to is also very classy and pleasing.
The cabin in this vehicle is light years ahead of that of my previous ATS, which had a decent (yet not class-leading) cabin. The only thing that I like better in my ATS is the rear-seat pass-through for my hockey sticks and golf clubs, which allows me to carry four passengers along with these objects (without folding down one of the rear seats).
In conclusion: anyone that likens the cabin of the CT5 to anything “Chevy” is simply out of touch with reality.
Whoever thinks otherwise should do the following experiment: take a regular person, someone who doesn’t know that GM is behind both Chevrolet and Cadillac (in order to any potential eliminate bias). Then, put that person in a CT5, and then into a Malibu or a Blazer. That person will see the Cadillac as a completely different and more upscale vehicle, which it is.
Thanks for the question!
Thanks for the detailed response Alex. Greatly appreciated.
I’m especially excited to see the details in the upcoming BEVs as they look incredible.
What is the Rift Metallic like in person? I’ve yet to see this color in anything other than photos. I have a Summit White CT4-V, that I love, but the color is a bit on the boring side.
If Rift is anything like my white diamond XTS, it might cause me to take the plunge.
David – Rift Metallic is an interesting color. It’s mostly white, but it has some silver to it as well.
Joe – if White Diamond is what you’re after, you might want to look at Crystal White Tricoat, which is also available on the CT5.
I saw a Rift CT4V in person. It’s a light tan. The Rift name and V only make it seem
more interesting than it looks. It doesn’t seem sporty to me. It is something like the
old White Diamond. Some people might think you have a fade white car.
I have Summit White CT4V, which I chose to be a bit different, since it is new to
Cadillac. I had a Crystal White ATS. I prefer that color of white.
Alex Luft,
Im going too bite ! After all I feel as GMC Fan is targeting me anyway, Ha, Ha.
GM IS, IS getting better !! At least from a STEP vehicle PLAN !! It USED to be the ONLY GM PLAN that was PROVEN to WORK !!
You are NOW correct, GM has remover ANY and ALL options on a plain Chevy, that would move it into a Cadillac class vehicle.
HOWEVER, this WAS NOT the case a short wile ago !!!!!
The ONLY close dollar Chevy, to your $63,000.00 Cadillac, is NOW a Traverse at $51,000.00,or you pop over into the full-size, say Tahoe at $63,000.00.
So here it goes !!!!
What do you drive now ?
Still an ATS ?
You said ” your two previous ” vehicles.
WE are right here with you.
We STILL have our ATS, as the CT5, we feel, is STILL a CHEAP Chevrolet with a Cadillac badge ! ( two buyers opinion, with cash in hand )
Sure I agree, compering this Cadillac to the Blazer and Malibu, it is better yet it is more, they are worse !
Now I agree with the fact that the Chevys are worse, Chevys are supposed to be worse. Chevrolet is and was supposed to be the every mans car, the grocery getter, and has been for years in the GM lineup.
Where gm has failed, AND WELL KNOW IT now !!!! is in the step up, and the free profit.
GM FAILED here with Cadillac, and were JUST SO, SO, SO, close in failing with Denali !
gm is NOW well aware that the US buyer any way is NOT going to pay for a sticker ANY LONGER !
gm has reaped the badge profit, right up to the end of gm as we know it.
Now we just bought a new Envision as you probably know. Avenir trim !
The cabin of this $43,000.00 vehicle is, what did you say, like a vault quiet.
It has a beautiful, interior, for a cheap mid class gm vehicle !
If you took this very 2021 Envision interior, and placed it into the very CT5 vehicle you are driving, THEN do your driver comparison test. Then add the same digital, driver cluster to that, you STILL are not even close to the $63,000.00 for a RWD vehicle ! Add AWD to that vehicle, so we can own one in SD and you are no where near 63,000.00 ! Now up to 67 ish, for 70 we can get the Yukon Denali ! and in our opinion puts to shame this CT5 interior. Yet you well know WE WILL NOT drive a Full-sized vehicle for a grocery getter.
My hope is two things here with GM.
I hope GM FINEALLY realizes that the buyer of a luxury class interior, truly wants one.
I hope gm puts a luxury class interior, in an ICE, midsized GMC Denali vehicle, for the next go around.
OR an option to above, puts the TRUE luxury class interior, of the CADILLAC, CADILLAC, TRUE CADILLAC, vehicle, the Escalade, into ALL Cadillac vehicles, and there would be an ICE choice for us there.
Otherwise, we have no where to go, and this will make many here happy, as gm will truly have nothing in there lineup any longer for us.
Again Alex, what was it you drive now, personal vehicle ?
Making an EV Cadillac CT5, in its current form, would NOT bring a NEW Cadillac buyer !
ITS a Cadillac for xxxx sake !
MAKE IT ONE !!!!!
Ok, I’ll play. For the sake of sanity, I’ll dissect your comment one-by-one.
1. “You are NOW correct, GM has remover ANY and ALL options on a plain Chevy, that would move it into a Cadillac class vehicle.”
Incorrect. You can still get almost, if not all, the options on a Chevy that you can also get on a Cadillac. HD surround view? Check. A modern, state of the art rear seat infotainment system? Check (not on sedans, obviously). The latest active safety features, both basic and advanced? Check again. (before you take to your keyboard, Super Cruise is coming to Chevys).
2. “The ONLY close dollar Chevy, to your $63,000.00 Cadillac, is NOW a Traverse at $51,000.00,or you pop over into the full-size, say Tahoe at $63,000.00.”
How is this relevant to literally anything?
3. I also fail to see how what I drive now is relevant to the conversation at hand. But okay, if you want to know, my personal vehicle is a C7.
4. “We STILL have our ATS, as the CT5, we feel, is STILL a CHEAP Chevrolet with a Cadillac badge ! ( two buyers opinion, with cash in hand”
Literally no idea what you’re talking about here. Please specify exactly what you mean by cheap and “still a cheap Chevrolet with a Cadillac badge.”
Either you’re trolling or you don’t understand what you’re talking about. The CT5 is a completely different vehicle from anything sold by Chevrolet today.
To give you some idea, the CT5 is an upgrade over the ATS in every sense of the word and in every single area (the aforementioned lack of rear-seat passthrough being the only exception).
5. The rest of your comment is more along the lines of what I am addressing in #4 above. Without more details, I really don’t understand what you’re going on about. You bring up GM’s full-size SUVs and the new Envision. Not sure any of that is relevant. Why don’t you bring up the vehicles the CT5 actually competes with? Have you driven them? If you had, you would quickly realize that the CT5 is on par or better than the competition. It’s literally that simple.
Alex,
Hey thanks for dissecting that for me !
#2 up there is the MOST relevant of ALL !!!!
2. “The ONLY close dollar Chevy, to your $63,000.00 Cadillac, is NOW a Traverse at $51,000.00,or you pop over into the full-size, say Tahoe at $63,000.00.”
How is this relevant to literally anything?
Answering your question, —– It is the most relevant, because gm is just discontenting the Chevrolet lineup, as so the Cadillac is now top ! And for sure in this segment.
When gm removed the Impala from the Chevy lineup this took away the equal optioned equal priced vehicle ( sure one FWD one RWD, but each to their own )
LOOK, is gm not removing the 2.0T from the Equinox ?
Your d4m right they are !!!!
WHY are they ?
Because you can get the top Chevy Equinox, the SAME price ish as the XT4, OR CHEAPER !
So instead of improving the Cadillac lineup —- NOPE gm in its wisdom just removes CHEAPENS up the Chevy lineup even more !
LOOK, you can no longer get apples to apples on a Chevy to this CT5 vehicle !
You wanting me to compere the CT5V to the SUV Blazer or Mailbu, is no different than I compering the CT5 to the Yukon Denali.
You are literally saying, you customers should compare a $40,000.00 Chevy to a &63,000.00 Cadillac.
Compare a $60,000.00 Cadillac to a $60,000.00 Chevy ! or GMC ! or Buick !
Apples to Apples
I / WE feel the CT5 is a CHEAP Chevrolet for the year 2021 !
In the year 2014 our ATS was nice in the interior !
The door panels are soft touch !
Even inside the pocket on the door panels are soft touch !
Just one thing of many age wise to age wise !
And we HAVE driven them !
Sure not the 3.0TT, as our closest dealer STILL does not stock one !
The CT5 drives great !
So does our ATS !
So does a Chevy Camaro !
But in our opinion, the interior comfort is NO BETTER, and we DO NOT LIKE the Chevy look, or CHEAP look !
OK don’t call it a Chevy look then, Just call it a cheap look !
Seriously, EVERY sense of the word, AND EVERY area, but the pass though ?
Please dissect. EVERY.
Because, again, to me, the function of the CT5 is LEAPS and BOUNDS ahead of the ATS, YET NOT leaps and bounds ahead of the SAME Chevrolet or other GM option functions, ( its GM, the options when available are the SAME functionality )
AND the LOOK of the interior, is a ” each to their own ” opinion.
AND ours is CHEAP !
AND we do NOT feel the same about the Escalade !
Please ask yourself, WHY is the Escalade, interior, true luxury !
And the CT5 is NOT the same ?
Please ask yourself, WHY is the NEW Lyriq interior, true luxury ( from what we have been shown )
AND the CT5 is NOT the same ?
And please, I AM HAPPY for those who love this vehicle !
More money for gm to push around.
Its just NOT for US !
I’m with Alex, you don’t seem to have a clue what you’re talking about. Are you trying to compare the CT5-v to a Yukon Denali based on pricing? Well, they have 4 wheels.
These are completely unrelated vehicles and Sensible folks don’t compare.
I agree, they are different vehicles, sure.
But you can not compare CHEAP, to expensive !
You just can NOT !
LOOK, You could compare the Equinox to the XT4, last year —- OK !!!
NOT this year !!!!!
Did the Cadillac get better ?
H3LL NO the Cadillac did NOT get better !!!
You can NO LONGER GET the 2.0T 9 speed in the Equinox !!!
Yet you watch the Envision, and the XT4 sales over time.
NOBODY in their right mind would buy the CHEAP Cadillac XT4 over the Envision Avenir !
Nobody who drove them !
Apples to Apples !
Just because GM has eliminated ANY other vehicle from their lineup to compare APPLES to APPLES, does NOT make this vehicle not CHEAP in the interior !
In my opinion !
You are literally trying to tell folks to compare a FWD based CHEAP Chevy SUV to a 3.0TT Chevy ALPHA !!!
Lifelong – you have failed to answer my question: what exactly do you believe is “cheap” about the CT5-V?
I am not looking for an endless tirade about Chevrolet, Buick, or whatever else, with no point or purpose. Please reply with a direct and succinct answer about what it is that you find “cheap” in the CT5 / CT5-V.
Alex – The interior !
One small simple answer.
The Interior is CHEAP !
I will not go on !
On this point !
The Cadillac interior, is CHEAP, in relation to the true Cadillac interior that is in the Cadillac, CADILLAC Escalade !
And in relationship to that !
This Cadillac interior is CHEAP !
When the Cadillac, CADILLAC Celestiq is released.
It should have this interior ?
Is that what you are saying ?
I wonder if this will look CHEAP to you then ?
Or will I read a post from Alex Luft, and he will be saying
” I wish this Celestiq, interior was as great as the CT5 V ”
GM will LOVE to here you tell them that !
YOU see, and YOU know, that is WHY I am here !
Otherwise GM would NEVER spend money on a better interior !
Because you and others KEEP telling them that it is ” GOOD ENOUGH “
If you’re going to obsess about improving Cadillac interiors, kindly divert your attention away from Escalade to Elmiraj. If Cadillac is expected to aim higher, so must its fans and potential buyers.
Idiot Boy,
Yeah, you get it, I think ?
Yes the Elmiraj WAS a great CONCEPT Cadillac vehicle and Interior WAS in the correct direction !
I prefer the Escala CONCEPT direction,!
Color options needed etc.
AND I also realize Alex and GM have to sell the ” place holder ” FAILURES of Cadillac !
The ONLY reason, ONLY one:
That I am compering the Escalade here IS the escalade IS ON THE ROAD !!!
YOU CAN BUY an Escalade !
gm CLEARLY KNOWS the Cadillac interiors, and ALL of GM interiors in the upper to higher trim offerings LACK GREATLY !!!
The new Suburban line – upgrade !
The new Yukon line – upgrade !
The Yukon Denali – upgrade ! EVEN HIGHER !!!!
The new Escalade – upgrade ! EVEN HIGHER !!!!
The new Buicks – upgrade ! Avenir trim – EVEN HIGHER !!!!
This Cadillac CT and XT interior battle is OVER !!!! They have LOST !!!!!
The next Cadillacs will be UPGRADE —– or ——- GONE !!!!!!!!
There is no debate here.
It is well known that the last of the BLAH Cadillacs are place holders !!
Cadillac will succeed in EV with a better interior.
Cadillac will be sold and then get a better interior under better management.
Cadillac will be gone, a beacon of what GM greatness once was.
And ALL of the above, will be WITH a BETTER interior !!!
NOT a ” GOOD ENOUGH ” CHEAP Chevrolet interior !!!
“The Cadillac interior, is CHEAP, in relation to the true Cadillac interior that is in the Cadillac, CADILLAC Escalade !”
1. Despite all the ranting and raving, and the mile-long comments, you have failed to get to brass tacks: what, exactly, do you think is “cheap” about the CT5’s interior?
2. In bringing up the Escalade, you’re comparing the interior of an entry-level sedan (CT5) to that of flagship SUV. What’s the point?
Strip out all the grandstanding in your comments and you end up this: the Escalade costs twice as much as the CT5. One would hope it has “better everything” compared to the CT5.
Alex Luft,
Yes and above you were telling people to compare the entry level Chevy Blazer to the Cadillac CT5 !
Your words copied !
Whoever thinks otherwise should do the following experiment: take a regular person, someone who doesn’t know that GM is behind both Chevrolet and Cadillac (in order to any potential eliminate bias). Then, put that person in a CT5, and then into a Malibu or a Blazer. That person will see the Cadillac as a completely different and more upscale vehicle, which it is.
Brass Tax.
It is the same as a Chevy, just laid out differently !
Equally priced gm vehicle, of ANY gm badge !
I thought you were the dissector here ?
Brass tax, what here is BETTER than the EQUALLY priced GM ?
( remember the Denali lineup will have the super cruise soon also )
Dissect it:
Infotainment screen of equal GM value ?
Gauge cluster, does Chevy offer an equal ANY MORE ?
Seats of equal GM value ?
The Brass Tax here is, gm has REMOVED ANY gm vehicle of equal cost/ value to compare, and it should !
GM should have NEVER sold a Chevy with the same as the Cadillac, yet this Cadillac in the interior is NOT better of equal cost !
The Yukon Denali, from an EQUAL COST stand point ( BRASS TAX ) is EQUAL to this with the same options !
I am talking INTERIORS, NOT total vehicle !
Strip out the brown color stain on the end of your nose and you come to the same conclusion.
You are giving a BIAS review.
And thats OK.
Its your site .
Its your opinion.
Its my opinion, as a true Cadillac customer equal to every other true Cadillac customer here ( excluding all the brown colored noses ) GM ” people”
Like I have said before, I have to grandstand !
Like I have said before, I have to rant !
Like I have said before, I have to ramble on !
I am one of the few Customers here !
The other x number we all know !
The same people !
GM dealer ” people ” !
BIAS opinions !
Brass Tax !
Get out in the real world of vehicle customers, you will see !
I am on the pages, are you ?
I do not see you there !
GM already has too many being counters!
When it comes down to brass tax…
Cadillac seriously needs to broaden its appeal to malapropists
My god…you talk too much.
Why do hate GM products and keep buying them?
If you don’t like them, that’s your opinion.Wait and try another Brand to make your life simpler/maybe?
Zcat,
It is true !
You see though, I am just one of a FEW here that are a TRUE customer of GM !
85% or MORE of people here are in a relationship with GM !
Sell parts for GM or install GM parts !
Sell gm vehicles OR own a GM dealership !
So when gm says they listen to their customers, this is simple NOT TRUE !
HOW, HOW is GM listening to their customers ?
GM has said very, VERY,” VERY ” many times that gm’s eyes and ears to their customer is through their independent dealerships !
if 85% of the dealerships are on here telling GM that their interiors are ” GOOD ENOUGH ” that is what GM hears, gm hears that, do you get it YET ? gm hears that !
This very, VERY thing happened and is happening at gm NOW !
And you ALL know it !!!!
gm is telling their designers and engineers and EVEN THE BEAN COUNTERS,
SPEND THE F)CKING MONEY AND BUILD BETTER INTERIORS !!!!
And gm IS, they ARE !!
WHY are they ?
PEOPLE LIKE ME !!!!
PEOPLE !!!
CUSTOMERS talking and typing OVER the 85% dealer voice !
Its your F)CKING JOB, to TELL gm what the customer WANTS !!
NOT what YOU as a dealer think YOU can make the most profit off of.
WHAT THE CUSTOMER WANTS !!!!!
This site just reported that the Escalade was one of the fastest sellers ( interior )
RAM pickup sales jump ( interior )
WHY is there going to even be a Wagoneer ? CHEAP gm ( interiors )
GM will get it right.
BUT NO THANKS TO YOU !
NO THANKS TO THE DEALERS that have RUINED Cadillac !
Zcat, take the gm buyout, or PLEASE stop telling GM that the Cadillac is ” GOOD ENOUGH “
Look at the gm ” real people ” ads !
gm went around and asked ” real people ” if they liked their gm vehicles.
If the customer DID like their gm vehicle, that person could be in a tv add.
What about the thousands of customers who did NOT like that gm vehicle.
What was the reason ?
CHEAP interior I bet was HIGH on the list !
IT IS COMMON KNOWLEDGE, in the circle of gm customers !!!
gm HAS CHEAP interiors, its common knowledge !
The first defendant response was and is well thats because gm is focused on the drivetrain.
That defense STILL ADMITS that the gm interior is CHEAPER !
The customer has just settled on ” o well my gm interior is CHEAP ”
Get it YET Zcat ?
————————– S T O P ———————————
Telling gm that their interiors are ” Good Enough ”
AND FOR SURE ON A CADILLAC !!!!!!
And Zcat,
Once again, remember !
I DO NOT HATE GM PRODUCTS !!!!
THAT IS WHY I BUY GM PRODUCTS !!!!!!
I THINK GM HAS CHEAP INTERIORS !!!!!!!!!!
“I THINK GM HAS CHEAP INTERIORS !!!!!!!!!!”
I have spent a substantial amount of time shopping, researching and driving the vehicles in the segment in which the CT5-V competes. Having just concluded 8 days with the CT5-V shown in the article, I did not find a single thing that would support your point of view that the interior is “cheap.” To the contrary, it’s quite the opposite.
To add to that, everyone who saw the car, sat in it, and rode in it was impressed with the vehicle and its interior.
Bottom line: your opinion does not match reality.
Do the same 8 days in a new Yukon Denali !
The overall INTERIOR price !
Of these two vehicles !
From the rear seats forward !
IS APPLES TO APPLES !!
Bottom line : that is reality !
GM no longer has any vehicles in this segment.
Alex,
Ill let you and your gm dealer buddies praise each other now.
But that is a h3ll of a post up above !
Thanks !
Lifelong – you are a hoot!
First off, the only reason I brought up the Blazer is to prove just how wrong you are about calling the CT5 a “Chevrolet with a Cadillac badge.” Accept your error and move on.
Worse yet is that you didn’t even get your own argument: the Blazer starts at $29K, while the CT5 starts at $37K. That difference of $8K is insignificant compared to the $30K difference between the CT5 and Escalade. Looks like you got lost in your argument.
Here’s another one of your gems…
“Get out in the real world of vehicle customers, you will see!
Once again, you’re off. I am as “in the real world” as it gets, having worked in every tier of the auto industry, including for an actual automaker, consulting for a supplier, at dealers, and in media. I live and breathe this industry every single day. Now, what’s your resume look like? For your sake, I sure hope it’s better than how you write your comments! I really do hope that you’re not considering being “on the pages” as professional experience.
Additionally, your brown-noser comment is weak and out of line. It’s typically when folks don’t have a strong argument that they start reaching for insults. And just because your opinion doesn’t align with mine doesn’t make anyone biased. Again, let’s see your industry experience!
Back to the matter at hand: I have asked you several times now – what exactly do you think is “cheap” about the CT5’s interior. You have yet to answer that very simple question, despite having four opportunities to do so.
The only logical conclusion here is that your rants do not align with reality and you have no real argument. Good. Day. Sir. 😉
I’m not going to disagree with you on some of those matters. But I would just like you to tone it down a bit. Although that’s subjective. I’m not one here to tell you how much to babble.
I’ve read a lot of your posts. And for someone who claims you love GM, everything you say is negative. And, I agree. Maybe you have a point?
I agree with you, they could do better especially on the interiors and the engine choices. But for someone who claims to be a GM fan, I’ve never heard one positive word out of you. And that’s OK. We each have our opinions and, yes, I get it.
I get it. Get it? Yes GM could do better I’m not sure what’s holding them back?
Now let’s lay this to rest and be adults.
Have a great night!
Sounds great Zcat !
And some positive !
My 2020 HD Denali is a GREAT truck !
MOST of my GM vehicles have been GREAT vehicles !!
WHY do I drive GM ?
I feel OVERALL, gm STILL produces the best vehicle ( if you choose correctly )
I was BURNED by a liar, a gm dealer service liar !
And this is my 2 cents to that !
There is NOTHING ELSE you can do, at a gm level !
When gm f0ckes you over, it is over at gm, I am one of so, so, many millions and that equals the billions gm has to spend.
IT was GM choice, I called them, they could care less !
I still prefer GM vehicles of choice, like I said, we just bought a new 2021 Envision and :
—————– COULD NOT BE HAPPIER ————————
YET is has a WAY, WAY, WAY better interior than the CHEAP XT4 interior !
AND it IS apples to apples !!
Positive, MOST of my GM vehicles I have had GREAT overall cost of ownership !
Got it!
I’m glad you’re happy with your GM vehicles. As much as you complain, I realize you just want them to do better. I can’t argue with that. Too many being counters in the room. Just like in the 60s,If they wanted to, They could knock it out of the park. But I agree with you. Some of the Fisher-Price interior materials need to go bye-bye.
Dear Alex,
Thank You for a precise description of the interior quality. It matters for me much since GM is a retarded and chaotic company and it takes much time until I see a CT5V in person on European soil imported by a die-hard US-car fanatic (GM prefers to offer it in Japan with a steering wheel on the wrong side of the car).
Almost all the YT reviewers I watched praised the interior somehow quite many of the written reviews give it mixed notes. Recently I read thedrive CT5V review where they wrote ‘Leather and its simulacrums are abundant, but so is textured hard plastic, which feels on loan from one of GM’s weirder show trucks. Add in patches of carbon fiber and the result is a mishmash of finishes and textures that form no coherent aesthetic.’ I wish there was a YT channel where different reviewers share their opinions and prove their points. I would like to see You there together with that guy talking about CT5.
All the best
R.
I have ordered a 2021 CT5-V Rift metallic and wanted to know if you could describe the color of Rift metallic in the sunlight….colors tend to look a little different from small paint samples in showroom to outside on the complete coverage of the whole car
Thanks Greg
Just one question: can I borrow the keys?
But seriously, that’s a good price for all of that kit.
Is it still a Bose stereo or the new AKG?
Bose, at least for 2021. But 2022 might be a different story…
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2021/02/gm-appears-to-be-migrating-cadillac-from-bose-to-akg-audio/
Also, if I were buying this for myself, I would probably do without the Platinum Package, although the surround vision is a great feature to have.
Thanks for the question!
Like the looks of it.. Question, Why was 3.0 TT de tuned 40HP?
Well, it wasn’t so much that it was de-tuned as that the 3.0L TT in the CT5-V (LGY) is a different engine from the 3.0L TT previously used in the CT6 (LGW).
To your point, the LGY is down on power compared to LGW, but it does feel a bit more refined, for what it’s worth.
From what I hear, there were packaging constraints on cooling the LGW, hence the LGY.
Thank you…
If the CT5 replaces the ATS, what, if anything, replaces the CTS?
The CTS was being indirectly replaced by the CT6, albeit with a different approach.
But given the discontinuation of the CT6 in all markets except for China, there currently is no replacement for the CTS.
CT4 replaces the ATS. CT4 is 4″ longer.
CT5 replaces the CTS. CT5 is 2″ shorter.
Whatever trim (Sport, V) or option (Prem Lux) that has the seats with the thigh
extenders are the seats you want, especially if you are big/tall.
No Art. It’s not like that at all.
The CT4 moves down a segment and becomes a C-segment entry while the CT5 takes the position of the old ATS as the D-segment entry. There is no replacement for CTS.
Have you driven the CTS V-Sport? If so, how engaging and refined the CT5-V is compared to the CTS V-Sport? I understand that both compete in different segments but which styling do you prefer, the V-Sport or the current V model?
I don’t know Alex’s answer to this question, but if you haven’t checked out Car and Driver’s Lightning Lap article on CT5-V, it did the lightning lap FASTER than the 2014 CTS Vsport, and was in the ballpark of the 2nd Gen CTS-V, and not far behind the Hellcat, so to all the people whining that it wasn’t a legit V, uhhh, yeah, sounds like a great track car.
Car and Driver raves about both the CT5-V and the CT4-V at Lightning Lap. So, anyone looking for track capable sedans in this price range should be very happy with them.
Thanks for looking out. It’s been awhile that I read the Lightning lap in Car & Driver and I read every vehicle that was in the Lightning Lap class. You are right that C&D raved about the V models. Some vehicles they did not seem to care much.
Johnls_39 Thanks for the question! Yup, I have driven the CTS V-Sport for roughly a month, and have roughly six months’ of experience with a 2016 CTS 3.6 on top of that.
Compared to the CTS V-Sport, the CT5-V feels a bit more eager to be driven aggressively. That’s saying a lot, since the CTS V-Sport excelled in that department. The CT5-V has a different personality, drives “smaller” and is more “tossable.” The CT5-V also does a very satisfying backpressure release at each gear shift (during hard acceleration) that is very, very satisfying and contributes that different (more aggressive) personality. And when it comes time to just cruise, it does it in much the same way as the CTS V-Sport – quiet, comfortable and composed.
@Bobby – thanks for the info about Lighting Lap!
Does it have an ambient light?
Hah. Yes it does, and it’s very well-done – similar to the third-gen CTS. I’ll have photos shortly.
U mean there is only one color? That sucks.
OK, ill wait thanks.
What kind of times does the CT 5 V get from 0 to 60?
I am waitlisted for the black wing and not sure I will get one
I got 5.0 and 5.2 seconds in 85 degree weather and high (Miami) humidity. I also could have optimized the launch a bit more, so maybe it could have been faster still.
That said, this car is quick. The way in which it’s quick, however, is very different to that of the CT5-V Blackwing (going off experience in the third-gen CTS-V). Clearly, the Blackwing will be even faster than the CT5-V, but it will also have that V8 rumble that the “regular” CT5-V doesn’t have.
What I will also add is that the CT5-V is a car that is easy to drive fast and be fast in on the road. By comparison, my personal car (C7 Grand Sport) needs more work to drive fast on the road and is also substantially less refined. All of that flips when at the track, however… but that’s another story.
Are there other V models coming!?!?! With the other manufacturers producing vehicles like the Ford Explorer ST, Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, Jeep Trackhawk, and Porsche Cayenne and Macan Turbos, Cadillac (and other GM Divisions for that matter… new Trailblazer SS, Blazer SS) need to join the party here….jeeezzz. What is taking so long? Please tell me when I can order a XT6-V or little awd twin-turbo Trailblazer SS pocket rocket….
Sincerely,
Waivering Diehard GM Fan
Are those 19″ rims, and how is the ride? Looking for smooth on the highway. Wonder if it differs from the 3.0 Premium?
Yup, those are 19s on Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The ride is smooth on the highway, especially with the car in Tour mode. Even though that’s a ZR-rated tire that’s also a run-flat, the car does ride well on the highway and around town. The highway drive is also very quiet and composed. It might go without saying, but I recommend setting the vehicle to “Tour” mode for the most serene highway driving experience (the engine holds the gears in Sport and Track modes).
Have they mentioned coefficient of drag for various trims?
My ATS’ heated seats take a super long time to warm up. Can you test that function while the weather is still cool?
Well, the article points out they’re testing it in Miami so probably not the climate to test out heated seats, regardless of time of year.
When will the ct5 v ,with supercruise become available ,l have been waiting since l put my order in ,which was July of 2019?
I put mine in January. They were starting production of them and then the chip crisis hit. I think we will see them in June if the factory re-opens first week in April and are able to be at full capacity.
Good Luck – to both of us…..
I have a 2020 CT5-V. The heated seats are a little faster than previous GM vehicles I’ve owned. They’ve always been slow since they have to accommodate the seat ventilation as well. These ARE better, though still slower than “heated only” seats.
Are there two different V6 engines available for the CT5?
It’s one engine – the twin-turbo 3.0L V6 LGY with two different outputs:
1. CT5-V – 360 horses, 405 pound-feet of torque
2. CT5 Premium Luxury 550T – 335 horses and 405 pound-feet of torque
Hello, Can the CT5-V, when ordered with the all-wheel drive option, be combined with the Magnetic Ride Control option, as well as the high performance brakes and other high performance components if offered? If the car can be equipped this way, please confirm the engine specs. with all-wheel drive, ie. engine H.P./Torque @ ? R.P.M.? Lastly, is the all-wheel drive a permanent function, like Subaru, for example, or, a rear wheel drive bias with the front wheels responding in slippery conditions, on demand? Any answers to this inquiry would be greatly appreciated, thank you!
I own a 2020 CT5 – V With all wheel drive. It comes standard with performance traction management, a “V”mode with which you can configure your own settings for steering, suspension, traction management, etc. Yes, the V model does have magnetic ride control, brembo brakes, And mine was optioned with 19” diamond cut wheels.
To the earlier question about ride quality, it rides very nicely in touring mode. Not floaty, but responsive and appropriate for this class of car, and never harsh. I traded in an ATS premium with 6 speed manual and 2.0 Turbo engine. That car rode roughly, was a great handler, but the 35 series tires (run flats) were not forgiving. The CT5 – V with all seasons rides comfortably, but also can absolutely handle corners like you would expect a V car to do. Sport suspension setting firms things up about 15% , but it’s still does not beat you up over the bumps. It really is a great ride and handling compromise.
I also have a ’20 CT5-V AWD. The difference with mine though is that it came with the “Summer-only Performance tires.” Everything Bob Pritchard said about ride, performance, equipment, etc. I completely agree with. The one difference being the Summer-only/run-flat Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires on mine have incredible grip (On par with the ’17 Camaro 2SS I had) but when the roads turn slick, the car definitely gets parked & my 4X4 truck comes out.
I’m shopping for a CT5-V to replace my 2016 Corvette convertible.
I would like Super Cruise for road trips.
1. Does the one you are driving have Super Cruise ?
2. Do you know why Super Cruise is so difficult to find at dealers?
I really like convertibles.
3. In your opinion will their be a CT4-V or CT5- V convertible? Or, coupe?
Gar:
1. Super Cruise became available to order starting late December – early January. There are already several units on the ground, according to the inventory search tool on Cadillac’s website.
2. Likely because it launched later on in the 2021 model year, and had a relatively short production run prior to the plant switching over to 2022 MY.
3. Unfortunately, the CT4 nor the CT5 are planned to get a two-door variant to our knowledge. See this article for more info:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2019/12/the-cadillac-coupe-is-sadly-no-longer/
Since you’re coming from a Vette, I understand your position, since my daily is a C7 Grand Sport (coupe). I would love to see a Coupe and Convertible variants of the CT5.
Thanks for the questions!
Alex, thank you for your insight. Really appreciate your knowledge of all things GM, and specifically Cadillac.
It’s my pleasure! Reach out with anything else, I’m always happy to answer questions and talk GM and Cadillac!
Alex-
If my ct5 V with Supercuise has not started production yet will I be getting a 2021MY OR 22MY ?
Thanks for your insight.
I have secured one of the first 250 CT4 v Blackings’ and am excited to see more information on it. I tried for one of the CT5’s but did not make it into the 3 min. window. So now I am curious about the difference in size between the two. I have not owned a Cadillac for over 20 years and hope I won’t be disappointed by the size of the CT4. My last fun car was the 2010 Camaro SS.
The white FL plated car with silver wheels is pretty gorgeous as is the cinnamon metallic one in the pics collage. Just need someone well connected to crusade for moving the Auto Stop/Start disengage button to the thumb position on the shifter so disengagement becomes a natural extension of shifting into Drive.
How do the various engine volumes sound – Stealth, Tour, Sport, Track? Is Stealth relatively quiet? I’m an old guy, I like the power but don’t need to advertise it to everyone around me!
When the car starts up, it is a bit loud but then settles down within 15 seconds or so. In touring mode and under regular acceleration, inside the car you will definitely hear the exhaust sound. When in track mode, it gets pretty loud inside when you step on the gas… I cannot answer to what sounds like outside of the car, though, I suppose I will have to have someone else drive the car as they drive by and I can tell you better.
Kurt – there are two things taking place in regards to sound: what takes place outside the car and what takes place inside.
Outside the car, there are two settings: dual mode exhaust valves closed (tour mode, snow/ice mode) and dual mode exhaust valves open (sport and track modes). Here’s an overview of the start-up and some brief revs in each mode:
https://gmauthority.com/blog/2020/04/listen-to-the-cadillac-ct5-v-rev-and-snarl-video/
2. What takes place inside the car is a bit different, since sound is piped into the car via speakers. Here, the amount of sound increases with each driving mode.
As Bob mentioned, a cold start is where it’s the loudest at idle. After the engine settles down, it purrs quietly until you switch modes and open up those exhaust valves. In Tour, it’s quiet and refined.
The coolest thing is the backpressure release sound made during gear changes at wide open throttle. We’re working on a video of that and should have it shortly.
Thanks for the question!
Thanks Alex. I downloaded a copy of the Owners manual and under Engine Sound it lists “Stealth” mode under Driver Modes. Does this mode really exist; have you tried it? As I stated in my original post, I’m an old guy, I like the power but don’t need to advertise it to everyone around me!
Kurt – yup, Stealth is a thing. If memory serves me right, it’s an exhaust mode, rather than a drive mode.
I could hear no significant difference between Stealth and Tour inside the vehicle, though it’s possible that Tour pipes a little bit of sound into the cabin via the speakers, while Stealth doesn’t pipe anything in.
From outside the car, Stealth and Tour sound the same (valves closed).
I have great expectations with this car. It’s beautiful, well positioned, the LSY 2,0 is not that bad and the LGY 3,0 is really nice. I sat in one Sport last year, and the interior is nice but not luxury at U$50,000 (although far far better than a Malibu).
I’d like to ask if you really felt the LSY is more refined than the previous (and more powerful) 2,0. I drove both CT5 and ATS and the only difference I felt was the power.
Thank you.
From my brief experience with the CT4/5, the interior is along the lines of BMW and Audi. Very reserved, but quality. Mercedes is a little over the top for me. I think it compares very well IMHO.
@Sigurd well, the model I drove is the CT5-V with the 3.0L TT V6 LGY, not the 2.0L turbo LSY.
The last time I drove a CT5 with the LSY, it did feel a bit more refined than my old ATS with the LTG. The LTG certainly made more power, but refinement wasn’t its strong suit. I didn’t notice a big difference in power, at least from a subjective stand point.
As for the interior, it’s very much in line with the segment expectations of luxury and does many things better than some rivals.
I’ve read it is the 3,0, such a nice engine. Thank you, Alex.
One other thing Alex,
As an ATS owner and Cadillac enthusiast, would you rather have the CT4-V or CT5-V. I spend a lot of time in these cars and for me the CT4-V felt like a more enjoyable daily driver. My only complaint is that the engine/exhaust sounds from the CT5-V are far superior but other than that I love it.
David, I’ve been wondering this myself for a while now. I like both the CT4-V and CT5-V, but as of right now, I would go with the CT5-V for the following reasons:
1. Considerably more power for not that much more expense.
2. Much better exhaust and engine note (as you mentioned).
3. The CT4 has an issue wherein the driver’s right knee rests against the center tunnel/console trim. That trim material is hard (as opposed to soft), resulting in considerable amounts of discomfort. This is something that might be unique to me and my seating position, so it might not apply to all.
That said, if #3 would get resolved, my position would likely change. But as it stands right now, I just could not buy the CT4 (in any guise) due to the knee rest situation.
Thanks for the question!
I need to test drive one. I prefer smaller cars and that knee issue would be a shame. The HP is fine for me.
Alex. Thanks for all your informative information. Not everyone agrees. And that’s OK. No one is right or wrong, they just have their opinion.
I believe that everyone has a right to their outlook on anything. Whether it be cars, furniture, wives… Let’s skip that one for now!
But I do know that I appreciate all your knowledge and informative information that you supply. And I really don’t care what anyone else thinks. That’s not my job to judge.
When can I purchase the black wing that’s not a black wing?@blunder
What a weird combo. Build a special engine only to throw it in the dumpster and then name a car after something that it is not. I don’t run a company, but I don’t think that makes much sense. Read the last line slowy?
Down voters without a response are cowards. At least give me a reason to understand your point of view. If you’re smarter than me, I don’t care. At least I will understand your perspective. And maybe even learn something.
I don’t really think in terms of the Blackwing engine going in the CT5-V, but rather, when I think of that engine, for a company that everybody says pinches pennies, why would GM spend SO much money on a clean sheet engine design, R&D, testing, etc. then only put it in a limited number of CT6-V’s before scrapping it? It MUST have been a HUGE expense. I don’t get it…
Alex Luft,
I DO appreciate what you do here !!
I DO, very much !
I DO like reading your and the other gm dealer reviews of GM vehicles !
I DO like the ” first scoop ”
And I DO like this CT5 !
Like I have said before, we would own a CT5 Premium Luxury Cadillac with the 3.0TT, IF the interior, was BETTER !
We hoped, it would be !
We waited, and waited yet, not for us ! Our opinion !
Same with the XT4 !
Waited, was hyped out of this world by gm !
And WHAT A LET DOWN FLOP !!!
The XT4 was even WOSE than this, with the BLAH 2.0T ONLY !!!
AND WE LIKE BOTH of the EXTERIORS of these vehicles !!
gm was JUST TO CHEAP !!
IN OUR OPINION !!!
Keep up the good work !
You are in control here !
Is there an unused tire well under the trunk floor cover? No place to put a spare is a deal breaker for me.
Thanks for the article. My CT5-V AWD in Wave Metallic W/SuperCruise has been on order 6 weeks now, the plant shutdown obviously is slowing things down. Going from a 2018 ATS to the CT5, I’ve driven 3 CT5s and 2 CT4s, looking very forward to this new vehicle.
What are you thinking of MagneRide 4.0 in everyday use?
Sorry. I know that sucks.Hopefully, things will get figured out when you get the ride you deserve.
Thanks for the down votes,boys.
Now let’s be real men and tell me why.
It’s easy to hide behind and the one click thumbs down button.But let me hear what you have to say.
My ears are open. No, I do not have all the answers. I just stated what I believe. Now you state what you believe instead of taking easy way out. I won’t judge if your opinion is different than mine. That’s normal and I respect that.
I ordered a CT5V in January now my production date is May 20th and I feel if I get the car in June you might as well tag it a 2022. Why such a long wait ? Just got my new 2021 Corvette 2 weeks ago and ordered it after the CT5V. Please help and explain.
Wasn’t there a news story on here recently about some sort of production slowdown at Lansing, Grand River?
I know last year it took something like 7 months to get my ’20 CT5-V, but, or course, that included a plant closure for Covid.
We will know more in about 3 weeks. The factory should re-open first week in April. I ordered mine in January. if you want a 2022 you won’t see that until at least Sept/Oct if all things are up and running. if you ordered Super cruise it might be longer. ( as per the dealer) I ordered super cruise on my V so i am just holding tight. there are good group of V’s out there but none of them were configured the way I did mine so I am just waiting……The dealer thinks the only changes on the 2022 might be the upgraded sound system as mentioned earlier. Not worth waiting another 3 months or more for me.