mobile-menu-icon
GM Authority

Why Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Precision Pack Gets Magnetic Ride, Not Dynamic Spool Dampers

For those Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing customers that want to take their high-performance to the track, the new Precision Package is a must. Recently introduced for the CT5-V Blackwing’s 2025-model-year refresh, the Precision Package includes several components designed to enhance the go-fast Caddy’s handling prowess at the limit, with MagneRide dampers headlining the list of upgrades. That said, some fans may be wondering why the Precision Package includes MagneRide rather than Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSV) technology. Now, GM Authority has an answer.

GM Authority Executive Editor Alex Luft recently spoke with Cadillac executive chief engineer Brandon Vivian, who provided some insight on the issue. During the interview, Luft asked if Cadillac’s development team had considered DSSV technology for the Precision Package, rather than MagneRide.

“DSSV is a great technology. I’ve worked with MultiMatic in developing that for use here in our off-road trucks, but it just doesn’t have the adaptability that MagneRide has,” Vivian told GM Authority. For readers who may be unaware, GM’s DSSV dampers are supplied by MultiMatic, and can be found in-use with several high-performance GM models, including the Chevy Camaro ZL1 and Chevy Colorado ZR2.

The front end of the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing.

However, according to Vivian, MagneRide was the suspension technology of choice as it was a better fit for the CT5-V Blackwing specifically. Although the CT5-V Blackwing offers impressive performance, the sedan must still maintain a high degree of comfort and luxury, especially compared to models like the Camaro ZL1 and Colorado ZR2.

“MagneRide is far superior in adapting to make it a luxury car and an ultimate performance car. So DSSV has its place, but not when it comes to being the ultimate in luxury and performance,” Vivian said.

For those readers who may be unaware, GM’s Magnetic Ride Control technology incorporates a monotube damper filled with magnetorheological fluid that can be magnetized to create a fibrous structure inside the damper, resulting in stiffer suspension. Meanwhile, DSSV dampers replace the shims of a conventional damper with a pair of spring-loaded cylindrical sleeves, or spool valves, which provide greater control of the force-velocity curve, while decoupling the compression and rebound curves for independent tuning capabilities.

Under the hood, the CT5-V Blackwing is motivated by the supercharged 6.2L V8 LT4 gasoline engine, while the GM Alpha 2 platform provides the underpinnings. Production takes place at the GM Lansing Grand River plant in Michigan.

[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”1363″ display=”basic_thumbnail” thumbnail_crop=”0″]

Jonathan is an automotive journalist based out of Southern California. He loves anything and everything on four wheels.

Subscribe to GM Authority

For around-the-clock GM news coverage

We'll send you one email per day with the latest GM news. It's totally free.

No Comments yet

Leave a comment

Cancel