Despite some initial uncertainty over the future of the nameplate in the U.S., the Cadillac CT5 will indeed offer a 2026 model year, as GM Authority covered previously. That includes its most extreme performance variant – the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, one again offered as the most track-capable production vehicle that Cadillac has ever built. Notably, the CT5-V Blackwing will also offer additional standard features for the 2026 model year.
Headed into the 2026 model year, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing will now include the content of the Parking Package (RPO code Y6L) as standard equipment. Previously offered as a $710 option for the 2025 model year, this package incorporates a few notable enhancements, such as (relevant RPO codes listed in parentheses):
- Air filter (K6L)
- Air quality sensor (USK)
- Rear Camera Mirror (DRZ)
- Hands-Free Decklid Release (TL3)
To note, selecting the Carbon Fiber Package 2 (RPO code CFV) will remove the Hands-Free Decklid Release feature.
For those who may have missed it, the 2025 model year introduced a significant mid-cycle refresh to the CT5 lineup, including sharper exterior, an overhauled cabin with a 33-inch digital display, and several other advanced tech features, such as the GM Super Cruise hands-free driving system and an AKG premium audio system.
Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the CT5 remains uncertain in the U.S., as General Motors is expected to convert its Lansing Grand River Assembly plant, the same plant where the CT5 is built, into an EV production facility. Additionally, CT5 sales in the U.S. have been in decline, with 14,861 units sold in 2024, as compared to 18,593 units in 2023 and 15,896 units in 2022.
Mechanically, the 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is once again motivated by the supercharged 6.2L V8 LT4 gasoline engine, which delivers an impressive 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque. The GM six-speed manual transmission is standard, while the GM 10-speed automatic transmission is optional. The GM Alpha 2 platform serves as the underpinnings.
Comments
The reason the CT5 isn’t selling is the same reason the CT6, CTS and XT5 didn’t sell in the US. Cadillac doesn’t ADVERTISE!!! And the very few ads you see are really bad. I’m a retired Advertising Executive and I’ve bought or leased 20 new Cadillacs over the past 45 years. I know the product and I know advertising. Cadillac builds good cars and they’re a good value compared to the European competition, but nobody knows about them because they are not promoted. I’ve had people walk up to me in a parking lot and say, that’s a beautiful car. What is it? It hurts me to say it, but after 45 years of Cadillac loyalty and 20 new Cadillacs I will probably switch brands. I’ll probably try an Audi next.
Wait… You’ve figured out that Cadillac is a beautiful car and a good value, but you’re going to switch to an Audi because… they don’t advertise enough?! I don’t get it…
This website claims that the ICE CT4 and the ICE CT5 will be discontinued after 2026 or 2027 model year and will be replaced by more expensive EVs, GM’s policy for the past 32 years is to discontinue products once they get them right, so can you blame Frank Ricciardi for switching brands.
I purchased a 2025 ct5 350T and really like the car so far. Performs very well for 2.0L turbo all the power i need and handles great.. a real pleasure to drive and love the style.. A+ Cadillac
This is Mary Buick Envision Made in China-Barra’s pricing policies, eliminate all products she dislikes like the CT4 and the CT5 by not advertising them and replacing them with products that will cost at least $20,000 more. GM’s stock price needs to drop below $30/share in order to get Mary Buick Envision Made in China-Barra fired.
Make the magnetic suspension standard again- like in the CTS. MMSSA? Oh yeah I’d like full size adults in the back seat too so maybe all that power attached to a CT6 would be the real deal. Extended range fuel tank… and a locking fun safe .. America.
Oh yeah and add some wood and light leather interior options – not brain surgery
Do you also want curb feelers, vinyl roof, and perhaps a continental kit?