In the world of modern high-performance luxury sedans, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing stands out. Not only is it the most track-capable production vehicle to ever wear a Cadillac badge, but with a supercharged V8 under the hood and a six-speed manual as standard, the CT5-V Blackwing sticks to the old-school formula when it comes to the speed-based thrills. Now, a new comparison test pits the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing against two heavy-hitting European rivals, including the Audi RS 7 and BMW M5, and in the end, gives the Caddy the W.
In a recent comparison from Car and Driver, the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing makes a case for itself as a driver’s car, sticking with rear-wheel drive and the supercharged 6.2L V8 LT4 engine, good for a total of 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque. While its competitors employ advanced all-wheel-drive systems and electrified powertrains, the Blackwing is the lightest and the most analog, traits that ultimately help it edge out its more technologically complex rivals.
As for the competition, the Audi RS 7 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0L V8 and all-wheel drive rated at 621 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, while the BMW M5 is fitted with a twin-turbocharged, hybridized 4.4L V8 and all-wheel drive rated at a combined 717 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque.
Inside, all three vehicles pack modern digital displays and premium materials, while the Cadillac offers a more focused, straightforward setup that complements its performance mindset. The Audi’s clean interface is praised for ease of use, while the BMW’s complex system reflects its high-tech approach.
Performance testing reveals some important distinctions. The Cadillac, which is equipped with the optional Precision Package, impressed with its sharp handling and lively rear-wheel-drive dynamics. The Audi was noted for its stability and accessible performance, while the BMW, despite its immense straight-line speed, felt less agile due to its higher mass.
On twisty mountain roads, testers praised the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing for its communicative steering, suspension upgrades, and charismatic engine. It was also the only contender that made drivers feel directly connected to the road – a key advantage in an era increasingly dominated by digital interfaces and hybrid systems.
In the final verdict, the 2025 CT5-V Blackwing is given the win, proving that raw dynamics and driver involvement still matter. Despite lacking some of the advanced technology found in its German competitors, the Cadillac delivers unmatched fun and authenticity – a throwback that can still go toe-to-toe with the future.
Comments
I sonwish THIS car was out pre-covid. It would have sold very well, and not been “price-hiked” into oblivion! This is a ZL1 that can comfortably sit 4 people. Just what I need to cruise up and down interstate with the family. Right now though, the prices are still out of control…..
Get one while you can.
I bet prices go up next year on it too.
And GM/Mary will get rid of it for a boring EV. This company cant do anything right outside of Corvette.
yall hating because im right.
Yeah Cadillac great job
The base interior still looks like a slightly upgraded Malibu. None of the dealers around here order them with the interior upgrade, so it’s hard to know what it looks like in a plusher format.
I absolutely love my ’24 CT5-V Blackwing. I bought the automatic cuz I’m old and don’t want to row my own gears anymore. About a month ago I did the Cadillac V-Performance Academy, where I found out the car is capable of both thrilling and terrifying things. PLUS I drove mine down there and actually got 24.5MPG on the trip! (It’s rated at 21MPG highway)
Very nice!! I’m kinda jealous! Enjoy it and drive it. Congrats
Mary is Killing ALL divisions with this SUV AND EV theory
Just bought a 2025 stick before they are gone. The new interior is excellent and the facelift is great too. The dynamic welcome lights are so cool.
Since GM ROYALLY screwed over Holden, causing its demise, why can’t they send these weapons over in RHD configuration to appeal to the masses?