Cadillac's been in the business of making some seriously fast sedans for over a decade, but none has ever been as cohesive and deeply impressive as the 2024 CT5-V Blackwing. It's a comfortable, powerful and great-handling sedan. And if you needed a bonus, the Cadillac even comes with a six-speed manual transmission. Only an excess of budget-minded plastic and a small trunk are any real demerits.Read full review
Josh Jacquot is a seasoned automotive journalist with a career spanning more than two decades. His passion for cars has been the driving force behind his career, fueling his love for storytelling and technical work. Josh has held staff positions at Edmunds and Car and Driver, where he performed instrumented testing and wrote everything from technical breakdowns to long-form adventure stories. This hands-on enthusiast's early fascination with cars evolved into a professional journey that blends his technical knowledge and deep appreciation for engaging driver's cars.
11/20/2023
As the torchbearer not just of GM sedans but also of American luxury cars, the CT5-V Blackwing needs to be special. It needs to be alluring in its driver engagement. It needs to be rapid. And it needs to be priced right. Fortunately, it is all those things and more. Cadillac's flagship sedan has something no other car in this class offers: three pedals. And between those pedals, the gear lever, monster grip and a world-class chassis, this supersedan isn't just the only one offering a manual transmission. It may also be the best one.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.95 per gallon for premium unleaded in Wisconsin.
Edmunds spotlight: It's not only about the numbers
With the proliferation of speed through mega-power gas engines and ultra-quick EVs, something essential has gone missing: fulfillment. Driving a car hard should be rewarding. And it should be fun. When it becomes only a numbers contest or relies on the party trick of a brain-crushing launch to do its bidding, we know we'll be left wanting. In those moments we lean on cars like the CT5-V Blackwing to remind us how much more there is to driving than just putting your foot down and shuffling the wheel.
Competitors to consider
Like the Blackwing, the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E 63 S and Audi RS 7 Performance all have power numbers starting with a six. They all deliver torque to all four wheels. And they all get to 60 mph quicker than the Blackwing. They all cost more, too. And none offers the Cadillac's sheer appeal to a dedicated driver.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
Driven, tested, rated by automotive expert Kurt Niebuhr
Senior Vehicle Test Editor
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
We drove the 2024 Cadillac CT5 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Performance
9/10
How does the CT5-V Blackwing drive? The CT5-V Blackwing might not be the fastest sedan in the class but it is the most fun to drive. Our test car was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and we were able to rip to 60 mph in 4 seconds flat and fly through the quarter mile at nearly 124 mph. The optional 10-speed automatic promises to be even faster. As you'd expect from a large supercharged V8, power is everywhere and the Blackwing is fast no matter what gear you're in. Speaking of gears, the six-speed manual transmission is arguably one of the best manual transmissions on sale today, offering quick, positive shifts with automatic rev matching if you so desire.
Braking and handling are equally as impressive. Panic stops from 60 mph were done in a scant 104 feet and the Cadillac pulled a heroic 1.08 g on our skidpad — both of those numbers best the results of the potent Audi RS 7. But the steering feel and performance-oriented stability control systems are better still, allowing the CT5-V to be driven aggressively but with delicacy and precision. Drivers of all skill levels will be impressed and engaged.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the CT5-V Blackwing? One of the hallmarks of the CT5-V is its adaptive suspension, known as MagneRide. Ride quality and body control are deeply impressive, and for all the performance offered up by the Cadillac, the ride is never uncomfortable. Likewise, the front seats manage to balance support and comfort, and we had no issue putting in a full day's worth of driving without an ounce of discomfort. The heated and ventilated seats work quickly and effectively.
The same can be said for the climate control. There was no issue in warming or cooling the cabin quickly, but we think the control buttons are a bit small and close together, but that's splitting hairs. Adding to the comfort is a quiet and well-insulated cabin. You'll have to be at full throttle to really hear the Blackwing's massive V8 engine, but even then it's a refined and powerful sound befitting a luxury performance sedan. There's a bit of road noise due to the performance tires but that's to be expected.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The Cadillac lacks the style panache of the Audi RS 7 and BMW M5, but with its mix of analog and digital controls, the CT5-V Blackwing will be a more familiar experience for many drivers. The instrument panel and infotainment system are both easy to read at a quick glance. Our only real gripe is the somewhat befuddling steering wheel controls that plague all Cadillacs.
The CT5-V Blackwing is still a sedan, so it's easy for people of all ages and body types to slide into the comfortable seats. Only taller rear passengers might need to mind their heads. The front seats are well bolstered, supportive and comfortable over long distances, and the driver will enjoy highly adjustable seating and steering wheel positions. Visibility out of the front is excellent, and thanks to the slim profile of the front seats, it's quite good to the sides as well. The sloping roofline does pinch visibility out the back, but the optional digital rearview mirror helps to reduce blind spots.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $7,884 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $7,884 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the V Blackwing trim.
2024 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing pricing in Madison, WI
How’s the tech? In a segment known for complex and sometimes intimidating infotainment systems, the Cadillac offers a straightforward and user-friendly interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wireless, are easy to pair, but some of our staffers preferred the Cadillac's graphics to their smartphone interface. Standard issue on the CT5-V Blackwing is a 15-speaker AKG audio system, which is good enough to not leave us wanting for an upgrade. The Cadillac's voice controls were less impressive, occasionally flubbing simple commands, but were far from a letdown.
While the head-up display lacks the pizzazz of its German rivals, the advanced driver aids were just as good as anything else in the class. If you opt for the manual transmission, be aware that adaptive cruise control is not available.
Storage
7/10
How’s the storage? Storage might not be the first thing on a buyer's mind with a car like the CT5-V Blackwing, but it should be noted that at 11.9 cubic feet, the Cadillac offers far less trunk space than the M5 (14 cubes) and even the smaller M3 (13 cubes). That said, the cargo area of the CT5-V Blackwing is uncomplicated and will hold suitcases without having to be creative with how you arrange them.
Interior storage isn't particularly generous either, especially around the manual gear lever. There are enough options for smaller items, like sunglasses and access cards, but larger water bottles and anything other than basic personal effects won't have a lot of places to fit. If you've got kids and use car seats, the CT5-V Blackwing has enough room in back to handle car seats of all sizes.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
6.5/10
How economical is the CT5-V Blackwing? The EPA estimates the manual-equipped CT5-V Blackwing gets 15 mpg (13 city/21 highway), and during our time with the Cadillac, we had no problem matching and exceeding those numbers. Our test vehicle had the manual and returned a solid 18 mpg across our 115-mile evaluation loop. And on longer highway drives, we even exceeded 24 mpg in the Blackwing. Be aware: We also saw fuel economy dip under 5 mpg when it was driven aggressively during a track day.
Value
8/10
Is the CT5-V Blackwing a good value? If you value performance and the sheer joy of driving over luxury, the CT5-V Blackwing will seem like a bit of a bargain. Starting at around $85K, the Cadillac undercuts cars like the BMW M5 and the Audi RS 7 by tens of thousands of dollars and offers similar performance as well as the nearly extinct option of a six-speed manual transmission. However, when fully optioned, the CT5-V Blackwing is knocking on $120K and buyers with that kind of money might balk at the Cadillac's generous use of Chevrolet quality plastics and other shared parts from much less expensive vehicles.
At six years/70,000 miles, Cadillac does offer a stronger powertrain warranty than its German competition as well as offering the same coverage for roadside assistance. One year of free maintenance is included.
Wildcard
10/10
If you don't like what the CT5-V Blackwing has to offer, you might want to look into buying a bus pass. Blending comfort, usability, performance and the option of a terrific six-speed manual transmission, this Cadillac is simply one of the best sport sedans ever built. A grown-up enthusiast's car if there ever was one, there's a level of maturity at play here that is difficult to comprehend but is readily apparent after only a short time behind the wheel. Capable of crushing a thousand miles of highway driving or all day at a racetrack, the CT5-V represents the high water mark for the American sport sedan.
Which CT5 does Edmunds recommend?
The CT5-V Blackwing comes in a single trim with a 668-horsepower reactor under the hood. Besides a few options, you'll have only one real choice to make here: manual or automatic. We say go with the manual. The few tenths you lose to 60 mph will be more than made up for by the enlivened driving experience. Well, that and the knowledge that you're driving the only manual-transmission-equipped supersedan remaining in the world.
These Are the Best-Performing Cars We’ve Ever Tested | 0-60, Quarter Mile, Handling & More
Here at Edmunds, we love performance cars — and over the years, we’ve tested some seriously impressive machinery. In this video, Edmunds’ Casey Goode tells you all about the best-performing vehicles we’ve had down at our track, including the test numbers they laid down.
Vibrates the left, right or both sides of the driver's seat to alert you to things such as the direction of approaching traffic while reversing.
Teen Driver
Monitors driving habits, prevents the disabling of safety features such as stability control, and lets parents limit the stereo volume.
Adaptive headlights
Swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
5 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
9.5%
2024 Cadillac CT5 First Impressions
by Edmunds
•11/20/2023
What is the CT5?
If you're in the market for a midsize luxury sedan, the Cadillac CT5 might catch your eye thanks to its sharp design and wallet-friendly price tag. The CT5 undercuts German rivals by five figures, while more competitively priced Japanese rivals are either ancient (Infiniti Q50) or ride on a less dynamic front-wheel-drive-based architecture (Acura TLX). When you consider these strengths along with user-friendly tech and the awesome hands-free Super Cruise driving suite, the CT5 starts to make a lot of sense.
Provided you specify it correctly, that is. Standard versions of the CT5 are quite nice to drive, especially if you opt for the turbocharged V6. Downsides include subpar materials quality and a smaller-than-you-might-expect interior, but it's otherwise a competent sporty sedan. If you have a need for speed — and a healthy budget — the top-dog CT5-V Blackwing is absolutely worth a look. Its thunderous supercharged V8 is a joy to behold and puts serious German metal like the BMW M5 and Audi RS 7 on notice. Skip the midtier CT5-V (also called the V-Series) entirely, however. It makes too many compromises to be an enjoyable everyday sport sedan.
Edmunds says
The Cadillac CT5 is a fine midsize sedan, provided you order it in the right spec. It doesn't offer the refinement or passenger space of its rivals, but you might be able to forgive these shortcomings due to its very competitive price.
FAQ
Is the Cadillac CT5 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 CT5 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.4 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the CT5 has 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Cadillac CT5. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Cadillac CT5?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Cadillac CT5:
No significant changes for 2024
Part of the first CT5 generation introduced for 2020
To determine whether the Cadillac CT5 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the CT5. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the CT5's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Cadillac CT5 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Cadillac CT5 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 CT5 and gave it a 8.4 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 CT5 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Cadillac CT5?
The least-expensive 2024 Cadillac CT5 is the 2024 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $93,495.
Other versions include:
V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M) which starts at $93,495
If you're interested in the Cadillac CT5, the next question is, which CT5 model is right for you? CT5 variants include V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M). For a full list of CT5 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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