What We Love About the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

The Blackwings have arrived. And more than one model too. For 2022, the Cadillac CT-4 Blackwing and the Cadillac CT-5 Blackwing debut, representing the highest expression of Cadillac performance anywhere. The CT-4 is a compact model, the CT-5 is midsize. Both serve as halo models for GM’s luxury brand. We recently spent a week with the 2022 Cadillac CT-4 Blackwing; here are the features we love most about this vaunted sedan.

Cadillac Branding

Just as M is to BMW, AMG to Mercedes-Benz, and F is to Lexus, Cadillac has its own high-performance nomenclature in the Blackwing.

Notably, the name represents the pinnacle of Cadillac performance, but that’s a recent change. Previously, the V-Series was the apex predator, followed by the V-Sport. However, this year, the V-Series replaces the V-Sport and the Blackwing name takes over the top.

For Cadillac enthusiasts, Blackwing originally meant something else. Specifically, a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that powered the Cadillac CT6 briefly then retired. The name, though, caught on and apparently was too difficult for Cadillac to ignore. Consequently, it has been reassigned as a sub-brand and that’s how we will describe it.

Cutting-Edge Exterior

There is nothing mundane about the CT4-V. On the flip side, it isn’t overwrought with styling cliches. But, oh that wing out back…More about that briefly.

For the Blackwing, Cadillac made important changes, including adding a front splitter, skirting, side breather ports, and sporty wheels wrapped within performance tires. Also, the color schemes are fetching. Our test model in Electric Blue was simply stunning. The rear lighting elements match the front with boomerang lights. Moreover, a diffuser demonstrates that this sedan means business, but it is the sizeable carbon fiber wing that supplies the ultimate statement. Raw. Powerful. Energetic.

Subtle, But Refined Interior

Overwrought Cadillac interiors are long past. These days, the marque shines best with interiors that mimic the Europeans: understated elegance, refinement, and stellar fit and finish. The CT4-V shines with all three.

The cabin seats five on paper but is ideal for two. Another two can fit in the back provided that limited legroom is not a deal-breaker. Forget the middle spot as it is too narrow and boxed in by the drivetrain hump.

Leather with twin stitching, soft-touch materials, and metal trim pieces dominate the interior. Additionally, our test model offered optional high-performance seats. They’re extra bolstered and stiff, thus they’re not for the faint of heart.

Safety and Technology Features

A raft of safety features accompanies the CT4-V Blackwing. For instance, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change alert, and side blind zone alert come standard. Also, this model has forward collision alert, following distance indicator, front pedestrian braking, and automatic emergency braking.

The Blackwing comes with an 8-inch color display and Cadillac User Experience (CUE) integration. Also, a 15-speaker AKG audio system fills the cabin with a concert-hall experience. Satellite radio, HD Radio, and a pair of USB ports come standard. Wireless Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay smartphone integration are included. Finally, Bluetooth connectivity, an SD card reader, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability are standard.

Ultimate Power

Even when the current CT4 was known as the ATS, there wasn’t a model as powerful as the Blackwing. Certainly, the ATS-V came close with its 464 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque, but not quite. For the CT4-V, the power quotient is now 472 horsepower with torque unchanged. Furthermore, you might not notice the difference when driving the two, but it is there.

Power routes to the wheels utilizing a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 10-speed automatic transmission. For the automatic, that is two additional cogs than what the ATS-V had. Unquestionably, the difference is subtle but perhaps noticed best when operated in sport mode with the paddle shifters working.

We Want More

Good thing for enthusiasts, the Blackwing sub-brand covers two models. Both are sedans and like the competition, spilling over to utility vehicles is always possible. But unlike Mercedes-Benz and BMW, Cadillac’s utility vehicles are front-wheel drive. Thus, the dynamic would be different, closer in line with how Audi approaches the market.

We also know that the Blackwing line is short-lived. This is the final hurrah for Cadillac’s current crop of sedans before transitioning to electrification. Doubtlessly, the changes coming will be significant and high-performance petrol models won’t be a part of it.

If you want a 2022 Cadillac CT4-Blackwing, the price starts at $59,995 plus tax. Be advised that this rear-wheel-drive-only model can cost far more. Ours topped $76,000 with carbon fiber treatments heading the options list.

2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing Specifications

Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Statistics assembled by Tom Keegan.

See Also — Cadillac’s Sedans Pack a Powerful 1-2 Punch

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