Overview
The 2025 Cadillac CT5 spans an extraordinary range — from a $41K practical luxury sedan to the $95K Blackwing that beats BMW M5s on track at $20K less. Few nameplates in the world cover this much ground.
The CT5-V Blackwing is consistently ranked among the world's top 3 performance sedans by automotive journalists — yet most consumers aren't aware it exists. If you want the most for your performance sedan dollar, this is it.
2026 Trims & Pricing
CT5, CT5-V, and the ultimate CT5-V Blackwing.
Full Specs
| Spec | 2.0L Turbo | 3.0L V6 | Blackwing SC V8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP | 237 hp | 335–360 hp | 668 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 405 lb-ft | 659 lb-ft |
| 0–60 | ~7.1 s | ~5.1 s | ~3.6 s |
| Transmission | 10-spd auto | 10-spd auto | 10-spd auto or 6-spd Manual |
| Top Speed | ~130 mph | ~155 mph | 200 mph |
Blackwing Performance
EPA highway rating measured at 55 mph. Real-world highway at 70 mph is typically 30–32 mpg. Towing near max capacity reduces highway fuel economy 20–30% — budget accordingly for trailer trips.
CT5-V Blackwing: $94,990, 668 hp, manual available. BMW M5: $115,000+, 617 hp, no manual. For driving purists who want the engagement of a manual at max power, there is no alternative to the Blackwing anywhere in the world.
The CT5-V Blackwing's supercharged 6.2L V8 delivers 668 hp and 659 lb-ft — the most powerful Cadillac sedan ever built. Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, Brembo 6-piston front brakes, and an available 6-speed manual create a driving experience no European competitor matches at the price.
Daily Luxury
The CT5 Premium Luxury and above feature the 33-inch curved display — standard. At $52,990, this makes it arguably the best-value luxury sedan for screen-focused buyers.
The base CT5 with the 2.0L turbo is a refined daily sedan — the 33-inch curved display is class-leading, the interior quality above average for the segment, and fuel economy at 22/32 mpg FWD is reasonable.
Manual at 668 HP
Offering a manual transmission in a 668-hp sedan is Cadillac saying: we build cars for drivers, not just passengers. This single feature has generated more positive automotive press coverage than any other Cadillac decision in a decade.
The 6-speed manual Blackwing is a deliberate product decision by Cadillac — acknowledging that driving enthusiasts want the engagement of a clutch pedal, regardless of how fast the auto is. Porsche dropped the manual from the 911 Turbo. BMW dropped it from M5. Cadillac kept it, and enthusiasts around the world have noticed.
Reliability
CT5 reliability is solid. The 3.0L twin-turbo V6 is proven. Blackwing's supercharged V8 requires premium fuel and regular supercharger belt inspection, but is reliable when properly maintained.
| Area | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo I-4 | Good | LTG engine proven; reliable with regular service |
| 3.0L TT V6 | Good | Proven performance V6; reliable with premium fuel |
| 6.2L SC V8 | Good | Supercharged; reliable; service supercharger belt 60K |
| Magnetic Ride Control | Good | MRC shocks proven over many applications |
| 33-inch Screen | Average | Complex; OTA fixes needed; improving over time |
| Overall | Good | Above-average performance sedan reliability |
Consult Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and NHTSA for the specific model year you are considering. Build year matters significantly.
Recalls
Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls using your 17-digit VIN. New recalls are issued regularly — check before any used vehicle purchase.
Recent Updates
Pros & Cons
$94,990 vs $115K+ BMW M5 for comparable/better track times
33-inch curved screen standard on Premium Luxury
Super Cruise available across the lineup
Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 outstanding ride/handling balance
2.0L base underpowered for the price
Interior below BMW 5 Series at base level
Limited European/global dealer coverage
FAQ
Accessories & Upgrades
Popular upgrades and accessories for the Cadillac CT5. Links are Amazon affiliate — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
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Head-to-Head: CT5-V Blackwing vs BMW M5 vs Mercedes-AMG E63
The CT5-V Blackwing competes directly against the BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E63 S — Europe's benchmark performance sedans. Here's how the numbers and the experience compare at 2025 pricing.
| Spec | Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing | BMW M5 Competition | Mercedes-AMG E63 S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $94,990 | $120,700+ | $113,000+ |
| Engine | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Horsepower | 668 hp | 617 hp | 603 hp |
| Torque | 659 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft | 627 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph | ~3.6 s | ~3.3 s (M xDrive) | ~3.3 s (4MATIC+) |
| Top Speed | 200 mph | 190 mph (limited) | 186 mph (limited) |
| Manual Transmission | ✓ 6-speed available | ✗ Auto only | ✗ Auto only |
| Nürburgring Lap | ~7:28 | ~7:32 (M5 CS) | ~7:45 |
| AWD Available | ✗ RWD only | ✓ M xDrive AWD | ✓ 4MATIC+ AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 14/21 mpg est | 13/19 mpg | 15/23 mpg |
| Adaptive Suspension | Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 | M Active suspension | AMG Ride Control+ |
| Hands-Free Highway | Super Cruise (optional) | ✗ Not available | ✗ Not available |
| Warranty (powertrain) | 5yr / 60K miles | 4yr / 50K miles | 4yr / 50K miles |
| Price vs Blackwing | $0 (baseline) | +$25,710 | +$18,010 |
The CT5-V Blackwing costs $18–$26K less than its European rivals while delivering more horsepower and the only available manual transmission in the class. BMW M5 wins on all-weather AWD grip and brand prestige. Mercedes-AMG E63 wins on interior refinement. The Blackwing wins on value, character, and driver engagement — especially with the 6-speed manual. For buyers who prioritize the driving experience over the badge, the Blackwing is the rational choice.
- Cadillac Media; NHTSA; Motor Trend; Car and Driver; EPA fueleconomy.gov
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