Cadillac Unveils CT5 and CT4 'V-Sport' Models - Tries to Call Them V-Series

On May 30, Cadillac finally unveiled the V version of the, not yet on sale, CT5. They also took this opportunity to debut the next sedan in the line-up, the CT5’s baby brother, the CT4.

Now, Cadillac will say that these are V-Series. Don’t buy that hype.

These V’s are straight down the middle the ‘V-Sport’ versions of both cars. The CT4, essentially an ATS replacement, is packing over 140hp less than the ATS-V it replaces. The CT5 is packing is down 285hp from the CTS-V it replaces. Both are packing turbo engines, (a 2.7L inline-4 and 3.0L V-6 respectively). They are also automatic (10-speed) only and available in both rear and all-wheel drive.

Additionally, Cadillac rebranded the CT6 V-Sport as the CT6 V-Series - showing in no uncertain terms that Cadillac is changing what V-Series means in their line-up…a step up from the Sport trim while not packing the track-ready credentials that have been the hallmark of the V-Series since the very first model (the 2004 CTS-V).

Now, as V-Sports, these are solid entries. But we can’t wait to see the CT4-V that brings the missing power to bear and comes with a manual (a true ATS-V replacement). The CT5 should also get a true V-Series trim in the future, probably packing the Blackwing V-8 and well over 500hp - though we’d prefer to see something well over 600 since that is what we enjoyed in the last CTS-V. Chances are that both of the ‘real’ V-Series trims will be rear-drive only…unless Cadillac decides the all-wheel drive BMW M5 is worth matching feature for feature.

But, the communication from Cadillac could have been significantly clearer than what they chose to put forward this time.

Read on for the press release:

Driven by Cadillac’s latest turbocharging technology and building on more than 15 years of performance credentials, the first-ever 2020 CT4-V and CT5-V were unveiled today, expanding choices for the brand’s V-Series performance sub-brand.

Following the 2019 CT6-V, they grow the V-Series family with even more levels of performance, while preserving the lineage established by the original V-Series lineup introduced in 2004.

“The new V-Series sedan lineup defines modern sophistication by combining luxury appointments with thoughtful technology and athletic refinement for the discerning enthusiast,” said Brandon Vivian, Cadillac executive chief engineer. “We are inviting even more customers into the V-Series family by adding a new level of elevated performance between our Sport models and the ultimate, high-performance track capability that the V-Series has grown to represent.”

The first-ever CT4 and recently introduced CT5 represent Cadillac’s realigned sedan portfolio, characterized by new proportions, innovative technologies and more appearance and performance choices. Each is built on Cadillac’s award-winning rear-wheel-drive Alpha architecture, with the V-Series models developed to deliver the ultimate blend of performance, presence and road-going refinement.

Both share the latest standard V-Series performance technologies, including Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, which is tuned specifically for V models to enhance comfort without sacrificing performance-oriented responsiveness, and drive modes that include new V-Mode personalization. Each model is available in RWD or AWD and features a 10-speed automatic transmission, Brembo front brakes with eBoost electronic assist and a limited-slip rear differential on CT4-V and electronic limited-slip differential on CT5-V.

Cadillac’s exclusive Super Cruise1, the first true hands-free driver assistance feature for the freeway, is available on more than 130,000 miles of limited-access freeways in the U.S. and Canada. It will be available on both new V-Series models.

“The new lineup expands the V-Series ethos, drawing more customers into the Cadillac Performance family, and the newest Vs are focused on elevated athleticism and luxurious refinement for customers wanting a dynamic daily drive,” said Mark Reuss, GM president. “And this is only the beginning of the V family. Cadillac’s passion for performance shines on a racetrack. Stay tuned.”

Vehicle highlights
CT5-V — The first-ever CT5-V builds on the precision-focused details of the all-new luxury sedan introduced earlier this year to offer elevated road performance and an engaging driving experience.

Powered by Cadillac’s high-output 3.0L Twin Turbo V-6 engine, which uses low-inertia turbochargers to enhance power production across the rpm band. It is rated at a Cadillac-estimated 355 horsepower (265 kW), pending SAE certification.
10-speed automatic transmission.
Electronic limited-slip rear differential.
Standard RWD and available AWD.
V-Series performance chassis with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0.
Performance Traction Management.
Vehicle Control Mode with customizable V-Mode.
Brembo front braking system.
19-inch wheels and summer-only performance tires2 (all-season tires available with AWD).
Dark exterior accents and V-Series mesh grilles; unique rear diffuser and quad exhaust tips.
Super Cruise1 available.
Unique performance persona instrument cluster and V-Mode steering wheel control.

CT4-V — Developed for a new generation of sedan customers, the first-ever CT4 blends nimble handling and Cadillac’s signature technology. The CT4-V takes these traits further, infusing the brand’s racing DNA for a dynamic, responsive and exhilarating driving experience.

Powered by Cadillac’s high-output 2.7L Turbo engine featuring a unique three-step sliding camshaft that helps optimize performance at all speeds. It is rated at a Cadillac-estimated 320 horsepower (239 kW), pending SAE certification.
10-speed automatic.
Limited-slip rear differential.
V-Series performance chassis with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 (on RWD) or ZF MVS passive dampers (on AWD).
Vehicle Control Mode with customizable V-Mode.
Brembo front braking system.
18-inch wheels and summer-only performance tires2 (all-season tires available with AWD).
Near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution for an exceptional feeling of balance and control.
Dark exterior accents and V-Series mesh grilles; quad exhaust tips, unique rear spoiler design that helps reduce rear lift while increasing grip for the rear tires.
Super Cruise1 available.
Unique performance persona instrument cluster and V-Mode steering wheel control.

MORE TO COME
The CT4-V and CT5-V go on sale early in the 2020 calendar year, with production at GM’s Lansing Grand River facility in Michigan. Additional product information, as well as details on additional V-Series variants and CT4 Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport models, will be announced at a later date.

V-Series, CT5, CT4, ATS, CTSScott KissingerJune 3, 2019