Unleash the Power of the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing

The Basics

The regular CT5-V, without the Blackwing moniker, is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 360 horsepower. It comes with rear or all-wheel drive options. The Blackwing, on the other hand, boasts a glorious 6.6-liter supercharged V8, delivering 668 horsepower and only available with rear-wheel drive. For 2025, both models receive a significant refresh, addressing the outdated cabin of the 2024 model.

Gone is the tiny, cheap-looking infotainment touchscreen. In its place is a 33-inch-diagonal LED touchscreen running on Google Built-In, elevating the driving experience. It provides modern visuals during daily driving and is a game-changer on the track when using the available Performance Data Recorder. A little Cadillac crest on the back of the screen adds a cool touch. The controls maintain a practical layout, and GM's SuperCruise is now standard with the automatic transmission.

Exterior Updates

Cadillac gave the CT5-V Blackwing few but considerable tweaks to the exterior. The front end is the standout update, reminiscent of the V-Series.R race car from Le Mans. The stacked, vertical headlights with Mondrian pattern etching, new grille, and front fender make the car look wider and more aggressive. Other minor tweaks include updated quad trapezoid exhaust tips, a carbon fiber exterior package with a new front splitter, and three new colors: Drift Metallic (pastel blue), Deep Space Metallic (dark blue), and Typhoon Metallic (dark green).

Precision Package Enhancements

The Precision Package brings significant improvements to the drivetrain and chassis. The chassis package enhances precision, targets road isolation, and improves cornering speeds and stability. This is achieved through stiffer spring rates, suspension bushings, and a larger front stabilizer bar. MagneRide dampers have been recalibrated, along with the steering, chassis controls, and e-LSD. New hardware allows for more aggressive, track-focused wheel alignment.

The total cost of the Precision Package is $18,000, but in reality, it's kinda-sorta $9,000 as it requires the carbon ceramic brakes, which cost $9,000 on their own. These enhancements pay big dividends on the road and especially on the track.

Track Driving Experience

The CT5-V Blackwing is already a great car for the street, with its luxurious features and spacious interior. But when it comes to tracking, the Precision Package takes it to a whole new level. At Atlanta Motorsports Park, a challenging track, the regular-trim automatic Blackwing initially felt big and the track narrow. But after a few laps and with the guidance of sports-car-racing superstar Jordan Taylor, I began to understand its capabilities.

The Blackwing is a beast that demands strength and finesse. It listens but also has a mind of its own, keeping you on your toes. Negotiating tight curves requires patience and self-control. Unlike German rivals, the Blackwing feels incredibly analog, allowing you to feel every aspect of the driving experience.

Hitting the bumpy right-hand kink and the main straight at high speeds is a thrilling experience. MagneRide handles the bumps well, but it still makes you feel the power. The Caddy lurches forward with force, and the differential applies the power seamlessly. The Precision Package further enhances the handling, making the body stay flatter through corners and revealing more body roll in the regular Blackwing.

Updated Performance Data Recorder

The updated Performance Data Recorder is the biggest proof of the car's track focus. It records laps via the front-facing camera with driving data overlays like rpm, speed, gear, string angle, g's, lap times, and track positioning via GPS. The new Lap Analyzer gives a Gran Turismo-like mode, allowing you to chase your best time in real-time. If you're slower than your previous lap, the screen flashes red; if you're faster, it flashes green. Once in the pits, the Cosworth-developed system analyzes your laps and provides "Speed Tips" to improve your driving.

The Early Verdict

The 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is the car that enthusiasts have been dreaming about. It's a powerful, precise, and luxurious sedan that has defeated the Europeans at their own game. Don't let the naysayers deter you. Buy one and experience the thrill for yourself.

2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Specs

Base Price: $96,990

Powertrain: 6.2-liter supercharged V8 | 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic | rear-wheel drive

Horsepower: 668 @ 6,500 rpm

Torque: 659 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm

Seating Capacity: 5

Cargo Volume: 11.9 cubic feet

Curb Weight: 4,123 pounds (manual) / 4,142 pounds (auto)

0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds (auto)

Top Speed: > 200 mph

EPA Fuel Economy: 13 mpg city | 20 highway | 15 combined

Quick Take: It's the car enthusiasts have asked for. It's here. Buy it.

Score: 9.5/10