CT5-V: The Blackwing’s Underrated Sibling
Sibling rivalries can be tough, and no one knows that better than the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V. This midsize luxury sedan strives to shine in its own right, even while overshadowed by its powerhouse sibling, the CT5-V Blackwing. With an impressive blend of power, technology, and refinement, the CT5-V offers a compelling alternative in Cadillac’s performance lineup—without breaking the bank.
Performance That Impresses
At the heart of the 2025 CT5-V is a 360-horsepower twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine delivering a hefty 405 lb-ft of torque at a low 2350 rpm. Paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission, this setup provides a smooth and flexible driving experience. Although it lacks the Blackwing’s supercharged V-8 and eye-watering 668 horsepower, the CT5-V is no slouch. Its 0–60 mph sprints feel urgent, thanks to a standard launch control system and excellent power delivery.
Buyers also have the option of all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000, offering increased versatility and confidence in varying road conditions—a feature notably absent in the rear-wheel-drive-only Blackwing. The chassis, equipped with Cadillac’s renowned Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 and an electronic limited-slip rear differential, ensures composed handling and remarkable grip, making the CT5-V a joy to hustle on winding roads.
Balanced Design, Inside and Out
Cadillac refreshed the CT5-V’s exterior for 2025, sharpening its lines to deliver a more aggressive and modern look. While the Blackwing may hog the spotlight on the track, the CT5-V’s sophisticated design holds its own on the road. It rides on 19-inch wheels with the choice of summer or all-weather tires, complemented by Brembo front brakes for confident stopping power.
Inside, the highlight is a stunning 33.0-inch curved display that combines infotainment and driver information into one seamless, high-resolution screen. Replacing the older 10-inch display, this state-of-the-art system runs on Cadillac’s latest Google-based operating system, offering an intuitive and highly customizable user experience. The luxurious cabin features standard massaging, heated front seats that perfectly balance comfort and support, making long drives a pleasure.
For audiophiles, the new AKG audio system delivers crystal-clear sound, focusing on precision and balance rather than overpowering bass. It’s an ideal companion for those who value nuanced, high-quality soundscapes.
Dynamic Drive Modes
The CT5-V lets drivers tailor their experience with multiple drive modes, including Sport, Track, Snow/Ice, and the customizable V-Mode. Each adjusts throttle response, suspension stiffness, and transmission behavior to suit the road ahead. Track Mode even livens up the exhaust note, though it understandably can’t match the Blackwing’s thunderous roar.
On winding backroads, the CT5-V feels agile and confident, with precise—if slightly synthetic—steering feedback. The carefully tuned suspension effortlessly absorbs elevation changes and uneven pavement, offering a balance between performance and comfort.
Super Cruise and Competitive Value
Cadillac’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system is available on the CT5-V, offering one of the most advanced semi-autonomous systems on the market. While it’s limited to pre-mapped highways, the system is a valuable addition for long-distance travel, providing drivers with peace of mind.
Starting at $58,390, the CT5-V is a performance bargain compared to rivals like the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C43. It’s also over $40,000 less than its Blackwing sibling, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts seeking Cadillac’s signature blend of luxury and performance without the steep price tag.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Cadillac CT5-V is an overachiever in every sense. While it may not have the headline-grabbing specs of the Blackwing, it strikes a near-perfect balance between performance, luxury, and affordability. From its advanced tech to its finely tuned chassis, the CT5-V proves that sometimes being the middle child isn’t a bad thing—it might just be the smartest choice.
