Cadillac's sedan lineup is changing. The CTS gives way to the CT5, and the ATS to the CT4. The latter is first revealed in its sportiest version, the CT4-V, in order to show its anchoring in the premium market. It will nevertheless be necessary to confirm subsequently the level of difference between the ATS and the CT4 which seem to remain very close.
This week Torque News test-drove the 2020 Cadillac CT4 V-Series and this review I am going to share my impressions from this performance sedan, but I am going to also write about the CT5 because these two Cadillac sedans are closely related.
Following the 2019 CT6-V, the CT4 and CT5 sedans grow the V-Series family with even more levels of performance, while preserving the lineage established by the original V-Series Cadillac lineup introduced in 2004. In other words, Cadillac has decided to change its approach with its performance division.
“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," said Brandon Vivian, Cadillac executive chief engineer when unveiling the CT4 and CT5 sedans.
In fact, Cadillac has also introduced a a street-friendly, track-focused package and each will be called the Blackwing, featuring unique chassis and engine technology while offering the pinnacle in modern General Motors luxury-performance lineup.
For the CT4-V, Cadillac communicates above all on the performance side, with a 2.7 Turbo 4-cylinder, already used at pickups Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.
The 2020 Cadillac CT4 is rated at 325 hp/381 lb-ft. torque (SAE Certified), and is associated with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a limited slip differential. Rear-wheel drive models receive Magnetic Ride suspension. But the CT4-V is also available in a 4-wheel drive version, in which case it is equipped with conventional damping. Despite its positioning on the compact market, it will receive the Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system, allowing you to let go of the wheel on the portions of roads that allow it.
As for the CT5, it is logically a little more ambitious with its V6 3.0 Biturbo and is rated at 360 hp and 405 lb.-ft. of torque. Both cars are built on GM's Alpha powered platform. The all-wheel drive is also offered as an option, in order to adequately compete with the sedans offered by Audi, BMW and Mercedes-AMG.
The Full Specs of The 2020 Cadillac CT4 V-Series
- 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 325 hp/381 lb-ft. torque (SAE Certified)
- 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.
Sportiness
Cadillac promises exceptional agility in the class thanks to near-perfect weight distribution and suspension improvements. Electric power steering comes from Bosch and Brembo front brakes are standard on the CT4-V and Sport. Continental branded self-sealing tires are a first among compact luxury sport sedans.
The CT4 is a muscular and efficient sedan, worthy of competing with the best German cars.
Distinctive Exterior of The 2020 CT4
Physically, the 2020 Cadillac CT4 is characterized by a long hood as well as a wide, stocky stance. All optical units are LED and 11 exterior colors are available.
The Luxe and Premium Luxe trims sport several chrome accents and chic grilles, while the Sport and CT4-V trims feature darker treatment, a sporty grille, aerodynamic elements like a subtle rear spoiler and lower bodywork. extended, without forgetting exclusive rims.
The interior of the 2020 Cadillac CT4 emphasizes the driver and places the controls in ergonomic places. Several metallic touches add sparkle to the decor. By the way, eight color and finish options are offered on board.
The focal point of the CT4's interior is the eight-inch high-definition touchscreen whose layout follows the new trend in the industry. Sophisticated amenities like a heated leather steering wheel, HD rear view camera, full color behind-the-wheel display and LED ambient lighting with stealth mode are also on the menu.
Pricing and MPG
CT4 pricing begins at $33,990 for the RWD and $36,590 for the AWD. The top trim of CT4-V with 2.7T engine, starts at $45,490 for the RWD and $46,590 for the AWD version. Regarding the EPA MPG, it uses premium gasoline 23 combined city/highway, MPG 20 city, 28 highway and spends 4.3 gals per 100 miles.
“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.”
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.
Reference: Guide Auto Web, Cadillac CT4 Unveil.
The CTS V and ATS V were one
The CTS V and ATS V were one of my favorite cars from the last 10 years, but Cadillac lost its way. Hopefully these new iterations help get them back going. I love their sedans more than their boring SUVs.