Cadillac has undergone a migration … and it’s about time!
In the eyes of the people at General Motors, they are really kicking themselves as they lost out on their sports brand when Pontiac was eliminated years ago. Since then, Cadillac has had to take on the brunt of being the sports brand while still focusing on its luxury offerings. As Cadillac has struggled recently with doing so, we now notice some recent revitalizations in the fleet lineup. This week, it’s the CT4 Blackwing in Grasso’s Garage for a summer review!
With small modifications, it’s back and it’s got a new name. The CT4 Blackwing, previously known as the ATS-V, shows out nice in its Shadow Metallic Gray exterior and Carbon Fiber additions.
Packed with a six-speed manual transmission and powerful 3.6-liter Twin Turbo V-6 engine, producing 472 horsepower, the CT4-V is a bullet.
Appearance is everything for Cadillac these days as the sports/luxury brand must do its best to remain in existence. As you can tell by driving, limited Cadillacs are on the road today as the European market still remains strong. The exterior and interior of the CT4-V resembles very similar attributes to our previously tested CT5-V, formerly known as the CTS-V. It’s sporty, it’s comfortable, it’s got power and it is ready to rip up the pavement. The interior is the same as the CT5-V with its easy-to-use infotainment system, drive modes, heads-up display and powerful AKG Premium audio system. And it comes with leather seats, heated steering wheel and front seats as well as all of the safety and security features Cadillac has to offer.
My passion for Cadillac is similar to that of a relationship with a sibling. You learn to love them over time but once in a while you get that hate feeling. With Cadillac, I am thankful it is beginning to master the sporty environment while still adding that luxury flare it has always maintained. I am certain GM is excited, as well, as the sporty models have been vacant in its fleet for some time.
But, let’s not lose sight of the consumer either, and with that I mean, the price. I agree owning a Cadillac is not for everyone and has always been wrapped around an upscale/prestigious environment, but for the CT4-V without an eight-cylinder fire-breathing engine, I have a hard time getting to a base price in the upper $50,000s.
Grasso’s Garage is here for you! Are you in the market for a new car? I would be happy to provide my honest input. All you have to do is email me: marc.grasso@bostonherald.com.
Cadillac CT4 Blackwing
MSRP: $58,995
As tested: $76,635
MPG: 15 city, 23 highway, 20.0 as tested