2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: A Closer Look
The Blackwing package adds life to the CT4 platform.
CAR FRONT
With a tiny 2.0 liter 237 horsepower engine, and a low $34K price tag, the CT4 has been an "entry-level" economy car in the Cadillac lineup. But with the Blackwing package, this changes in a hurry.
Photos by Chad Haire
ENGINE
Look under the hood, and we now find a modified 3.6 liter V-6 with a twin-turbo mounted. Horsepower is rated at a healthy 472 at 5,750 rpm, and torque output of 445 lb-ft at 3,500.
TRANSMISSION
A modern 10-speed automatic gearbox is offered, but we have the standard 6-speed manual. So equipped, the car is slightly slower and uses a bit more fuel over the auto shifter, but certainly more fun to drive. The throws are short, operation smooth, with a light clutch.
DRIVE MODES
Here are three buttons that will be used often, a rev match, traction control, and drive mode choice.
V-MODE
For those in a hurry, just push this V button. This sets all modes to the maximum performance settings at once.
DOWN UNDER
With MagneRide suspension, locking differential, and Michelin Pilot performance tires, cornering ability is there, but with a comfortable ride. The front brakes are large 6-piston 15-inch, with 4-piston 13.5 at the rear. Since top speed is claimed to be 189 mph, it's nice to know the vehicle can stop!
POV
The claimed 0-60 mph time is 3.9 for the 10-speed tranny, or 4.0 for the stick. While the car was not timed by a stopwatch, acceleration was close to these numbers. When not in a hurry, this is a pleasant freeway cruiser.
FRONT END
The front end is low to keep the vehicle planted on the pavement at speed, but this can cause conflict with curb rash. Park carefully!
GAUGE
The gauge cluster is well designed. The fuel economy was just over 22 mpg at 75 mph freeway cruising.
FUEL ECONOMY
On a short 10.8-mile freeway trip cruising at 53 mph, the computer showed 35.1 mpg. So at slow speed, fuel economy can be done, but with all this power on tap, who would want to?
