With the introduction of the 2020 CT5-V, Cadillac took straight aim at some stiff competition in the performance sedan market, with the model marking the expansion of the V-Series moniker at Cadillac.
While it may not have some of the capabilities of past V models from the luxury brand, the CT5-V is nonetheless a very worthy competitor in this segment.
With features such as magnetic ride control, selectable drive modes, Brembo brakes with eBoost and an electronic limited-slip differential, on top of a solid powertrain, the CT5-V is well equipped to compete.
While we tested a 2020 model, the 2021 version is now available and features a few minor additions, such as the availability of Super Cruise, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Buckle to Drive and a few new exterior colour options.
The CT5-V has a lengthy list of standard equipment and a starting price of $51,998 for the all-wheel drive version, but the test vehicle had a few extras that pushed the final bill to $66,683.
Those options included a $900 charge for premium paint, as well as a leather interior ($1,725), Premium Package ($4,275), Parking Package ($2,405), Driver Awareness Plus Package ($1,495) and the UltraView power sunroof ($1,685).
This all-wheel drive sedan is not lacking in the power department, and that is sure to make any driver pleased.
Open the hood and admire the 3.0-litre twinturbo V6 engine, then hit the ignition switch and enjoy the throaty exhaust note – one that gets even richer in V mode.
The engine, which is paired to an ultra-smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers 360 horsepower and an impressive 405 ft-lb of torque.
And despite the turbo, there is almost no lag when you hit the accelerator, whether it be from a stop or for a passing manoeuvre. And that is just in normal settings, with the powertrain being even more responsive when the V mode is engaged at the touch of a button on the steering wheel.
Clearly, I spent a little too much in that setting as I returned a fuel economy average of 17.1 litres per 100 kilometres compared with the combined estimated average of 11.8 L/100 km.
All decked out in red, the CT5-V is a sexy-looking car, with the exterior of the tester upgraded with 19-inch Satin Graphite alloy wheels.
The front end is elegant yet aggressive with a wide grille, slim headlights, large vertical LED fog lights, all surrounded by a black trim that contrasts nicely with the red paint.
At the back, the quad exhausts take centre stage, with the large angular taillights a close second.
About the only thing that stands out as a bit awkward is the black trim that extends the shape of the rear doors. Something about it just did not sit right to my eye.
2020 Cadillac CT5-V AWD
2020 Cadillac CT5-V AWD
2020 Cadillac CT5-V AWD
2020 Cadillac CT5-V AWD
2020 Cadillac CT5-V AWD
Inside, however, everything was pretty much perfect.
Starting with the sueded microfiber steering wheel that just feels like heaven in your hands, the entire cabin is one luxurious feature after the next.
The dash and centre stack are elegantly designed, with a large screen being a focal point. In the centre console, the gear selector and infotainment controls are well placed and designed, making for ease of use.
The materials throughout the cabin are all of good quality, and the fit and finish is what you would expect from a vehicle of this ilk.
Also up to par is the infotainment system in the CT5-V which features a nice menu interface displayed on a 10-inch screen. Most of the functions can be operated through the touchscreen or the controller in the centre console.
The system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, as well as wireless charging and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
The CT5-V delivers an overall excellent ride feel thanks in large part to the magnetic ride control and performance suspension setup, all of which help to keep the sedan under control during twists and turns.
When combined with the smooth engine delivery and a buttery transmission, the CT5-V offers an excellent driving experience, whether you are in the city or able to open it up on the highways.
It also offers Performance Traction Management which can be activated through Track Mode, but that is one feature I didn’t get to experience.
Despite that, there’s no denying that the CT5-V is a good-looking performance sedan that packs a potent punch from under the hood while coddling the occupants in a luxurious cabin.
It could even give the German stalwarts a few lumps of coal as it eats away some of their consumers.
2020 Cadillac CT5-V AWD
Price as tested: $66,683.00
Freight: $2,100.00
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 3.0-litre twinturbo V6/ 10-speed automatic
Power/torque: 360 horsepower/ 405 ft-lb of torque
Fuel (capacity): Premium (66 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 11.8 L/100 KM
Observed fuel economy (L/100 km): 17.1 L/100 km
Warranties: 4-years/80,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Audi S4, BMW M340i, Mercedes-AMG C 43
Links: Cadillac Canada