FYI: With its potent engine and nimble handling, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing challenges BMW’s dominance in the luxury sports sedan segment.
The early 2000s notably established BMW as the leader in the luxury sports sedan niche. While contenders like the all-wheel-drive Audi RS4 or the power-packed Mercedes-AMG C63 offered their own unique spins on the formula, neither could match the back-road prowess of BMW’s best. This supremacy stems from BMW’s tried-and-true mix: a powerful engine, manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and sports car-like handling.
BMW’s Winning Formula
BMW’s recipe has secured not only impressive sales but also an enduring spot in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. How can competitors measure up against such a well-rounded package? Enter the 2024 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: A Compelling Challenger
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing brings noteworthy credentials to the table. Featuring a 474-horsepower twin-turbo V6 coupled with a manual transmission, it channels power exclusively to the rear wheels. This dynamic setup is paired with a sleeker, more elegant design and a surprisingly lower starting price. So, can the Blackwing tempt some diehard fans away from BMW’s grasp?
Let’s delve into what sets the Blackwing apart.
Distinguishing Features of the Blackwing
First, let’s clear up any confusion about the CT4 range. The “Blackwing” moniker identifies the most performance-oriented variant in Cadillac’s stable. Positioned just below the CT5-V Blackwing, the CT4-V Blackwing aims to go head-to-head with BMW’s 3-Series.
Exterior Upgrades
The visual distinctions start with a bold front splitter, an aggressively restyled bumper, and glossy black trim throughout. Extended side skirts lead to a pronounced rear diffuser encasing quad exhaust tips, capped off by a prominent lid spoiler.
Smaller Yet Potent
Compared to BMW’s M3, the CT4-V Blackwing stands out with its smaller dimensions. Despite a similar weight of around 3,800 pounds, the Blackwing is two inches shorter, three inches narrower, and an inch lower. These seemingly minor differences make the Cadillac appear and feel more compact, both visually and from the driver’s seat—a noteworthy advantage given the increasing bloat of its rivals.
Driving Dynamics and Performance
Pointing the CT4-V Blackwing down a twisty back road reveals its true character. The car bursts to life as you pick up speed, offering ample feedback through its chassis and steering. The shifter, though notchily engaging, immerses the driver in the driving experience.
The twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6 churns out a substantial 472 hp and 445 lb-ft of torque, but its sound profile remains relatively subdued. Even with the exhaust valves open, you get a standard high-pitched note typical of a 90-degree V6—nothing overwhelmingly distinctive but effective nonetheless.
Versatility Through Suspension
What stands out is the Blackwing’s balance between sportiness and luxury. The adaptive suspension with magnetic ride control provides a smooth ride during highway cruises while staying firm and stable on winding roads. The car’s agility is further enhanced by lightweight 18-inch wheels, which help reduce unsprung mass and improve directional changes.
Raw Performance Stats
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is no slouch in performance metrics. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds with the manual transmission (3.9 seconds for the automatic) and achieves a top speed of 189 mph. While these numbers are impressive, the real-world experience reveals that the BMW M3, despite similar stats, delivers a more ferocious punch.
Price and Interior Quality
Affordability is a significant advantage for the Blackwing. Our 2024 tester, starting at $62,890 (including a $1,395 destination fee), reached $72,535 due to $9,645 in optional extras. It’s still notably below the starting price of around $76,000 for a base M3.
However, the cost-cutting measures are noticeable inside. The trim and finishes cannot match the polish of its higher-priced competitors. While the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen offer vibrant displays and functionality, they don’t quite match the luxury feel of BMW’s interiors.
Interior Upgrades
Speaking of the interior, an optional $4,900 upgrade package significantly elevates the cabin. This includes two-tone bucket seats with perforated diamond-stitched leather, red contrast piping, and matching door panels, complemented by carbon fiber accents.
Conclusion
Ultimately, does the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing’s shortfall in material quality impact its appeal? It depends on your priorities in a sports sedan. If luxury and cutting-edge tech are non-negotiable, the Blackwing might fall short. However, for driving enthusiasts, the Blackwing taps into the essence of what made early 2000s BMW models legendary—the joy of driving.
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing isn’t perfect, but it nails the driving experience, offering agility, feedback, and immersion. In a segment increasingly focused on pure speed, the Blackwing is a welcome throwback, reminding us why we fell in love with sporty sedans.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
