Cadillac is building on the success of the CT4-V by introducing the all-new CT4-V Blackwing. Featuring “incredible power and luxurious craftsmanship,” the CT4-V Blackwing is the highly anticipated successor to the ATS-V. It has a lot in common with its predecessor including a twin-turbo 3.6-liter V6. However, the engine doesn’t carryover as engineers have made a number of improvements. mong the changes are new control system software, revised crankshaft counterweights and an improved air intake that reduces restriction by 39 percent. The turbine wheels also feature titanium-aluminide construction for “more precise and responsive application of torque throughout the rev range,” while the piston oil squirters have been re-targeted for improved temperature control.

Thanks to all these changes, the twin-turbo V6 produces 472 hp and 603 Nm of torque. That’s an increase of 8 hp and it enables the model to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in approximately 3.8 seconds. If drivers keep pushing it, the car will top out around 304 km/h. While the performance improvements are minor, the CT4-V Blackwing is significantly more powerful than competitors such as the Audi RS3 and Mercedes-AMG CLA 45. As a refresher, the RS3 has 394 hp and 480 Nm of torque, while the CLA 45 boasts 382 hp and 480 Nm of torque.

 

The Blackwing’s engine is so powerful that it compares favorably with the standard BMW M3. Its twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six produces 473 hp and 550 Nm of torque, which means it has nearly the same amount of horsepower as the cheaper Cadillac but significantly less torque. Like in the CT5-V Blackwing, the engine can be connected to either a six-speed manual or an optional ten-speed automatic. The former features a twin-disc clutch and a transmission cooler as well as active rev matching and “no-lift shift” technology. While automatic is less involving, it has a manual mode that enables drivers to shift via magnesium paddles. The gearbox’s behavior changes depending on the selected drive mode and it automatically enters Dynamic Performance mode when high g forces are experienced in Sport or Track mode.

The performance features don’t end there as the CT4-V Blackwing comes with an electronic limited slip rear differential. Other highlights include a new aluminum rear housing with a differential cooler and an integrated heat exchanger. The suspension echoes the CT5-V Blackwing as it features stiffer springs, hollow stabilizer bars and cross-axis ball joints.  It also boasts all-new elastomer front bushings, stiffer rear knuckles and cradle mounts as well as the latest version of Magnetic Ride Control. Besides the suspension changes, the rear-wheel drive platform has been upgraded for high-performance use. Among the modifications are “structural enhancements” including a shock tower brace, an underbody shear plate and a thicker rear cross member. Cadillac says the updates help to improve steering response, handling and the everyday driving experience.

 

The performance features extend to the exterior as the CT4-V Blackwing has larger air intakes and unique mesh grille inserts. The model also has an aerodynamic body kit that includes a front splitter, front fender vents and extended side skirts. They’re joined by a rear spoiler and diffuser as well as underbody paneling. Customers can also order a carbon fiber aerodynamic package that has been designed to reduce lift on the track. Cadillac didn’t say much about it, but confirmed the package provides a 214% reduction in lift compared to the standard setup.

The entry-level Blackwing rides on 18-inch forged aluminum wheels that are wrapped in specially developed Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. They feature a multi-compound tread composition that promises to optimize wet traction as well as street and track durability. The wheels are backed up by a high-performance braking system with 15 inch (381 mm) discs and six-piston Brembo calipers up front. They’re accompanied by four-piston calipers which grab onto 13.4 inch (340 mm) discs out back. The calipers will be available in a variety of colors, but the CT4-V Blackwing won’t offer a carbon ceramic braking package like its big brother.

 

Moving into the cabin, drivers will find a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel and 18-way power adjustable leatherette front seats with heating. Other standard features include carbon fiber trim, a wireless smartphone charger, a 14 speaker AKG audio system, and an 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Behind the wheel is a 12-inch digital instrument cluster with unique Blackwing graphics. The display is configurable and has a Track screen with performance timers for 0-96 km/h and quarter-mile acceleration – among other things.

The mid-level interior has leather and sueded microfiber sport seats with heating and 16-way power adjustment. There’s also a smaller diameter steering wheel with carbon fiber trim as well as a V-Mode button and a Performance Traction Management switch. The range-topping interior boasts “Level 2” sport seats with a unique back panel. They also have heating, ventilation and massage functions as well as leather and sueded microfiber upholstery.

Last but not least, buyers will find a sueded microfiber headliner as well as leather and sueded microfiber door panels. Pricing starts at US$ 59,990 – including a US$ 995 destination charge.