If
you’re new to Cadillac’s nomenclature of performance models, here’s a short
recap. Unlike in the past, V-badged models like
the CT4-V and CT5-V sedans are no longer the top-dog versions but rather entry
tickets into the world of fast Cadillacs. Think of them as Cadillac’s version
of Mercedes AMG Sport and BMW M Performance models.
This
is why the current 2020 Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V only get 320 hp and 360 hp,
respectively, from a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. Don’t worry, hotter
versions are on the way and Carscoops photographers snapped them wearing less
camouflage than ever.
For
now, their names remain a mystery so we’ll refer to them as the Blackwing
models – this is the rumored name Cadillac will use. Styling-wise, the
high-performance sedans don’t appear too different from the CT4-V and CT5-V.
The
most obvious changes are the more aggressive front fascias with additional
slatted air intakes, deeper chin spoilers and grille honeycomb inserts featuring
larger cells. Bigger wheels with a motorsport-inspired design, beefier side
skirts and taller boot lid spoilers are also on the menu. Rounding off the
exterior upgrades are the quad exhausts that look identical with those on the
lesser V-badged models.
We
don’t get to see what’s inside but expect these bad boys to gain the whole
package including bucket seats, sports steering wheels, aluminum pedals and the
like. We don’t know what powers these performance sedans either, although
Cadillac said they are definitely faster than the CT4-V and CT5-V.
However,
a spy video from earlier this year revealed that the CT5 packed V8 power. The
safest bet would be the 4.2-liter twin-turbo V8 Blackwing that powers the
Cadillac CT6-V flagship. In that model, the eight-cylinder unit delivers 550 HP
and 868 Nm of torque. The 10-speed auto and optional AWD system are
expected to be part of the package. This should make the smaller CT5-V
Blackwing even quicker than the CT6-V.
As
for the CT4-V Blackwing, word on the street is it could revive the ATS-V’s
twin-turbo V6 making 464 hp and 603 Nm of torque. If that’s the
case, a 10-speed auto is also in the cards along with optional all-wheel drive.
