The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is one of the
brand’s most anticipated models in recent years as it will have the difficult
task of succeeding the CTS-V. It will also need to be a credible rival for
Germany’s BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E 63, but that’s another story. Despite
adopting the cool ‘Blackwing’ moniker, the performance sedan will not pack
Cadillac’s 550 HP twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8, nicknamed Blackwing. That engine
will sadly remain exclusive to the larger CT6-V.
Development of the CT5-V Blackwing appears
to be in the final stages, as this prototype spotted on public roads in
Michigan seems to suggest. Our photographers spotted it with fewer camouflage
than ever and an enticing set of wheels never before seen on a CT5-V Blackwing.
We’re talking meaty 19-inch alloys in a
multi-spoke design with a satin bronze treatment that contrasts with the
burgundy-painted brake calipers. Together with the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S
ultra high-performance sport summer tires, they fill up the wheel arches really
nicely. The front tires are sized 275/35 ZR19 while the rear ones are 305/30
ZR19 – a step up from earlier CT5-V Blackwing prototypes which featured 18-inch
rims with 255/35 ZR18 Michelin Pilot rubber up front.
Cool wheels aside, this 2021 Cadillac
CT5-V Blackwing prototype also gives us a better look at details like the Satin
Steel Metallic paint and aggressive front and rear fascias that are still
camouflaged but not that hard to decipher. The chiseled side sills and large
rear deck spoiler are also visible. Overall, the Blackwing should sport more
focused looks that the regular CT5-V.
The 2021 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing will
certainly have the performance to back its beefy appearance; according to the
latest intel, it will pack an upgraded version of the CTS-V’s 6.2-liter
supercharged V8. Expected to produce 650 HP and at least 855 Nm, it
will be offered with a six-speed manual transmission and a 10-speed automatic.
The 0-96 km/h sprint should be
well under 4 seconds, while the top speed could hit 322 km/h. The
CT5-V Blackwing is expected to debut late this year or early next year with a
price tag of around US$ 85,000.
