It was 15 years ago that GM Performance Division did something unprecedented. They borrowed the Corvette Z06 engine and transmission to build the CTS-V. Built in limited numbers, the first generation was built for the Nurburgring. As such, it had 405 horsepower and no option for an automatic transmission. Times have changed, and the CTS-V went out on top for 2019. That’s because the fine folks at Lansing Grand River Assembly were preparing for something new. In a press release this morning, Cadillac has unveiled the new 2020 CT4-V & CT5-V sedans.
As an owner of a 2004 CTS-V, it was exciting to see the 2nd generation arrive in 2009 with the sedan joined by a coupe and wagon. You can’t deny the brutal 640 horsepower of the 3rd generation, but it came with a six-figure price tag. There will always be a market for super sedans, so the CT6-V offers 550 horsepower and 627 lb-ft to all wheels.
Because of GM’s recent advances in turbo technology, it has allowed Cadillac to offer two new cars with exciting power. First off, lets look at what they share. Both cars are RWD and based on the Alpha chassis. This means both are available with AWD with a curb weight under 4,000 lbs. Sharing the latest in suspension, both cars have the 4th generation Magnetic Ride Control. Finally, both cars share the indestructible 10-Speed automatic transmission and SuperCruise autonomous driving.
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Starting with the CT4-V, it has a wheelbase of 89.6″, and weighs 3,600 lbs. It also has 12.6″ Brembo brakes. It is a direct replacement for the ATS-V, making 320 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. To do this, they borrowed the 2.7L turbocharged four cylinder from the Chevy Silverado. Both camshafts have 3 lobes for each valve, and they slide front to rear in a 3-step motion. Not only do they slide, each one has variable timing. This allows 33 lbs of boost to offer great fuel economy.
Big brother CT5-V has a 116″ wheelbase and weighs in around 3,900 lbs. The brakes are an inch larger and it offers 4″ more leg room for the rear passengers. Under the hood is the same 3.0L twin turbo V6 found in the CT6. It offers 355 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. From our experiences driving CT6 press cars, this smooth & silent six should be offered across GM’s lineup.
In conclusion, we are happy to see new members of the V-Series. All brands are going to smaller engines with larger turbos, and the CT5-V AWD will undobtedly be a mean machine. Tell us which one you would own in the comments below, then click on the link for great deals on the remaining CTS-Vs.