The Cadillac CT5-V often exists in the shadow of its more powerful sibling, the CT5-V Blackwing, renowned for its supercharged engine and manual transmission. However, the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V carves its own niche as a compelling performance sedan, bridging the gap between the standard CT5 and the track-focused Blackwing. It’s a vehicle that deserves closer attention, offering a potent blend of power, refined handling, and cutting-edge technology.
For the 2025 model year, the CT5-V receives key updates, most notably a significantly upgraded interior brimming with Cadillac’s latest infotainment system. Coupled with its already impressive twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine and Magnetic Ride Control, the 2025 CT5-V presents a strong value proposition, starting at a competitive $58,390. This positions it as an attractive option for those seeking a luxury performance sedan without breaking the bank.
| Quick Specs | 2025 Cadillac CT5-V |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-Turbocharged 3.0-Liter V-6 |
| Output | 360 Horsepower / 405 Pound-Feet |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.6 Seconds |
| Weight | 3,975 Pounds |
| Base Price / As Tested | $58,390 / $70,255 |
Potent Twin-Turbo V6 Engine and Performance Dynamics
At the heart of the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V lies a sophisticated twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine. This powerplant delivers a robust 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels through a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. The result is a performance that is anything but sluggish. The CT5-V accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a brisk 4.6 seconds and can reach a top speed of 156 mph when conditions allow.
The engine’s torque curve is broad and accessible, with peak torque arriving at just 2,400 rpm. This translates to responsive acceleration from a standstill and ample power for confident highway overtaking. While there’s a hint of turbo lag, the CT5-V genuinely feels quicker than its official 0-60 time suggests, making it exhilarating for spirited driving, especially with its assertive V-6 exhaust note. Even at higher speeds, the engine maintains its eagerness, ensuring power is always readily available across the rev range.
The 10-speed automatic transmission performs adequately, providing smooth and timely shifts. While enthusiasts might still yearn for the six-speed manual offered in the Blackwing variant, the automatic is well-suited for daily driving. For a more engaging experience, selecting Track mode and utilizing the paddle shifters unlocks quicker gear changes and greater driver control.
2025 Cadillac CT5-V Engine Performance
Agile Handling and Refined Ride with Magnetic Ride Control
The 2025 Cadillac CT5-V leverages GM’s Alpha platform, known for its balanced dynamics, and pairs it with the sophisticated Magnetic Ride Control suspension. This combination endows the CT5-V with impressive cornering capabilities. The car turns into corners with enthusiasm and maintains composure throughout, inspiring confidence in twisty roads. While there might be a touch more body roll compared to some German rivals like Audi or BMW, it never compromises the car’s overall stability and poise.
However, the steering could benefit from enhanced precision. A slightly vague on-center feel and a lack of feedback through the steering rack prevent the CT5-V from feeling as sharp and connected as it could be. Similar to the more potent Blackwing, there’s room for improvement in steering feel to truly elevate the driving experience, perhaps through a future “Precision package.”
Cadillac CT5-V Cornering Performance
Daily Driving Comfort and Enhanced Technology
Where the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V truly shines is as a daily driver. The same Magnetic Ride Control system that contributes to its cornering prowess also delivers exceptional ride comfort for everyday commutes and long journeys. It effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a remarkably smooth and composed ride. The interior is appointed with rich brown leather on the seats and dashboard, complemented by high-quality trim accents throughout the center console, creating a premium ambiance.
A significant upgrade for 2025 is the integration of Cadillac’s advanced infotainment technology, headlined by a massive new touchscreen. This addresses a key criticism of previous models. The entire CT5 range now features a standard 33.0-inch widescreen display seamlessly integrating the digital instrument cluster and the central touchscreen. The display is visually stunning and user-friendly, boasting crisp graphics, rapid response times, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
2025 Cadillac CT5-V Interior and Technology
Cadillac thoughtfully retains a physical control knob for the infotainment system, a feature increasingly absent in competitor vehicles (BMW being a recent example). While not ideal for every function, this knob proves invaluable for quickly accessing basic controls while driving, offering a safer and more intuitive alternative to solely relying on the touchscreen at speed.
Furthermore, the 2025 CT5-V comes standard with Super Cruise, GM’s acclaimed hands-free driver-assistance technology. Super Cruise operates seamlessly and significantly enhances driving convenience on compatible highways. Engaging Super Cruise is as simple as pressing a button on the steering wheel, indicated by a green light bar. The system adeptly maintains lane centering and can even execute automatic lane changes when an opening is detected. While hands-free, Super Cruise requires driver attentiveness to ensure safety, discouraging distractions and promoting responsible use.
Cadillac CT5-V Super Cruise Technology
Competitive Pricing and Market Positioning
With a base price of $58,390, the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V occupies a competitive mid-range position within its segment. It undercuts rivals like the BMW M340i ($61,375) and Mercedes-AMG C43 ($63,650), while being priced slightly above the Audi A5 ($48,995), Acura TLX Type S ($51,595), and Genesis G70 3.3T ($52,300).
The tested vehicle, loaded with options, reaches $70,225. Notable options include the Platinum package ($8,595) encompassing a sunroof, Technology package, upgraded leather, and a microfiber steering wheel. Additional options like the performance data and video recorder ($1,600) and further enhancements to paint, brakes, and ventilated seats contribute to the as-tested price.
However, for buyers prioritizing the core performance attributes of the CT5-V – its potent V-6 engine, refined suspension, and comfortable ride – many of these optional extras can be forgone, keeping the price closer to the attractive base MSRP. In its fundamental form, the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V presents a compelling package that is difficult to fault.
Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Performance Sedan
The 2025 Cadillac CT5-V effectively blends engaging performance with everyday luxury and comfort. Its twin-turbo V6 delivers ample power, while the Magnetic Ride Control ensures both agile handling and a smooth ride. The updated interior technology, particularly the expansive touchscreen and standard Super Cruise, elevates the driving experience. Priced competitively, the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V stands as a strong contender in the performance sedan segment, offering a compelling alternative to its more established European rivals and proving itself as more than just a stepping stone to the Blackwing.
