The Cadillac CT6 V-Sport Receives Confusing Name Change

It's not even on sale yet and already Cadillac is changing its name.

Cadillac is expanding its V-Series performance lineup with the addition of the CT6-V sedan for 2019. But don’t get too excited, as the addition of the CT6-V is little more than a name change for the CT6 V-Sport, which the brand debuted earlier this year at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.

This is part of Cadillac’s larger push to add full bored V-Series models across the model lineup. Conveniently, the move also coincides with the demise of the CTS-V and ATS-V which will end their production runs next year.

To be honest, the move stinks like a short-term stopgap as the brand scrambles to fill an unacceptable hole in the very popular V-Series lineup, which has grown to gain a cult following among consumers in the know.

The CT6-V will arrive spring 2019, almost a full calendar year after it originally bowed in Manhattan. Look for it to feature Cadillac's new 4.2-liter "Blackwing" V8, which spits out 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque courtesy of its twin-turbo layout. Power is sent through GM's new 10-speed automatic transmission which in turn feeds all four wheels. The engine will also be available in a less aggressive format, with 500 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque on tap in the CT6 Platinum.

"Beginning with the debut of the CTS-V Sedan in 2004, the V-Series sub-brand sparked new life into Cadillac," Mark Reuss, executive vice president and president of GM Global Automotive Group and Cadillac, said in a statement. "As a result of the overwhelming response the CT6 V-Sport received when revealed in early 2018, we've decided to formally make it a V-Series, signaling the expansion of V-Series."

What’s sad though is that the “flagship” V-Series product is actually less impressive from a performance standpoint than the absolutely mental CTS-V, which sports GM’s face-melting 6.2-liter supercharged V8 good for 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of twist.

If Cadillac really wanted to get people’s attention and slaughter anything from Affalterbach, it should have given the CT6-V a version of GM’s new LT5 supercharged V8 which is kicking out 755 horsepower and 715 lb-feet of torque in the Corvette ZR1.

Regardless, what’s next up for the V-Series brand is unclear. Given the popularity of performance crossovers either the XT5 or the recently launched XT4 would be good candidates, as would the flagship Escalade, which is just begging for a supercharger to crown its current 6.2-liter V8.

Get A Closer Look At The New Cadillac CT6 V-Sport

Cadillac’s new V8 flagship has made its North American debut in New York.

Cadillac recently lifted the wraps off the new CT6 V-Sport, and now the high-performance sedan has debuted at the New York Auto Show. Shown to the public for the first time, the CT6 V-Sport’s styling looks sharp in the metal, while its darker front with a large V-inspired mesh grille, and rear spoiler highlight its sporty credentials. Further distinguishing the flagship sedan are lower aero components, unique 20-inch V-Sport wheels with summer performance tires, and Gloss Black side window surround trim.

Not only is this the first flagship CT6, it’s also the first model powered by Cadillac’s newly-developed twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8 engine delivering an estimated 550 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The new unit features a clean sheet design with turbochargers mounted between the heads, resulting in significantly less turbo lag and a more compact package. Power is sent to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission. A less powerful 500-hp version of the same engine will also be offered with the non-V-Sport CT6. Don't expect the twin-turbo V8 to be exclusive to Cadillac for very long, however.

General Motors is expected to roll it out across other models in the future including the new mid-engine Corvette C8. Cadillac still hasn’t divulged any performance specs, but the CT6 V-Sport has clearly been tuned for the track as engineers have fitted a mechanical limited-slip rear differential and specially tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension. New tech includes Cadillac’s most advanced infotainment system yet, sporting a 10-inch 1080p display with faster responses and improved voice recognition. There’s also a wide range of driver assists including Forward Collision Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking, and Safety Alert Seat assists are also included. Cadillac’s Super Cruise system will only be available in non-V-Sport models, however.

Is This The High-Performance Cadillac XT4 V-Sport?

Could a full-on V model also be in the cards?

Cadillac's V models are its most expensive and high-performance vehicles, equivalent to the RS, M, and AMG cars from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. In order to compete in a slightly less expensive and less hardcore segment, Cadillac decided to release V-Sport models to sit below the high-performance V models.

The most recent V-Sport model was set to be the new CT6 V-Sport, which will be powered by a new 4.2-liter twin turbo V8 with 500 horsepower. However, before the car went on sale, Cadillac decided to change the name to CT6-V. After this change, we weren't sure what the next Cadillac V-Sport model would be, but now we have a clearer picture.

On its own website, Cadillac posted a rendering of what looks like either an XT4 V-Sport or XT4-V. Cadillac hasn't officially announced a V-Sport or V version of the XT4, but there it sits clear as day under the "Exterior and Performance" segment.

The image shows a realistic rendering and a sketch, both depicting the crossover with massively flared wheel arches, large dual exhaust pipes, and a prominent V badge. Of course, just because this image is on the website doesn't mean Cadillac will actually build it. We've also seen third party renderings of what an XT4-V could look like and we were thoroughly impressed.

As of now, the only engine available in the XT4 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. According to GM Authority, the XT4 V-Sport would stick to a four-cylinder engine rather than use a V6. Power could come from an electrified version of the current LSY engine in the base XT4, or the new 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder LB3 engine found in the new Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, where it produces 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque. While the four-cylinder feels a bit disappointing in the Silverado, it could be spectacular in the smaller Cadillac XT4.

Surprise! Cadillac CT6 V-Sport Revealed With 550-HP V8

Say hello to the first ever Cadillac CT6 V-Sport.

Cadillac recently hinted it wants to expand its current range of high-performance V-Series models. Staying true to its promise, the automaker has just revealed the range-topping CT6 sedan is getting the V-Performance treatment for the first time in the model’s history. Cadillac also announced the entire CT6 lineup is getting an overhaul incorporating styling cues inspired by the stunning Escala Concept.

The first in a series of new Cadillac performance cars, the new CT6 V-Sport boasts an all-new 4.2-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces an estimated 550 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Cadillac says the engine is a clean-sheet design with unique elements offering a balance between performance, efficiency, and compact packaging. At the heart of Cadillac’s new twin-turbo V8 is a “hot V” configuration, whereby the turbochargers are mounted between the heads to eliminate turbo lag and reduce the engine’s overall size. Power is sent through a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Optimized gear ratios enhance performance and helps reduce engine speed on the highway for refinement and efficiency. “With the introduction of the all-new CT6 V-Sport, Cadillac begins a new chapter in its performance legacy with the introduction of the brand’s first-ever twin-turbo V8 engine,” Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “It is the centerpiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sport sedan infused with DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned and championship-winning motorsports program.” Distinguishing the first-ever Cadillac CT6 V-Sport is a bold, dark front with a large V-inspired mesh grille, new horizontal LED headlamps and a rear spoiler.

Other exterior changes include lower aero components, unique 20-inch V-Sport wheels with summer performance tires, and Gloss Black side window surround trim. Complementing the aggressive look is an exhaust system with active valves that reduce back pressure to deliver a more ear-shattering note. Cadillac hasn’t revealed any 0-60 mph times, but it’s clear the CT6 has been optimized for performance. Engineers have modified the steering and Magnetic Ride Control damper calibrations, installed a limited-slip differential, and a new 19-inch Brembo brake system developed specifically for the CT6 with four piston calipers in front and performance pads.

There’s also a dedicated Track mode, which revises the AWD torque split and track-tuned Active Rear Steer, among other modifications.“ The CT6 V-Sport was developed for driving enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: a high-performance sports sedan and a luxury car with all the comforts and technology that come with it,” said Lyndon Lie, CT6 chief engineer. “With its lightweight architecture, an all-new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 coupled with the tightened suspension and revised AWD torque split, we’ve enhanced the CT6 to be well-balanced and capable of all conditions.”

Expect to learn more about the new Cadillac CT6 V-Sport when it debuts at the New York Auto Show next week alongside the 2019 XT4. In addition, the 2019 CT6 lineup has been refreshed with a facelift and a raft of new tech. New horizontal elements give the front end a more aggressive appearance, and there’s also a new rear lighting graphic, which is only visible at night. It also incorporates Cadillac’s new “Y” trim strategy, where each model will have Luxury and Sport trims. Non-V-Sport CT6 models will feature new horizontal high-lumen headlights and a revised taillight design inspired by the Escala Concept.

There’s a raft of new tech too, including an infotainment system with a 10-inch 1080p display offering a smartphone-like experience with faster responses and improved voice recognition. A range of driver assists will include Forward Collision Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking, and Safety Alert Seat. Cadillac’s semi-autonomous Super Cruise system will only be available in non-V-Sport models.

The Cadillac CT6 V-Sport Receives Confusing Name Change

It's not even on sale yet and already Cadillac is changing its name.

Cadillac is expanding its V-Series performance lineup with the addition of the CT6-V sedan for 2019. But don’t get too excited, as the addition of the CT6-V is little more than a name change for the CT6 V-Sport, which the brand debuted earlier this year at the 2018 New York International Auto Show.

This is part of Cadillac’s larger push to add full bored V-Series models across the model lineup. Conveniently, the move also coincides with the demise of the CTS-V and ATS-V which will end their production runs next year.

To be honest, the move stinks like a short-term stopgap as the brand scrambles to fill an unacceptable hole in the very popular V-Series lineup, which has grown to gain a cult following among consumers in the know.

The CT6-V will arrive spring 2019, almost a full calendar year after it originally bowed in Manhattan. Look for it to feature Cadillac's new 4.2-liter "Blackwing" V8, which spits out 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque courtesy of its twin-turbo layout. Power is sent through GM's new 10-speed automatic transmission which in turn feeds all four wheels. The engine will also be available in a less aggressive format, with 500 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque on tap in the CT6 Platinum.

"Beginning with the debut of the CTS-V Sedan in 2004, the V-Series sub-brand sparked new life into Cadillac," Mark Reuss, executive vice president and president of GM Global Automotive Group and Cadillac, said in a statement. "As a result of the overwhelming response the CT6 V-Sport received when revealed in early 2018, we've decided to formally make it a V-Series, signaling the expansion of V-Series."

What’s sad though is that the “flagship” V-Series product is actually less impressive from a performance standpoint than the absolutely mental CTS-V, which sports GM’s face-melting 6.2-liter supercharged V8 good for 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of twist.

If Cadillac really wanted to get people’s attention and slaughter anything from Affalterbach, it should have given the CT6-V a version of GM’s new LT5 supercharged V8 which is kicking out 755 horsepower and 715 lb-feet of torque in the Corvette ZR1.

Regardless, what’s next up for the V-Series brand is unclear. Given the popularity of performance crossovers either the XT5 or the recently launched XT4 would be good candidates, as would the flagship Escalade, which is just begging for a supercharger to crown its current 6.2-liter V8.

The Cadillac CTS V-Sport Is Now A Great Used Bargain

It may not be a full V, but this is still an impressive sedan.

The third-gen Cadillac CTS was a big improvement over its predecessor. It was a car that signaled Cadillac would no longer cater to retirees in Florida and would begin taking the German and Japanese luxury automakers seriously. The second-gen model was a fine car with a bargain price, but Cadillac wanted the new CTS to compete with the Germans on price and performance. In the second generation, the CTS-V was a match for the BMW M5 for the price of an M3, but the third-gen car changed all of that.

The CTS-V is still the most powerful car in its segment with a 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V8 pumping out 640 horsepower. While it is still cheaper than German rivals, its $86,000 starting price isn’t too far off of an M5. Compare that to the old car, which started at $63,215, and the new car isn’t as much of a bargain. Luckily, Cadillac introduced a model below the CTS-V to split the price difference between the $54,000 V6 model and the M5-rivaling V. It’s called the CTS V-Sport, and like BMW M Sport or Lexus F Sport, it is meant to satisfy buyers who want the feel of a performance sedan without the crazy power and matching price tag.

A brand-new CTS V-Sport costs around $61,000, which is around $25,000 less than the CTS-V. As expected, the V-Sport isn’t as fast as the “real” V, but it's no slouch either. Power comes courtesy of a 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 420 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque going out to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic. If that engine sounds a bit familiar to you, it may be because a similar engine is found in the smaller ATS-V. The CTS V-Sport engine is called the LF3, while the ATS-V engine is known as the LF4 and features multiple improvements to produce more power.

This engine can scoot the roughly 4,000 pound CTS up to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, which is around the same as a more expensive Lexus GS-F. All of this performance does come at a cost, because the CTS is far from a perfect car. Although it competes against the Germans and Japanese cars on price, the Cadillac still feels a bit low rent on the interior. One of the biggest issues is with the Cadillac User Interface (CUE) infotainment system, which has been deemed as one of the worst in the segment. However, you may be willing to put up with the infotainment given how cheap these cars are on the used market.

We found prices for 2014 models starting at around $25,000 with reasonable mileage. Even a certified pre-owned model can be found for under $40,000, making the V-Sport a great used bargain.