2026 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing

Price Range: $97,600

Good

The 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is the last of a celebrated breed: the rear-wheel-drive, manual-transmission sport sedan. This is a driver's car to be sure, and like the rest of the CT5 family, the Blackwing significantly undercuts most of its competitors in price.Read full review

Rank #6

8 Midsize performance sedans

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Cadillac CT5 for Sale

Pricing

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What others are paying

$101,607

Low supply is pushing the market average above MSRP.

Prices based on sales in VA thru 6/29/26

Final assembly in USA

Pros

Thunderous performance from a supercharged V8
Available manual transmission
Balanced and rewarding handling
A bargain for what you get

Cons

Tight on headroom and trunk space
Interior materials not as premium as those in costlier German rivals

Overview

Written by automotive expert Jared Gall

Updated: 11/21/2025

An endearing throwback, the 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing carries on the original American performance formula of putting the biggest, most powerful engine possible into a midsize car. Its supercharged V8 is derived from those that propelled past Corvettes, and it's only available with rear-wheel drive. Cadillac even offers it with a six-speed manual transmission. The CT5-V Blackwing is a dinosaur, but a tremendously engaging and thrilling one.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Good

6.3

out of 10

We drove the 2026 Cadillac CT5 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Driving experience

9.3/10

How does the Cadillac CT5 drive? Our test car was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and we were able to rip to 60 mph in 4 seconds flat and fly through the quarter mile at nearly 124 mph. The optional 10-speed automatic promises to be even quicker. The manual is one of the best on sale today, offering quick, positive shifts with automatic rev matching if you so desire.

Panic stops from 60 mph were done in a scant 104 feet and the Cadillac pulled a heroic 1.08 g on our skidpad — both numbers best the results of the potent Audi RS 7. The steering feel and performance-oriented stability control systems are better still, allowing the CT5-V to be driven aggressively but with delicacy and precision.

One hallmark of the Blackwing is its adaptive magnetic suspension. The level of ride comfort and body control the Blackwing achieves is impressive.

Visibility out of the front is excellent, and thanks to the slim profile of the front seats, it's quite good to the sides as well. The sloping roofline does pinch visibility out the back, but the optional digital rearview mirror helps.

The advanced driver aids are just as good as anything else in the class, but only the automatic offers the full suite.

Comfort

7.7/10

How comfortable is the Cadillac CT5? The front seats manage to balance support and comfort, and we had no issue putting in a full day's worth of driving without an ounce of discomfort. The heated and ventilated seats work quickly and effectively.

The same is true for the climate control. There was no issue in warming or cooling the cabin quickly. Adding to the comfort is a quiet and well-insulated cabin. You'll have to be at full throttle to really hear the Blackwing's V8 engine, but it is a refined and powerful sound befitting a luxury performance sedan. There's a bit of road noise due to the performance tires but that's to be expected.

The CT5's 33-inch digital display goes a long way toward modernizing the Blackwing. The interior is simplified over previous models but remains easy to use. Our only real gripe is the somewhat befuddling steering wheel controls that plague all Cadillacs.

The CT5-V Blackwing is still a sedan, so it's easy for people of all ages and body types to slide into the comfortable seats. Only taller rear passengers might need to mind their heads. If you've got kids and use car seats, the CT5-V Blackwing has enough room in back to handle car seats of all sizes.

In-cabin tech

6.2/10

How’s the tech? In a segment known for complex and sometimes intimidating infotainment systems, the Cadillac's Google-based unit offers a straightforward and user-friendly interface. It's easier to understand and operate than some of the more complex systems you find in its German rivals too. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wireless, are easy to pair. The CT5 sports a curious lack of USB ports for a luxury sedan at this price, offering just one charge port for rear passengers.

Standard issue on the CT5-V Blackwing is an AKG audio system, which is good enough to not leave us wanting for an upgrade. The Cadillac's voice controls, powered by Google, are easy to use.

Storage & cargo

4.9/10

How’s storage and cargo? Storage might not be the first thing on a buyer's mind with a car like the CT5-V Blackwing, but it should be noted that the Cadillac offers far less trunk space, at 11.9 cubic feet, than the M5 (and considerably less than the M5 Touring or Audi RS 6 Avant wagons). That said, the cargo area of the CT5-V Blackwing is uncomplicated and will hold suitcases without having to be creative with how you arrange them.

Interior storage isn't particularly generous either, especially around the manual gear lever. There are enough options for smaller items, like sunglasses and access cards, but larger water bottles and anything other than basic personal effects won't have a lot of places to fit.

Value

7.7/10

Is the Cadillac CT5 a good value? If you value performance and the sheer joy of driving over luxury, the CT5-V Blackwing will seem like a bit of a bargain. It undercuts cars like the BMW M5 and the Audi RS 7 by tens of thousands of dollars and offers similar performance as well as the nearly extinct option of a six-speed manual transmission. But some potential buyers might balk at some of the car's interior materials or controls, which aren't as nice or upscale as those found in German sedans.

MPG

1/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates the CT5-V Blackwing — equipped with the manual or automatic — gets 15 mpg combined, and during our time with the Cadillac, we had no problem matching and exceeding that estimate. Our test vehicle had the manual and returned a solid 18 mpg overall. And on longer highway drives, we even exceeded 24 mpg in the Blackwing. Be aware: We also saw fuel economy dip under 5 mpg when it was driven aggressively during a track day.

X factor

10/10

If you don't like what the CT5-V Blackwing has to offer, you might want to look into buying a bus pass. Blending comfort, usability, performance, and the option of a terrific six-speed manual transmission, this Cadillac is simply one of the best sport sedans ever built. A grown-up enthusiast's car if there ever was one, there's a level of maturity at play in the Blackwing that is difficult to comprehend but is readily apparent after only a short time behind the wheel. Capable of crushing a thousand miles of highway driving or all day at a racetrack, the CT5-V represents the high water mark for the American sport sedan.

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2026 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing pricing in Ashburn, VA

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Build & Price

2026 Cadillac CT5 trim level differences

The 2026 Cadillac CT5 is a midsize luxury sedan available in Premium Luxury, Sport, V and Blackwing trim levels. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is standard (237 horsepower, 258 lb-ft) in the Premium Luxury and Sport. With the Premium Luxury trim, you can upgrade to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 (335 horsepower, 405 lb-ft), which is standard in the CT5-V, where it supplies a little more power (360 hp, 405 lb-ft). Both engines employ a 10-speed automatic transmission to turn the rear wheels, and all-wheel drive is available. Compare the 2026 Cadillac CT5 trim levels in-depth.

Which CT5 trim does Edmunds recommend?

The CT5-V Blackwing is one of a kind, and it only comes one way: loaded. Buyers choose between a manual or an automatic transmission — Super Cruise is not available on the former, as it requires control over the powertrain — and that's it. Most of the available options are appearance-related, with the notable exception of the Precision package.

Competitors to consider

The CT5-V Blackwing's competitive set leverages all-wheel drive and/or electrification for more blistering straight-line speed. The Audi RS 7 Performance, BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid are all all-wheel-drive, and the latter two are plug-in hybrids. The Cadillac is more affordable than them all, and with its supercharged V8, rear-wheel drive and standard six-speed manual transmission, the analog Cadillac has a flavor all its own.

Edmunds spotlight: Sharpening the sharpest CT5

Cadillac has created a clear performance hierarchy within the CT5 lineup: V, V Blackwing, and V Blackwing with the Precision package. Only available on the CT5-V Blackwing, the Precision package includes an uncommonly comprehensive suspension rework for an optional line item. Usually, such options are limited to dampers and bushings, but Cadillac includes a bevy of revised suspension pieces in the Performance package, granting the CT5 V's most hardcore customers even sharper responses on road courses. Commuters need not apply. And Cadillac's Performance Data Recorder, which records track footage from a front-facing camera and overlays it with real-time data like engine rpm, speed and lateral acceleration, is now standard.

Cadillac CT5 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.5

32 reviews

5(81%)

4(6%)

3(3%)

2(3%)

1(7%)

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2026 Cadillac CT5 Features & Specs

Type:

V Blackwing

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$97,600
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	15 MPG
Cost to Drive	$349/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	11.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Reliability

The 2026 Cadillac CT5 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and no recalls.

Recalls

There are no recalls for the 2026 Cadillac CT5

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 1 years / unlimited miles

Where the Cadillac CT5 ranks:

#6 in Midsize performance sedans

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FAQ

Is the Cadillac CT5 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2026 CT5 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 6.3 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the CT5 has 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Cadillac CT5. Learn more

Is the Cadillac CT5 reliable?

To determine whether the Cadillac CT5 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the CT5. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the CT5's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2026 Cadillac CT5 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2026 Cadillac CT5 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2026 CT5 and gave it a 6.3 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2026 CT5 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2026 Cadillac CT5?

The least-expensive 2026 Cadillac CT5 is the 2026 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $97,600.

Other versions include:

V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M) which starts at $97,600

Learn more

What are the different models of Cadillac CT5?

If you're interested in the Cadillac CT5, the next question is, which CT5 model is right for you? CT5 variants include V Blackwing 4dr Sedan (6.2L 8cyl S/C 6M). For a full list of CT5 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$349/mo

$231/mo

Avg. Large Car

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2026 Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing

Pricing

Pros

Cons

Overview

Edmunds Expert Rating

Driving experience

Comfort

In-cabin tech

Storage & cargo

Value

MPG

X factor

2026 Cadillac CT5 trim level differences

Which CT5 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Competitors to consider

Edmunds spotlight: Sharpening the sharpest CT5

Cadillac CT5 Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2026 Cadillac CT5 Features & Specs

Reliability

Recalls

Warranty

Where the Cadillac CT5 ranks:

Check a dealer's price

FAQ

Is the Cadillac CT5 a good car?

Is the Cadillac CT5 reliable?

Is the 2026 Cadillac CT5 a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2026 Cadillac CT5?

What are the different models of Cadillac CT5?

Cost to Drive