Price (as tested) 💲: $125,440
Powertrain ⚙️: 6.2-liter Supercharged V8
Output 💪: 668 hp/659 lb-ft of torque
Transmission 🕹: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 MPH 🚦: 3.6 seconds
Top Speed 💥: 205 mph
MPG (as tested) ⛽️: 13 city/21 hwy/15 combined
Curb weight ⚖️: 4,092 lbs
This 2023 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Anniversary Edition is the first new car I’ve ever purchased.
There have been a number of great used vehicles parked in various garages and parking spaces over my life, and even a new lease for a year or so, but it took the most precise combination of exhilarating performance, analog engagement, and practical layout to convince me to buy new.
I’ve never reviewed a car more than twice. There’s a first drive event, and then months later – if I’ve felt the best secrets of a vehicle haven’t been fully laid out during my brief initial encounter – I’ll book a follow up loan. Some ownership woes may not unravel until months into stewardship, but after a week of thorough testing, I’ll have a solid grip on build quality, quirks, comforts, and performance.
I reviewed the Blackwing 4 times.
Each time, I unlocked a new, enticing side of the car. The first drive sold me on its chassis dynamics and powertrain. The first loan opened my eyes to its ride compliance and seat comfort. Another loan (automatic version) convinced me that while the 10-speed was well sorted, the 6-speed manual variant was the one worth having. The final encounter put all the pieces together and assured me that this was the best driving sedan – in all scenarios – I’d ever experienced.
The wildest part of each loan wasn’t the new revelations, it was the fact that the savory memory of the car lingered in my mind like no other press vehicle before. I am incredibly fortunate to drive the best new cars on the planet, but a family sedan stole my heart.
The CT5-V Blackwing will live on for a number of years, no doubt with a more hardcore and exclusive variant to come before it’s retired, but it will be the last of its kind. Manual, rear-drive, V8-powered 4-door sedans are finished, but their niche sunsets with the most vibrant flare.
I’m excited to share my ownership experience and a new interview segment with automotive personalities I admire. Stay tuned!