Eric Stafford, with Car and Driver , wroteGreatness is often measured in physical strength, and the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwings punch is Herculean. Its superpowers include communicative steering, a well-balanced ride, racetrack-capable handling, and a 472-hp twin-turbo V-6 that pairs nicely with sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and rear-wheel drive. While not as brazen as the bigger 668-hp CT5-V Blackwing, a six-speed manual-equipped model we tested did post an impressive 4.0-second launch to 60 mph and crossed the quarter-mile mark in 12.4 seconds at 116 mph. Unfortunately, in the mythos of top-tier sports sedans, the CT4-V Blackwing isn't immortal; along with its CT5-V Blackwing big brother, it is likely the final chapter of high-octane, gas-fed performance from Cadillac.
Our first driving impressions revealed the Blackwing sounds better than its ATS-V predecessor, has loads of steering feedback, and possesses one of the best ride-handling balances in its class. Every model is fitted with adaptive dampers, an electronic limited-slip differential, and a powerful braking system that make it racetrack-ready. At our own test track, we saw the CT4-V Blackwing hit 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, post 1.01 gs on our skid pad, and stop from 70 mph in 153 feet. While all three stats trail the 503-hp BMW M3 Competition we tested, the Caddy feels more alive and does a better job of communicating with the driver.
The CT4-V Blackwings interior has some additional frills compared with the regular CT4 lineupthink carbon-fiber trim, microsuede accents, and more supportive front seats. Otherwise, the design and layout are identical to its toned-down siblings. Cadillac hasn't exactly exceeded expectations with the quality of the Blackwings cabin, but there's certainly no shortage of fancy features on the roster. The 'Wing comes standard with a 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster and specially bolstered front seats with 18-way power adjustments and heated cushions.