What the 2023 Cadillac CT4 lacks in space and style, it makes up for in value and character. The four-door compact builds on a fun rear-wheel-drive design, but also offers all-wheel drive for those who live in the Snowbelt or prefer four-wheel stability. It feels good to drive, and its suspension is tough. But the most exciting prospect is definitely the CT4-V Blackwing, with its twin-turbo V6 that pits it against bigger performance sedans like the BMW M3. The Blackwing includes a manual transmission as standard.
At its core, the CT4 is an entry-level Cadillac, which comes with a few drawbacks, like a cramped back seat and small trunk—not ideal for hauling a quad to the golf course. The interior also isn't the most attractive or of the highest quality, but for a car starting at $30,000, that's certainly acceptable. This price point also helps make the CT4 an attractive purchase. Considering how fun and comfortable it is to drive, the CT4 could be the perfect choice for an everyday sedan.
What's new for 2023?
Later this year, we'll see three track-inspired versions of the CT-4 Blackwing: the Sebring IMSA Edition, the Watkins Glen IMSA Edition and the Road Atlanta IMSA Edition. Don't get excited about performance upgrades; These are the appearance packs. But they will be rare, as only 99 examples of each were built.
Otherwise not much new. The CT4 and CT4-V models get new paint colors at an additional cost: Radiant Red two-tone, Silver Metallic, and Midnight Metallic. The CT4-V Blackwing gets these, along with the Maverick Noir Frost for the Sebring IMSA edition that's coming later. Small 'Blackwing' lettering has also been added to the rear V badge.
What does the CT4 technology look like inside and outside the car?
We've criticized the design and quality of other Cadillac interiors, and although the CT4 looks a lot like this, its lower price and market positioning make it more competitive and well-rounded. It may not be as expressive as the Mercedes CLA-Class, but for the money, we don't think you'll be disappointed. More expensive models could be selected with features such as front seat massage and Super Cruise (late availability).
The infotainment system is controlled by an 8-inch touchscreen with a pair of redundant control knobs better suited for scrolling through playlists, radio stations, or other menu functions. One is adjacent to the screen and volume knob, while the larger one is located on the center console. We like this setup a lot and appreciate the clean looks and quick responses of the Cadillac system. The basic setup includes wirelessly connected Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as Amazon Alexa integration and a choice of USB Type-A and Type-C charging. Upgrades include navigation, multiple audio packages from Bose, and an AKG sound system exclusive to Blackwing. Wireless charging is added with those.
What is the size of the CT4?
Like many of Cadillac's previous sport sedans, the CT4 is a slightly odd size for the segment it's aimed at, coming in at about 9 inches longer than the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. However, this does not translate into a comparable interior space advantage due to the CT4's rear-wheel drive platform. Instead, things are effectively leveled so that cabin space is comparable to the 2 Gran Coupe, Mercedes CLA and Audi A3 in terms of leg, head and shoulder room.
The CT4's 10.9-cubic-foot trunk is not only one of the smallest in its class, but it's also one of the smallest in sedans. Still, we were able to fit as many pieces of luggage as in the Cadillac CT5—the larger sedan had more room, but only for a shopping bag or two. In fact, the days of Cadillac trunks looking like this are long gone.
What are the performance and fuel economy specifications of the CT4?
Cadillac offers its minivan in three trim levels. The Sport and Luxury models are equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This is the most efficient primary engine in the class. Like all CT4 models without the Blackwing name, it comes standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission, Active Fuel Management (it can run on just two cylinders to save fuel) and rear-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive is an option. EPA-rated fuel economy is 23 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 27 mpg with rear-wheel drive and 22/31/26 with all-wheel drive. ).
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