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Introduction:

To help members understand the latest automotive technology so they can purchase vehicles that best suit their needs, the Automobile Club of Southern California's Automotive Research Center (ARC) began testing and reviewing vehicles over a decade ago

For the 2023 edition, we include testing and ranking cars and light trucks with the latest technology, including having at least one advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) feature. In addition to vehicle evaluation, the guide covers a number of pertinent automotive topics in detail—for example, the latest advanced safety features, how to properly maintain your vehicle, and new vehicles coming to market in the next few years.

2022 Cadillac CT4 V-Series Blackwing

Vehicle Type: Small Gasoline
83
 overall score
Category Ranking: 3

Vehicle Price

Base Price: $58,995
Price as Tested: $80,265

Fuel Information

Fuel Type: Premium
Fuel Capacity (gal): 17
EPA City mpg16
EPA Highway mpg24
EPA Combined mpg19

Advanced Safety Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control [O]
  • Advanced Headlights [S]
  • Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
  • Blind-Spot Warning [S]
  • Forward-Collision Warning [S]
  • Lane-Departure Warning [S]
  • Lane-Keeping Assistance [S]
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Warning [S]
  • Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking [O]
  • [S] Standard, [O] Optional

Overall Observations

Traditionally, Cadillacs have been known for luxury and prestige, not sporty performance. That changed in 2016 with the compact ATS-V coupe and sedan, created to challenge German sports sedans. The CT4 sedan replaced the ATS-V in 2020, and the CT-4V Blackwing - a high-performance variant introduced in 2022 - carries on the tradition. It’s been dubbed a "track-ready rocket ship" by the motoring press. Traditionally, Cadillacs have been known for luxury and prestige, not sporty performance. That changed in 2016 with the compact ATS-V coupe and sedan, created to challenge German sports sedans. The CT4 sedan replaced the ATS-V in 2020, and the CT-4V Blackwing—a high-performance variant introduced in 2022—carries on the tradition. It’s been dubbed a “track-ready rocket ship” by the motoring press. The good-looking Blackwing is a blast to drive, with strong performance from the turbo V6 (472 hp), plus adjustable drive modes, suspension, and steering that make a real difference in the way the car responds. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard; a 10-speed automatic is optional. AEB, LKA, BSW, and RCTW are standard. Additional ADAS features require an automatic transmission. If you like to head to the track on weekends, the ’Wing has an optional data recorder that captures your driving experience, including real-time video, in-cabin audio, and performance data. Nonetheless, the Blackwing’s ride is comfortable enough for it to serve as a daily driver. Other positive qualities: an intuitive infotainment sysatem, high-quality overall fit and finish, a decent-size trunk, and plenty of standard features, including LED headlights with auto high beams. Compromises include a somewhat cramped cabin, especially in the rear; limited visibility due to the high rear deck; awkward entry and exit because of the low roofline; and stiff, uncomfortable seating.

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Strengths and Weaknesses

Strong Points

  • • Sharp exterior and interior styling
  • • Responsive engine, smooth ride
  • • Fun to drive; adjustable drive modes
  • • High-quality fit and finish

Weak Points

  • • Poor all-around visibility because of high rear deck
  • • Cramped interior, especially in the backseat
  • • Low roofline makes entry and exit difficult
  • • Stiff, uncomfortable seats

Vehicle Specifications

Model year tested: 2022
Number of passengers (F/R): 2/3
Curb weight (lbs): 3940.0
Exterior L / W / H (in): 187.6 / 71.4 / 56.0
Wheelbase (in): 109.3
Number of air bags: 9
Warranty (months/miles): 48/50,000
Tire manufacturer and model: Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S
Front and rear tire size: 255/35 ZR18
Max towing capacity (lbs): 1,000
Headlight type: LED
Transmission type: Auto 10-speed
Drivetrain type: Rear wheel
Engine/motor: 3.6L V6 twin-turbo
Engine horsepower @ RPM: 472 @ 5,750

Test Data

Test Vehicle Scores

Advanced Safety Features:

8.40

Fuel Efficiency:

3.54

EPA Emissions Score:

5.00

Acceleration:

8.39

Braking:

9.30
Handling: 9.41
Quality and Drivability: 8.78

Ride Quality:

7.68

Interior Size:

3.60

Easy of Entry and Exit:

5.87

Visibility:

6.53

Interior Noise:

6.35

Cargo Capacity:

.61
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