Cadillac CT4 Production Ends, But CT5 Lives On with Gas-Powered Successor, Raising Hopes for Future Blackwing
Cadillac has confirmed that its gas-powered CT4 sedan will end production in June 2026, followed by the current CT5 by the end of 2026. However, in a surprising turn, the CT5 will receive a gas-powered successor, defying earlier rumors of an electric-only replacement. This news offers a glimmer of hope for performance enthusiasts, raising the possibility of a future CT5-V Blackwing successor, although a manual option remains uncertain. While the CT4, the last small luxury sedan from an American automaker, bows out, Cadillac’s commitment to a combustion-powered CT5 signals that the brand isn’t entirely done with gas just yet, even as it experiences “massive growth in the electric crossover segment.”
End of an Era for CT4, Glimmer of Hope for CT5
Cadillac’s latest announcement clarifies the future of its acclaimed sports sedans.
- CT4 Discontinuation: The Cadillac CT4 will cease production in June 2026. It holds the distinction of being “the last small luxury sedan from an American automaker,” as other domestic brands have abandoned this segment.
- Current CT5 Ends: The current CT5 will conclude its production run by the end of 2026.
- Gas-Powered CT5 Successor: Contrary to earlier reports suggesting an all-electric future for both models, a gas-powered CT5 successor is confirmed to arrive for “a future model year,” to be built at GM’s Lansing Grand River Assembly plant. This offers a welcome surprise for traditional sedan enthusiasts.
- Leadership Confirmation: John Roth, Vice President, Global Cadillac, communicated these plans in a letter, which was confirmed by Car and Driver. Roth praised both vehicles for their “exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology, and superior craftsmanship.”
Uncertain Future for High-Performance Blackwings
The discontinuation of the current CT4 and CT5 means bidding farewell to their high-performance variants, with questions looming over future Blackwing models.
- Farewell to Current Blackwings: The CT4-V, CT4-V Blackwing, CT5-V, and CT5-V Blackwing models will also be discontinued.
- Manual Transmission Lament: The Blackwings will be particularly missed, as they represent a rapidly disappearing breed of “rear-wheel-drive sports sedans with manuals.”
- CT4-V Blackwing: Featured a 472-horsepower twin-turbo V6.
- CT5-V Blackwing: Known for its “monstrous 668 hp from its supercharged V8” and its distinction as the last V8 sports sedan with a manual transmission.
- Driver-Focused Experience: Despite lacking the “quality, refinement, or tech to match their German rivals,” both Blackwings were widely praised for delivering “class-best handling and driver feedback.”
- Hope for a New Blackwing: The confirmation of a new gas-powered CT5 successor “raises hopes of a future Blackwing,” though it’s uncertain if it will retain a manual transmission option.
Cadillac’s Commitment to ICE Sedans in an Electrified World
Cadillac’s decision stands out in an industry increasingly moving towards electrification and crossovers.
- Defying Rivals: It’s “refreshing to see” Cadillac’s commitment to gas-powered sedans, even as direct American rivals have “long given up on this category.”
- Rare Manual Sports Sedans: Beyond Cadillac, manual sports sedans are becoming exceedingly rare. While BMW’s M3 remains, and Infiniti’s Q50 might return with RWD and a manual, options are limited.
- Appreciation Imperative: The message is clear for enthusiasts: “Appreciate Cadillac’s sports sedan duo while you still can,” as these driver-focused machines are an increasingly rare breed.
Final Thoughts
Cadillac’s strategic decision to sunset the CT4 but develop a gas-powered successor for the CT5 highlights a nuanced approach to its future product lineup. While the brand is heavily investing in electric crossovers, it acknowledges a continuing demand for traditional, performance-oriented sedans. The potential for a new CT5-V Blackwing, even if it loses its manual, offers a beacon of hope for enthusiasts and marks Cadillac as a holdout in the shrinking segment of American gas-powered luxury sedans.
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