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2022 CADILLAC CT4-V BLACKWING ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION RIVALS BMW M3

Everything You’ll Wanna Know About The Entry-Level Blackwing

With the debut of the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing models, Cadillac has potentially just rolled out their two greatest attempts in the sports sedan segment yet. And while the V8-powered range-topper is sure to get the most love, the CT4-V Blackwing isn’t just your average sedan. Here is everything you need to know about the new 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing engine and transmission options.

As our readers might know, MC&T was the first to confirm that the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is powered by the same 3.6L twin-turbo V6 as the outgoing ATS-V. The familiar turbocharged engine produces 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft torque in CT4-V Blackwing spec, however. In order to boost the engine output for the Blackwing, Cadillac made some performance-minded adjustments to the motor. These include the installation of a manifold-integrated water-to-air charge cooling system, retargeted piston oil squirters, and revised crankshaft counterweights that reduce main/rod bearing reciprocating loads. Furthermore, Cadillac has matched the turbocharger compressors for peak efficiency at peak power, which is a desirable trait on track. Engine airflow has been adjusted for peak performance, with intake restriction improved by 39 percent over the ATS-V. Airflow routing volume has also been reduced by 60 percent when compared to a conventional design.

2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
Image Via Cadillac.

With just under 500 horsepower on tap, Cadillac says that the CT4-V Blackwing will be capable of reaching a top speed of 189 mph. Furthermore, the automaker estimates a 0-60 sprint time of just 3.8 seconds for automatic-equipped models. For comparison, the 668 horsepower CT5-V Blackwing takes just 3.7 seconds to go from 0-60 mph. Not a bad time then for the “baby” Blackwing.

A six-speed Tremec manual transmission is standard on the CT4-V Blackwing, which is a welcome sight in today’s DCT obsessed market. A LuK twin-disc clutch should bring great pedal feel, and should have no issues with the 445 lb-ft of torque coming from the CT4-V Blackwing’s engine. Cadillac is also hopeful that their new physical barrier stop for the clutch pedal will provide drivers with a better feel than a traditional hydraulic master cylinder. Speaking of pedals, GM has gone out of their way to ensure that this car’s pedal box is well suited for heel-and-toe downshifting on track. Should your skills be a little rusty, active rev-matching is available via a dash-mounted toggle switch. Like its bigger brother, the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing transmission allows for no-lift shifting. Cadillac has even programmed the engine to keep the turbos spooled up in between shifts, which should help shave down lap times. In order to ensure the gearbox in responsive lap after lap, the car also comes with upgraded transmission and rear differential cooling. The shifter throw is also shorter than it was on the outgoing ATS-V.

2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
Image Via Cadillac.

Cadillac will also be offering a 10-speed automatic transmission for the anti-manual folks. The gearbox provides more ratios than any other sedan in the segment, which should help to keep the twin-turbo V6 pushing out peak power. The driver will be able to shift the gearbox manually via a pair of magnesium shift paddles, though the gearbox features its own performance shift mapping as well. In Sport Mode, the gearbox will automatically adjust to reduce shift busyness and improve performance. Furthermore, Dynamic Performance Mode is calibrated to deliver track-focused shift patterns, and will automatically activate when high g-forces are detected in either Sport or Track mode.

Cadillac utilized 24 hour track testing to ensure that the transmission can take a beating, resulting in a unique oil pan design and priority valve changes. An auxiliary pump has also been installed to help the gearbox shift better upon startup. It is worth noting that automatic-equipped cars will miss out on titanium connecting rods found on the manual variants.

Reservations for the 2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing open up tonight via Cadillac’s Reserve Yours page. While it isn’t nearly as expensive its LT4 V8-powered sibling, the CT4-V Blackwing still carries and MSRP of at $59,990. Cadillac says that delivers of the two sports sedans are expected to begin in late summer 2021.

2022 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
Image Via Cadillac.

Written by Lucas Bell

Lucas holds a journalism degree from Wayne State University, and is a Automotive Press Association scholarship recipient. While an American muscle fan through and through, he once wrote a fascinating comparison review about eScooters.

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