For enthusiasts accustomed to the thunderous roar of a V8 from Cadillac’s V-Series, the 2020 Ct4-V might initially raise eyebrows. Instead of the expected displacement, this model arrives with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, dismissing it based on cylinder count alone would be a mistake.
The heart of the 2020 CT4-V is a potent 2.7-liter turbocharged engine, delivering an impressive 325 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This output surpasses the Premium Luxury trim, offering an additional 15 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque, making it a significant step up in performance. Power is channeled to either the rear wheels or, as in our test model, all four wheels via a smooth and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. Think of it as a sophisticated, four-door iteration of the Camaro, blending luxury with a sporty edge.
Image of the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V front quarter view showcasing its sleek design and V-Series badging.
Performance and Driving Dynamics of the 2020 CT4-V
Does this downsized engine Cadillac truly embody the spirit of the V name? Our review delves into the driving experience to find out. Behind the wheel, the 2.7-liter turbo engine impresses with its readily available power. The torque delivery is remarkably flat, eliminating any noticeable turbo lag and providing immediate responsiveness when you demand acceleration.
While the exhaust note is present, it’s more subdued than the traditional V8 rumble. Think of it as comparable to the Ford Mustang Ecoboost – audible and sporty, but not soul-stirring. It lacks the visceral thrill of a classic LS engine or a small-block Ford, focusing instead on refined performance.
The 10-speed automatic transmission in the 2020 CT4-V is controlled by a conventional shifter, eschewing buttons or knobs for a more traditional feel. Paddle shifters are also included for those who desire manual gear selection. In everyday driving scenarios, the transmission performs admirably. However, even in Track mode, it exhibits a strong tendency to upshift quickly, often settling into cruising at around 1200 rpm. Manual downshifts and upshifts, while available, aren’t executed with the immediacy expected in a dedicated track car. This characteristic suggests the 2020 CT4-V, while sporty, leans more towards comfortable and quick daily driving rather than hardcore track performance.
Interior view of the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V highlighting the driver-centric cockpit and traditional shifter.
Interior and Comfort Features
Stepping inside the 2020 CT4-V, you’ll find a cabin that strikes a near-perfect balance between classic and contemporary design. Cadillac has opted for physical buttons for essential functions like the HVAC system, a welcome departure from purely touchscreen-based controls. Adjusting the temperature or fan speed is intuitive and immediate, without requiring navigation through digital menus. While a touchscreen is present for infotainment and other vehicle settings, it doesn’t dominate the dashboard, allowing for quick and easy access to frequently used controls. The interior feels both modern and familiar, avoiding a dated aesthetic while maintaining user-friendliness. Traditional gauges further enhance this blend, providing clear and easily readable driving information.
The chassis of the 2020 CT4-V feels solid and well-composed. Its long wheelbase, coupled with well-tuned shocks and a substantial footprint, contributes to a planted and stable ride. Even in Track mode, the ride remains surprisingly comfortable, reinforcing its Cadillac DNA of refined driving experience. The steering wheel is praised for its excellent feel, and the seats offer good support. Rear passenger space is somewhat limited, which is expected in a compact sedan, but the overall focus remains on driver and front passenger comfort.
Rear three-quarter view of the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V emphasizing its sporty stance and exhaust outlets.
Value Proposition of the 2020 CT4-V
In today’s automotive landscape, the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V stands out as a compelling value proposition. Even with all-wheel drive, the V-Series performance package, and destination charges, our test car stickered at a reasonable $48,615. Considering the escalating prices in the market, where even a Jeep can reach $65,000, the 2020 CT4-V offers a significant amount of performance and luxury for the price.
Conclusion: A Worthy V-Series Contender
The 2020 Cadillac CT4-V represents a modern interpretation of the V-Series lineage. While it may not possess the traditional V8 rumble, its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers impressive power and torque, providing a genuinely sporty driving experience. The blend of comfortable yet composed handling, a well-designed interior with user-friendly controls, and a competitive price point makes the 2020 CT4-V a worthy contender in the compact luxury performance sedan segment. It may be a departure from V-Series tradition in engine configuration, but it successfully upholds the core values of performance and Cadillac luxury.
