THE ONLY TWIN-TURBO V6 SEDAN AVAILABLE WITH A MANUAL TRANSMISSION IN 2025

In the evolving landscape of sports sedans, where performance and luxury intersect, enthusiasts often find themselves navigating a sea of options. The market these days is replete with models boasting impressive outputs, modern tech, and sleek designs. Brands like BMW and Audi have long dominated this segment, each offering their own interpretation of the ultimate driving machine.

Yet, amid this competitive arena, there's a unique contender, setting itself apart with a distinctive combination of features that cater specifically to the purist driver. This sedan not only delivers exhilarating performance but also offers a driving experience that is becoming increasingly rare in today's automotive world. And the best part is that it comes from an American brand.

Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: The Only Twin-Turbo Manual Sedan in 2025

In 2025, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing stands alone as the sole twin-turbocharged V6 sedan available with a manual transmission. This distinction makes it a beacon for driving enthusiasts who cherish the tactile engagement of a stick shift, combined with the potent performance of a twin-turbo engine.

Under the hood, the CT4-V Blackwing houses a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing an impressive 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. This motor propels the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds when equipped with the available 10-speed automatic transmission, and 4.2 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual gearbox. The top speed stands at 189 mph.

The availability of a manual transmission in the CT4-V Blackwing is particularly noteworthy. In an era where automatic transmissions dominate due to their efficiency and ease of use, Cadillac's decision to offer a manual option caters to enthusiasts and purists who relish the hands-on control and connection to the driving experience that only a manual can provide. This commitment to driver engagement sets the CT4-V Blackwing apart in the modern sports sedan market.

Pure Twin-Turbo V6 Power

The heart of the CT4-V Blackwing is its robust 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with no form of electrification. As said above, it delivers 472 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and 445 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine's design incorporates advanced technologies to optimize performance, including dual overhead camshafts, direct injection, and an air-to-water intercooler system that ensures consistent power delivery even under demanding conditions.

The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, featuring an active rev matching system and a no-lift shift tech, allowing drivers to maintain accelerator position during shifts. For those who prefer an automatic, a 10-speed transmission is available as an option, offering quicker gear changes and adaptive shift scheduling to suit various driving styles.

Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing Tech Details

• Suspension: Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, adaptive dampers adjust up to 1,000 times per second
• Brakes: 14.96-inch rotors with 6-piston Brembo calipers (front) and 13.4-inch rotors with 4-piston Brembo calipers (rear)
• Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, 275/35ZR18 (rear) and 255/35ZR18 (front)
• Exhaust system: Active exhaust with adjustable sound modes
• Weight distribution: Near 50/50 balance between front and rear
• LSD: Electronically controlled

The CT4-V Blackwing's chassis is engineered for agility and precision. It features Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, the latest iteration of Cadillac's adaptive suspension technology, which reads the road up to 1,000 times per second to adjust damping for optimal handling and comfort. An electronic limited-slip rear differential enhances traction and cornering capability.

Stopping power is provided by Brembo performance brakes, equipped with 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers. These brakes offer a confident pedal feel and are designed to withstand the rigors of high-performance driving, making them suitable for both spirited road use and track sessions.

High Performance Doesn’t Come Cheap

The 2025 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing starts at $63,590, which includes the twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 LF4 gas engine as standard. Output is rated at a maximum of 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, all of which is directed to the rear axle by way of a six-speed manual transmission as standard. The GM 10-speed automatic transmission is optional for an additional $2,275.

For those seeking added flair and functionality, the 2025 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing offers various options and packages as well. The Carbon Fiber 1 Package is priced at $4,950, while the Carbon Fiber 2 Package is available for $6,650. These packages enhance the vehicle's aerodynamics and aesthetic with exterior and interior visual add-ons.

Additional options include the Technology Package at $725, the Climate Package at $600, and a power sunroof for $1,050. Buyers can also opt for different wheel designs and interior accents to further personalize the machine.

Powerful Competitors From Germany

While the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing is a standout choice for customers in the sports sedan segment, it faces stiff competition from other high-performance sports sedans. A trio of German performance cars is what enthusiasts often compare the CT4-V to.

BMW M3

The BMW M3 is an icon in the high-performance sedan world. Powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, the current iteration of the M3 produces 473 horsepower and 406 lb/ft of torque in its standard form, while the Competition variant boosts output to 503 hp. Unlike the CT4-V Blackwing, which exclusively offers rear-wheel drive, the M3 gives buyers the option of all-wheel drive for better traction. A 6-speed manual remains available for those who prefer full control, but most M3 buyers opt for the 8-speed automatic for quicker shifts. 2025 M3 prices start at $77,175.

BMW M3 Key Specs

Source: BMW

Audi RS5 Sportback

The Audi RS5 Sportback brings a different approach to the high-performance sports sedan formula. Unlike the fast Caddy, it relies on quattro all-wheel drive for maximum grip and stability. Under the hood, a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 delivers 444 horsepower and 442 lb/ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While the RS5 Sportback lacks a manual transmission option, it compensates with a sleek fastback design, a more luxurious interior, and a reputation for refined performance. However, its heavier weight and focus on daily comfort make it feel less raw and engaging than the CT4-V Blackwing. Prices for the 2025 RS5 Sportback start at $79,900.

Audi RS5 Sportback Key Specs

Source: Audi

Mercedes-AMG C63

The Mercedes-AMG C63 has undergone a radical transformation, moving away from its V8 heritage. The 2025 C63 now features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a hybrid system, producing a staggering 671 horsepower and 752 lb/ft of torque. It is by far the most powerful of the group, but it abandons the traditional internal combustion engine experience that purists love. With a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, it delivers brutal acceleration, but at the cost of a heavier curb weight and a less engaging driving feel compared to the CT4-V Blackwing’s manual, rear-wheel-drive setup. While technologically advanced, the new C63 caters more to high-tech performance than raw, driver-focused excitement. Prices for the 2025 C63 start at $86,050.

Mercedes-AMG C63 Key Specs

Source: Audi

Article source: Cadillac, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz

2025-03-08T08:46:44Z