2020 Cadillac CT5 Review

Introduction

In recent years, coupe-inspired designs on regular family sedans have captured the attention of car buyers. Today, these stylish, elegant-looking cars occupy various genres across multiple price brackets, with a vast majority found in the midsize segment. One of the latest models to join this lineup is the 2020 Cadillac CT5. Unveiled at last year’s New York International Auto Show and based on GM’s versatile Alpha 2 architecture, the CT5 shares its basic underpinnings with the smaller Cadillac CT4 and the all-new Chevy Camaro.

With the CT5, GM's upscale division aims to build on the former CTS’s success, enhancing their luxury sedan market presence with future-proof technology, efficient drivetrains, increased comfort, and an eye-catching exterior design. In markets like the Middle East, the Cadillac CT5 competes against well-established rivals such as the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Jaguar XE, and Lexus IS.

Exterior Design

When choosing a car in the luxury segment, the exterior design is a crucial factor that Cadillac has not overlooked. The suave appearance of the new CT5 exudes panache and sophistication while maintaining the charm and modernity expected of an American upscale automaker. The extended hood meets the upswept headlamps and chiseled bumper seamlessly, while the lower portion of the front bumper showcases sporty styling with sharp angles.

The most noticeable highlight on the side profile of the new CT5 is its svelte, sloping roof that follows a typical ‘fastback’ design language. The composed yet sporty posture of this coupe-esque sedan definitely provides onlookers with eye-catching aesthetics. The steeply sloped backend carries forward the sedan’s charming appearance with design elements such as:

• Integrated rear spoiler
• Ultra-modern 3D LED tail lamp units
• Wedge-shaped bumper featuring twin rear pipes and an air diffuser

Interior Comfort

Inside, the Cadillac CT5 employs a straightforward and user-friendly design. Most controls are intuitively placed, while materials such as open-pore wood, stitched soft-touch leather, metallic accents, and faux carbon-fiber add a touch of elegance. However, compared to some chief rivals, the overall quality and fit-and-finish of certain plastics in this cabin leave much to be desired.

Thankfully, the sporty-looking seats in the CT5 provide a good mix of comfort and grip, especially in the front. Cadillac has also worked on improving NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, ensuring that the interior remains quiet and pleasant, even on less-than-ideal surfaces. Despite the sloping roof, headroom is decent and should not be a major concern for most occupants. Additionally, the Cadillac CT5 comes equipped with:

• 10-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless smartphone charger
• 15-speaker Bose premium sound system
• Heated and cooled front seats
• Magnesium shift paddles
• Heads-up display

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2020 Cadillac CT5 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 237 hp and 350 Nm of peak torque. Driving the rear wheels through a 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission, the CT5 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds, with a top speed estimated at 209 km/h. While the CT5 is not underpowered by any means, those prioritizing driving pleasure may find this elegant sedan lacking.

Verdict

With prices in the UAE starting at AED 145,000, the 2020 Cadillac CT5 offers a competitive value, especially compared to some of its German rivals. In conclusion, the CT5 is a decent package, but it may not deliver the excitement you might expect.