The 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing just clinched its spot on Car and Driver’s 10Best list—again. But this isn’t just another annual accolade. The Blackwing’s continued reign highlights a seismic shift in what enthusiasts and critics crave from modern sports sedans. In an era dominated by electrification, all-wheel-drive sophistication, and digital trickery, Cadillac’s old-school, V8-powered, rear-drive bruiser is still stealing the limelight.
Let’s dig into why this matters, what most people are missing, and what the Blackwing’s enduring success says about the future of high-performance cars.
Why This Matters
- A Rare Breed: With a supercharged 668-hp V8, six-speed manual, and rear-wheel drive, the CT5-V Blackwing is one of the last of its kind. Most rivals—think BMW M5, Audi RS7—have gone all-wheel drive and automatic-only, often with hybrid or electric assists.
- Price vs. Performance: The Blackwing’s base price (~$101,000) undercuts its main competitors, which are now so expensive they can’t even compete for 10Best honors. It’s a bargain for the driving experience it delivers.
- A Statement Against Homogenization: In a world of increasingly similar, tech-heavy sports sedans, the CT5-V Blackwing is unapologetically analog. It’s visceral, loud, and focused—qualities many thought were extinct in new cars.
What Most People Miss
- Precision Package Nuances: The $9,000 Precision package (plus $9,000 for carbon-ceramic brakes) isn’t just about lap times. It fundamentally changes the car’s character: firmer springs, stickier tires, and sharper electronics make it a track weapon, but some reviewers felt it erodes daily comfort. This is the trade-off for those chasing perfection.
- Manual Transmission as a Selling Point: The fact that you can still get a three-pedal setup is nearly miraculous. In 2026, this is a unicorn feature—and it’s not an afterthought, but a core part of the Blackwing’s appeal.
- Hand-Built Customization: Cadillac’s new “Curated by Cadillac” program lets buyers go wild, pushing the price to $150k+. This is a nod to the bespoke builds offered by European exotics, but at a (relatively) accessible price point.
Key Takeaways
- Zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds—plenty quick, even without all-wheel drive.
- Still offers manual transmission and RWD—rarities in today’s market.
- 668 horsepower supercharged V8—unchanged, and why would you want to change it?
- EPA combined fuel economy: 15 mpg. That’s thirsty, but nobody is buying a Blackwing for its eco-credentials.
- Top speed: 205 mph (estimated).
How the Blackwing Stacks Up: Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Unrivaled driver engagement
- Classic V8 soundtrack
- Good value compared to European rivals
- Still available with a manual
- Impressive customization options
- Cons:
- Thirsty at the pump
- Precision package sacrifices ride comfort
- Limited time offer—V8s are on borrowed time
Industry Context: Where Does the Blackwing Fit?
- The Blackwing’s direct rivals, like the new BMW M5 and Audi RS7, have gone upmarket both in price and tech, leaving a gap for analog thrills.
- With the EV wave rising, the Blackwing is likely the last V8 manual sedan from GM—maybe ever.
- The market is moving toward electrification and autonomy, but the sustained demand for the Blackwing proves there’s still a passionate subset of drivers who want to row their own gears and hear a V8 sing.
The Bottom Line
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing isn’t just a fast sedan—it’s a statement piece for car enthusiasts. It’s proof that there’s still room (for now) for analog, rear-drive, V8-powered fun in a world tilting toward digital sameness. If you want one, don’t wait. The sun is setting on this kind of car, and the Blackwing is going out on top.