Over time the types of cars that are the most successful change, and manufacturers must adjust or they will fail. With the introduction of the CT5-V, Cadillac is taking a stance that they are willing to restructure to meet the demand of the consumers. Turning to compete with luxury brands such as BMW, Audi, and Mercedes, the new CT5-V sets the stage for the next generation of Cadillac.

The CT5-V replaces the CTS-V

The new CT5-V is designed to replace the older, more expensive CTS-V that Cadillac owners have come to know and love as a powerful and luxurious model. While its predecessor started around $80,000 brand new, the CT5-V is more affordable and said to start around $40,000 making it a better competitor for the more popular BMW 3 series.

The new CT5-V continues the heritage of older Cadillacs in its styling. The slim LED day running lights and headlights waterfall down the front of the car in traditional Cadillac styling. A beautiful gloss-black honeycomb grille frames the Cadillac badge proudly, and the split front lip makes the car look aggressive and modern. The striking body lines of the car wrap around the side and follow the car all the way to the back. A small spoiler mounted to the trunk is enough to give the back character without detracting from the new stunning design of the LED taillights.

Power and Handling matches CTS-V performance

So the CT5-V is designed to replace the popular CTS-V, but how does the power and handling compare? The CTS-V offered a supercharged 6.2L V8 that boasted a sporty 640 hp and paired with magnetic ride control for that ultimate luxury experience. The CT5-V has 360 hp from the twin-turbo boosted engine – though speculation leads us to believe a supercharged version is also in the car’s future. An all-wheel-drive option is also available, giving it an extra edge against cars like the BMW M34i and the Audi S4 quattro.

The CT5-V has striking and luxurious interior

The interior of the CT5-V is a beautiful display of the luxury Cadillac has to offer. Beautiful carbon fiber detailing fills the car and lines the dash in a sporty yet beautiful way, contrasting the brighter brushed aluminum detailing. The dashboard features the updated 10-inch infotainment screen that perches above a series of control buttons. The carbon fiber of the dash flows down to the center console and wraps around the selection knob and sporty gear shifter. The rich leather seats are comfortable and stylish, and the front seats feature power adjustment. The back seats have the same beautiful leather as the front and offer plenty of space for passengers of any height.

For a more affordable performance luxury car, Cadillac‘s new CT5-V sure makes a statement. Will it be enough to entice BMW and Audi owners to make the switch? Only time will tell.