Reviews are in on the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V, and consumers are going to be excited to check it out once COVID-19 closures are over and showroom floors open back up. MotorTrend took the all-wheel-drive beauty for a first test and questioned whether it is the “biggest, baddest subcompact, or cheapest compact sport sedan.“

First drive of the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V

MotorTrend was impressed with the performance of the custom-tailored 2.7-liter turbo engine. Sharing the same block and head design with the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups, the CT4-V ramps 325 hp with 380 lb-ft of torque. The sedan’s powerful delivery and 23 city/28 highway mpg fuel efficiency are made possible by the active-fuel-management system. Road testers found the responsive handling of the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V led to an enjoyable driving experience. 

Where the CT4-V succeeds

Cadillac also debuted the CT4 and CT5 this year, but the CT4-V is considered to be the top-performing model. MotorTrend felt the rear-drive-biased chassis delivered a smoother ride in comparison to other sedans that utilize a transverse-engine base.

Reviewers applauded the “benchmark transmission tuning,” noting “the Hydra-Matic 10L60 keeps the engine humming between the optimal points on the power and torque curves. It always finds the ideal gear for every situation, and it quickly senses when you’re going for it.”

Drivers noticed little vibration and especially enjoyed the “variable exhaust snarl punctuated by fuel-cut snorts during shifts and overruns.”

Where the CT4-V fails

MotorTrend didn’t have many negative thoughts but did note that the 2.7-liter intake engine sounded a little louder than other vehicles in the segment. Car and Driver reviewed the 2020 Cadillac CT4-V and found the “rear end has an odd, almost boattail-esque treatment.” They felt the exterior design didn’t do much to allow it to stand out from the standard CT4 model.

How the CT4-V compares to its competitors

The 2020 Cadillac CT4-V manages to stand out in the midsize sedan segment as an entry-level luxury sedan. Compared to the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe, the vehicle handles the road nicely with an easier-on-the-wallet sticker price.

The CT4-V has a noticeably faster braking speed of 104 feet from 60 mph, which is five feet less than its competitors. MotorTrend was impressed with both the steering and acceleration capabilities. They consider the CT4-V to be “a direct rival to the Audi S3 and Mercedes-AMG A35.” The CT4-V offers great value, coming in between $5,000 to $11,000 less than other compact sedans.

The CT4-V is longer than other cars in its class, adding an additional 175 to 220 pounds to the weight of the vehicle. The CT4-V is 8 to 11 inches longer than most other subcompact sedans. Interestingly enough, it is also longer than competitor midsize sedans. It is two inches longer than the Mercedes-AMG C43 and just a hair longer than the Audi S4. This extra length doesn’t make the inside bigger, with competitors offering better rear legroom. The trunk is larger in all of the sedans in its class except for the BMW M235i. This makes the extended length a peculiar choice for Cadillac.

Is the Cadillac CT4-V worth a look?

Take the time to sit behind the wheel of the Cadillac CT4-V. When the pandemic subsides and test drives become a thing again, take this luxury ride out for a spin. MotorTrend suggests hitting a road full of curves to feel its superior performance capabilities. Cadillac got it right when they combined both power and performance in a classic design. It’s definitely worth taking a look.