2023 Cadillac CT4 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.
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Cadillac produces one of the market’s most underrated small luxury sedans. Not only is the new 2023 Cadillac CT4 competitively priced, but it also comes loaded with a nice selection of standard features. Another highlight is the sedan’s precise driving dynamics. While even the least expensive trim is a pleasure to drive, performance-hungry motorists will especially love the electrifying CT4-V Blackwing.
For the 2023 model year, the CT4 receives no groundbreaking changes. However, Cadillac did update the sedan with three new exterior color options. There are five trim grades available: Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, CT-V, and CT4-V Blackwing. Here’s a rundown of how these new CT4 trims compare.
Compare the CT4 Luxury vs Premium Luxury Trims. What is the difference?
Most experts consider the entry-level CT4 Luxury to be a standout value. Prices start at around $35,800, which makes it significantly less expensive than the Audi A4 and the BMW 3 Series. Although the CT4’s European rivals may feel a bit more upscale, the majority of car shoppers will find the car’s level of luxuriousness to be more than sufficient.
The CT4’s powertrain features a turbo four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission promotes a smooth and responsive performance. When equipped with this powertrain, road tests show the CT4 is capable of delivering a 0-60 mph time of 7.0 seconds.
While a rear-wheel-drive layout comes standard, buyers can improve wet-weather traction by opting for Cadillac’s AWD system. Fuel economy stands at an EPA-calculated 23 mpg in town and 34 mpg on the freeway. Selecting all-wheel drive reduces efficiency to 22 mpg in town and 31 mpg on the freeway. Like the majority of its competitors, the CT4 Luxury is tuned to use premium gasoline.
The CT4 Luxury’s standard suspension is calibrated to focus more on ride comfort. However, it’s still athletic enough to keep most drivers engaged.
This trim’s cabin is packed with enough amenities to promote a satisfying driving experience. Power-operated front seats with two-way lumbar control, a leather-covered steering wheel, and Inteluxe synthetic leather seating surfaces come standard. Dual-zone automatic temperature control is another comfort-enhancing feature.
Although Cadillac’s infotainment system doesn’t have the largest screen, its 8.0-inch touch display is uncomplicated to operate. Wireless smartphone connectivity allows drivers to integrate their mobile device. Another big feature is the interface’s built-in 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, which enables all passengers to obtain a secure connection to the internet. Other key infotainment features include Bluetooth and voice-command technology.
When on the go, drivers can use the sedan’s wireless charger to power up their phone. Remote start is another valuable feature that comes standard on the CT4 Luxury. Fortunately, this trim’s eight-speaker audio system does not sound bad. HD Radio and satellite radio are included as well.
As expected, the CT4 Luxury receives a mandated backup camera. HD graphics enable drivers to obtain a clear view of any rearward obstructions. When there’s a child or pet sitting in the backseat, Rear Seat Reminder makes sure the driver doesn’t forget.
This entry-level trim also benefits from a standard Smart Safety package. When encountering unexpected pedestrians crossing the street, the sedan can automatically trigger the brakes. Designed to warn drivers of potential hazards, GM’s vibrating Safety Alert Seat adds more protection. Other confidence boosters include forward collision alert, rear parking sensors, and blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert.
To help parents experience less worry, Cadillac equips the sedan with a Teen Driver system. Before they can even shift into gear, youngsters must first buckle up. The Teen driver system also enables you to set a maximum speed limit. Furthermore, a driving report card makes parents aware of the teen’s day-to-day driving habits.
The CTS Luxury isn’t a plain-looking trim. Its exterior styling is enhanced by LED headlamps with vertical LED running lights. A set of 18-inch Bright Silver wheels and dual exhaust outlets also come standard. Heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals strengthen the car’s safety profile. Cadillac offers the Luxury trim in seven color options, including Radiant Red Tintcoat and Wave Metallic.
A tempting Sun & Sound package is on the CT4 Luxury’s list of options. Its premium Bose audio system features 14 performance-optimized speakers and surround-sound technology. A sunroof and navigation are also part of the deal. Drivers who want to enhance the car’s stance can opt for larger 19-inch alloy wheels. They can choose between a black and a polished finish.
The nicer Premium Luxury trim’s starting MSRP is nearly $5,000 higher. Nonetheless, it does give buyers access to some exclusive features.
Cadillac equips the Premium Luxury trim with the same standard powertrain. However, a larger turbo four-cylinder engine is optional. It presses 310 horsepower, thus promoting brisker acceleration. Along with the stronger 2.7-liter engine comes a 10-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive remains a standalone option.
As to be expected, fuel economy takes a slight nosedive with the more potent powertrain. According to the federal government, drivers can anticipate getting around 21 mpg in urban areas and 31 mpg on the highway. The good news is that opting for all-wheel drive doesn’t result in diminished fuel efficiency.
Larger 18-inch alloy wheels give the Premium Luxury trim just a bit more flair. The biggest upgrades are found on the inside. Passengers are welcomed to leather seating surfaces. Additional adjustments are added to the front seats. Ambient interior lighting and memory settings for the driver’s seat further separate this trim.
The CT4 Premium Luxury also adds some safety enhancements. Adaptive cruise control enables drivers to relax more by automatically adjusting speed when necessary. Front and rear parking sensors help prevent parking-lot blunders. Auto-dimming mirrors and rain-detecting automatic wipers are also found on the Premium Luxury trim.
A big option for the CT4 Premium Luxury is Cadillac’s Super Cruise advanced driving aid. It allows motorists to enjoy a hands-free drive. The system actively steers and brakes the sedan on stretches of highway.
For drivers seeking a cooler look, Cadillac offers a flashy Exterior Accent Package. Aside from outfitting the car with a sporty set of 19-inch polished alloy wheels, it also adds a rear spoiler.
Drivers who wish to experience the comfort of heated and ventilated front seats should check off the optional Climate Package. A heated steering wheel is included as well.
Compare the CT4 Premium Luxury vs Sport Trim Level. What is the difference?
Despite its name, the Sport trim does not pack any extra performance. It comes equipped with the range’s base powertrain. Cadillac does not offer this trim with a more powerful engine upgrade. However, buyers can boost stopping power with an optional set of front Brembo brakes. These heavy-duty brakes tack on extra $1,000.
Racier exterior and interior treatments do make the CT4 Sport look more like a serious performance car. Dark exterior details and an eye-catching set of 18-inch Pearl Nickel alloy wheels help the car to stand out. On the rear, a trunk-mounted spoiler and transparent tail lamps with gray tint further bolster the car’s stylish appearance.
To give the cockpit a sportier character, Cadillac adds a thick-rim steering wheel with magnesium shift paddles and alloy pedals. The Sport trim also receives upgraded 18-way front seats with four-way power lumbar.
Many of the Premium Luxury trim’s same options are offered on the Sport trim. However, a Technology Package is available for the CT4 Sport. It replaces the car’s conventional gauge cluster with a 12.3-inch digital display. Meanwhile, a cabin air ionizer helps remove dust and germs. A head-up display is included as well.
Compare the CT4 Sport vs CT4-V. What is the difference?
The racier CT4-V has a bit more sizzle under the hood. It comes standard with Cadillac’s previously optional 2.7-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine. However, this engine is specially tuned to crank out 325 horsepower. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the additional 15 horsepower. Launch control technology helps ensure the strongest possible acceleration off the line.
Enhanced handling capabilities make the CT4-V more satisfying to drive on twisty roads. A performance suspension with Magnetic Ride Control technology comes standard. Cadillac’s performance traction management system aids stability around corners. Other upgrades include standard Brembo brakes and a limited-slip differential.
There are some unique exterior treatments that help distinguish the CT4-V. In contrast to the Sport trim, it features a performance exhaust with quad exhaust outlets. LED front cornering lamps and low-profile performance tires also set apart this more fun-to-drive trim.
During aggressive driving, this trim’s front performance seats hug passengers tightly. A standard Bose premium audio system adds to the CT4-V’s appeal.
Compare the CT4 CT4-V vs CT4-V Blackwing Trim. What is the difference?
Atop the performance ladder sits the especially powerful CT4-V Blackwing. It comes equipped with a twin-turbo V6 engine, which unleashed a monstrous 472 horsepower. In contrast to the other trim levels, the CT4-V Blackwing receives a six-speed manual gearbox as standard equipment. However, buyers can still opt for a 10-speed automatic transmission.
To no surprise, the CT4-V Blackwing has a lower estimated fuel economy rating. Drivers can plan on getting around 13 mpg in town and 21 mpg on the open road. Remember, the CT4-V Blackwing only comes with a rear-wheel-drive setup. This could be a concern for folks who need a sports sedan that can tackle snowy road conditions.
To help make the CT4-V Blackwing a competitive performer on the track, Cadillac equips it with a high-performance suspension and high-performance Brembo brakes all around. An electronic limited-slip rear differential also aids the car’s precise driving dynamics.
Exclusive Dark Android wheels with even more aggressive performance tires and gray brake calipers differentiate regular CT4-V trim from the Blackwing version. A carbon-fiber appearance package is optional.
On the inside, there are heated front sport seats and a heated steering wheel. A digital gauge cluster, navigation, and a high-performance AKG sound system are also standard items.
Final Thoughts
The entry-level CT4 Luxury is an ideal pick for daily commuting. Its standard 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine will keep most motorists happy. Standard equipment includes a smartphone-friendly infotainment system, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Few trims in the class offer more value for the money. Cadillac's optional all-wheel-drive system is a must for motorists who often travel on snowy streets.
Upon moving up to the CT4 Premium Luxury, buyers gain access to a stronger turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Leather upholstery and intelligent cruise control are added to the car’s list of standard equipment. There are some nice options available, including Cadillac’s world-class Super Cruise system and heated/ventilated front seats.
While the Sport trim does add some racy exterior and interior details, it’s not monumentally better than the Premium Luxury trim. Remember, this sharp-looking trim does not offer a more powerful engine.
Drivers seeking a more serious performance sedan should strongly consider the CT4-V. Although the range-topping CTV-4 Blackwing competes against the segment’s best options, it does demand an estimated $60,500. Nonetheless, the CT4-V Blackwing is still more affordable than its European rivals. All of the top luxury features also come standard on the CT4-V Blackwing.
