Facelifted 2019 Cadillac CT6 Gets New V-Sport With 550hp Twin-Turbo V8

Cadillac has revealed the new 2019 CT6 V-Sport, the first hot version of the range-topping sedan and the company’s first model to feature their all-new twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8.

The new range-topper is also our first look at the facelifted CT6 range, which now adopts the latest version of Cadillac’s design language, as feature on the Escala concept.

Under the bonnet lies Cadillac’s all-new twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8 that produces an estimated 550hp and 627lb-ft (850Nm) of peak torque. Cadillac says that the engine is a clean-sheet design that introduces unique elements, offering a balance between performance and efficiency, along with compact packaging.

The new powerplant adopts a “hot-V” configuration, meaning that the turbochargers are mounted between the heads, eliminating turbo lag and helping into reducing the packaging.

The new 4.2-liter V8 sends its power to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac says that they have revised the torque split of the all-wheel drive system. The chassis also features a mechanical limited-slip rear differential and a V-Sport specific suspension with modified Magnetic Ride Control dampers.

The brake system is from Brembo and was developed specifically for the 2019 CT6 V-Sport, measuring 19 inches in diameter and featuring four-piston calipers.

“The CT6 V-Sport was developed for driving enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds: a high-performance sports sedan and a luxury car with all the comforts and technology that come with it,” said Lyndon Lie, CT6 chief engineer.

“With its lightweight architecture, an all-new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 coupled with the tightened suspension and revised AWD torque split, we’ve enhanced the CT6 to be well-balanced and capable of all conditions.”

As for the rest of the facelifted lineup, the update brings a range of new technologies to the big Cadillac. A new infotainment system with a 10-inch 1080p display promises a smartphone-like experience, faster responses and improved voice recognition. The system will be able to update over-the-air and comes with an available 4G LTE connection.

A wide range of driver assistance systems is also present and includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking, and Safety Alert Seat. Non V-Sport models will also get Cadillac’s much advertised semi-autonomous Super Cruise system.

Cadillac hasn’t released the full details of the 2019 CT6 V-Sport yet, including the performance figures. The new hot Caddy will probably share all of its secrets at the NY Auto Show next week.