The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Returns to VIR with Something to Prove
Car and Driver
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is back at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) with a renewed mission to claim the title of the fastest gas-powered four-door sedan on the track. Last year, the luxury sedan came just 0.2 seconds short of dethroning the Porsche Panamera Turbo S, and General Motors’ engineering team has made significant improvements to give it another shot. With enhanced Performance Traction Management (PTM) algorithms and a refined electronically controlled limited-slip differential, the CT5-V Blackwing aims to optimize power delivery and traction for better lap times. Despite facing challenges with reduced grip in critical corners like Turn 1, where it lost 0.3 seconds compared to last year, the car found gains elsewhere, particularly in the Climbing Esses and South Bend sections of the track.
The CT5-V Blackwing’s performance package includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, which provide exceptional grip for its 668 horsepower and 4143-pound weight. The PTM system was designed to maximize traction, allowing the car to exit Turn 1 at a higher speed despite lower lateral grip. However, mid-lap, the rear-end grip began to degrade, causing the system to limit
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Originally published on Car and Driver on 2/24/2026