2019 Cadillac CT6

Pros: Lightweight structure helps provide an agile driving character; excellent rear-seat space; surprisingly robust performance and refinement from base turbocharged 4-cylinder engine; pricing undercuts most class competitors

Cons: Trunk is small for the class and oddly shaped; ride is a bit less serene than in rival premium large sedans; interior materials are slightly less posh than some class competitors; available sunroof intrudes on headroom

CG Says: The 2019 Cadillac CT6 line gains a new high-performance model. The V-Sport is powered by a new 550-horsepower twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8 and has GM’s Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension with specific tuning. All CT6s have revised front and rear styling and the latest generation of the Cadillac User Experience infotainment control system. The base turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine has been replaced by an all new turbo 2.0-liter four. Horsepower drops from 265 to 237, although peak torque is reached at lower speed, so performance should be similar. CT6’s 8-speed automatic transmission is replaced by a new 10-speed automatic and the CT6 PLUG-IN hybrid model has been dropped. Cadillac’s flagship sedan competes with traditional class stalwarts such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Jaguar XJ, and Lexus LS–but its competitive prices also make it a compelling alternative to premium midsize players such as the Audi A6 and BMW 5-Series. The CT6 is lighter than other large luxury cars thanks to a lightweight, aluminum-intensive structure. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 237 hp. The step-up 3.6-liter V6 develops 335 hp. The twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 has 404 hp. All engines have cylinder deactivation for improved fuel economy. The four-cylinder is rear-drive only, while all others have standard all-wheel drive. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The CT6’s chassis and suspension are tuned for engaging handling, so its ride is a bit less cushy than some competitors. GM’s Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension and Active Rear Steer are offered in an Active Chassis Package (which is standard on the Platinum and V-Sport models). Safety and technology options include Pedestrian Collision Mitigation, Enhanced Night Vision, and surround-view cameras. Last year CT6 introduced Super Cruise; a hands-free, semi-autonomous driving aid that can control the car while traveling on freeways. Another unique feature is a rearview mirror that displays a camera image with a wider field of vision than a conventional mirror. As befits a flagship sedan, the rear-seat passengers can be pampered with heated/cooled/massaging reclining seats, quadzone climate controls, and dual-screen entertainment system. The CT6 isn’t quite as regal as the traditional German large luxury cars, but it also is significantly cheaper than those competitors. The CT6 offers premium large-car interior room and available amenities at prices that are in line with most premium midsize competitors. That, along with its engaging driving personality and long list of available luxury features, make the CT6 well worth checking out.