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August 13, 2021
Better value for money than its German rivals – Test drive of the Cadillac CT5 | Cadillac
Cadillac CT5 | Cadillac CT5
Better value for money than its German rivals – Test drive of the Cadillac CT5
The "CT5," a mid-size sedan, was world-premiered at the 2019 New York Auto Show as the successor to the Cadillac CTS and introduced to Japan in January 2021. It was a model that left an impression with its fun-to-drive ride, comparable to German rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series.
Text by OGAWA Fumio | Photographs by KAWANO Atsuki
Dynamic Style and Sporty Driving Sensation
Sportiness is a key element in today's cars, as evidenced by the popularity of SUVs (Sport Utility Vehicles). Sedans, too, are trending towards coupe-like styling. The "Cadillac CT5," a four-door sedan launched in Japan in January 2021, offers more than just dynamic styling; its sporty driving feel is also a major characteristic.
Car enthusiasts might find themselves wanting to drive a sedan right now, with so many compelling models available. In fact, this is a great year for sedans. The CT5 is no exception. Regardless of one's preconceptions about Cadillac or American cars, this model possesses driving dynamics that directly challenge German and Japanese rivals, making it a car one can easily grow to love.
It's said that sedan popularity is waning in Japan, with many people gravitating towards SUVs. However, sedans offer unique charms that are hard to find elsewhere. One is their practicality, stemming from their lower overall height. Another is comfort, including ride quality. Furthermore, styling can actually express sportiness more effectively than in SUVs.
The Cadillac CT5 exceeds expectations in almost every regard. It inherits the comfort and excellent packaging of the premium sedan "CT6," introduced in 2016, while enhancing the fun-to-drive aspect even further. This heightened driving enjoyment is its significant appeal.
The CT5 Platinum driven here features a 1997cc 4-cylinder turbo engine housed within its 4925mm long body. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission, a classic mechanical layout for a car.
Cadillac has a long tradition of building rear-wheel-drive sedans. In recent years, models like the "CTS" series (2003-present) and "ATS" (2012-present) have offered driving performance comparable to German cars. Currently, the CT6 and the gasoline-powered CT5 represent Cadillac's sedan lineup in Japan.