Sorry, Corvette.
Cadillac might be uncertain about the future its CT6 flagship sedan, but it knows exactly what it will do with the engine that powers the series’ top-of-the-line model. The CT6_V has a 4.2-liter twin turbo V8 engine that is shared with the CT6 Platinum, but will remain exclusive to Cadillac.
Cadillac President Steve Carlisle was direct when asked if the marque would be open to sharing the so called Blackwing engine with other carmakers that fall under General Motors. In a recent interview, he said that he was “over my dead body”. This is what we call a strong statement.
We learned last week that Caddy plans to construct more CT6-Vs. However, it is not known how many examples will actually be produced at this time. The manufacturer will sell the new batch of luxury performance sedans at a much higher price than the original batch of 275 units. The price will go up from $88,790 and $92,790.
Cadillac will likely use the Blackwing engine under the hood for its next generation Escalade, due next year. It is expected to be available as a 2021 model. Although rumors suggested that the 550-horsepower (410 kilowatts) V8 would be used in the new Chevrolet Corvette, it’s unlikely.
Recent reports have indicated that Cadillac will introduce the Blackwing to the CT6 Platinum. This is the CTS’ most expensive non-V model. According to reports, the sedan will use a modified version of the engine that produces 500 horsepower (373 kW) or 553 pound-feet (753 Newton-meters). The engine will come standard with an automatic 10-speed gearbox and all-wheel drive.
Cadillac’s move to bring its flagship twin-turbo diesel engine to the Platinum trim is a good one. However, we feel that there is something amiss with Cadillac’s brand strategy. According to the latest reports, the CT6 Platinum with V8 will retail for $96,790. That’s $8,000 more than the CT6V and $9,000 less than the CT6 with its 3.0-liter twin-turbo motor.
Cadillac’s official website still lists the CT6 Platinum with a V6 engine, but also states that the CT6-V will return to the market in mid-2019.