The new Cadillac CT5 enters the arena of the compact premium sedans armed with a footprint that’s similar to that of the bigger segment but with a price tag closer to those of smaller rivals.
You might ask why does the CT5 isn’t considered a mid-size sedan then, but Cadillac itself describes it as a “compact premium sedan” that goes against models like the BMW 3 Series, the Audi A4 and the Mercedes C-Class.
Customers can get a CT5 either with rear- or all-wheel drive, while engine options include a base turbocharged 237 HP 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with either 335 or 355 HP, the latter in the currently range-topping CT5-V.
Related: 2020 Cadillac CT5 Costs Nearly $10,000 Less Than The CTS
KBB tested the new CT5 with the base engine, saying that performance is strong enough but the feel and sound of the four-pot isn’t one of their favorite things about the new Cadillac. Handling is also described as predictable, while the ride quality is good.
The new CT5 offers a balanced package down the road, as it’s not too floaty or overly sporty, at least in the tested Luxury trim, hitting a middle ground that should please a large portion of its customer base.
And while the interior materials are of good quality, it seems that the Germans still have the edge on this particular field. Rear passengers will sit comfortably, provided they are not too tall, while the 10-inch infotainment system offers an easy-to-operate layout and comes with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
In the end, the new Cadillac CT5 is far from being a bad choice in the compact premium sedan segment, as it offers a lower price tag from some of its main rivals, but at the same time it fails to stand out among its rivals.