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Cadillac CT4
Sedan · Gas · 7 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 17 luxury compact cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (304 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by trim level and owner expectations.
4 problems reported (2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Recurrent10-speed automatic transmission reliability
Reports of the transmission momentarily locking up, going into "reduced acceleration mode," and requiring valve body replacement. A recall was issued by GM for this issue.
- RecurrentInterior quality and space
Criticized as cheap, cramped, and using poor-quality materials; described as a "pile of crap" with thin floor mats and a small sunroof in one isolated but vehement report.
- IsolatedUnknown drivetrain/electrical fault
One report of repeated failures causing disabled acceleration, with fault codes cleared by the dealer but the root cause unresolved, leading to a potential vehicle repurchase.
+ 1 more issueShow fewer
- IsolatedPaint/Glass/Wheel susceptibility
Notes that the car is prone to windshield and wheel damage, advising specific insurance deductibles for glass and wheel/tire packages.
The version owners recommend
CT4-V Blackwing: This top performance variant is consistently highlighted as the definitive version, praised for its twin-turbocharged 3.6L V6 engine, exceptional chassis tuning, and the availability of a 6-speed manual transmission. It is described as a "weapon" and a "timeless design" that provides a world-class driving experience. The CT4-V (non-Blackwing) is also well-regarded as a potent daily driver, with the AWD version noted for providing faster 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) times (4.2-4.4 seconds) compared to the RWD version.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the M340i, M3), Audi S3/RS3, Mercedes-AMG C63 and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by trim level and owner expectations. The CT4-V and CT4-V Blackwing variants receive extremely high praise for their driving dynamics, with owners frequently describing them as among the best sports sedans available, lauding the chassis, steering feel, and manual transmission option (on Blackwing). These performance models are celebrated for offering a pure, engaging driving experience that rivals or exceeds German competitors. In contrast, feedback on non-V/Blackwing trims and general ownership is mixed to negative, with isolated but strong criticism citing a cheap, cramped interior with poor material quality, lack of refinement, and reliability concerns. The value proposition is considered strong for the performance variants, especially when compared to competitors, but weak for base models where the luxury experience is perceived as lacking.
Positioning vs competitors
The CT4-V and Blackwing are positioned as driver-focused alternatives to German sport sedans, frequently praised for superior steering feedback, suspension tuning, and a more engaging manual transmission compared to Audi RS3 and BMW M2/M3. They are seen as offering better driving dynamics but sometimes lagging in interior refinement and perceived brand prestige. The standard CT4 is positioned against entry-level luxury sedans but is often criticized for an interior that feels less premium than a Genesis G70 or Lexus IS. A recurring theme is that the performance Cadillacs provide a more raw and connected experience, while German competitors may offer more technology or a more polished cabin.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is highly recommended for the Blackwing for maximum engagement. All-wheel drive (AWD) is suggested for the CT4-V for improved traction and acceleration, especially in climates with inclement weather. A tire and wheel protection package is recommended due to reported susceptibility to damage. Premium fuel is advised. An extended warranty is strongly suggested for models equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission due to reliability concerns.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for driving enthusiasts seeking a engaging, rear-wheel-drive-based sports sedan, particularly the CT4-V Blackwing. Suitable for buyers who prioritize driving dynamics over ultimate interior luxury. NOT recommended for buyers seeking a spacious, softly-riding luxury cruiser or those with high expectations for cabin material quality in base trims. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical, with a specific focus on the automatic transmission's history and any recall work. For non-performance trims, cross-shop competitors like Genesis and Lexus closely to assess interior quality preferences.
Remarks
Owner experience is profoundly bifurcated between the high-performance V-Series/Blackwing models and the standard CT4. The praise for the driving experience of the performance models is among the most enthusiastic in the segment, often citing direct comparison wins against established German rivals. Criticism centers almost exclusively on interior execution and the reliability of the GM-sourced 10-speed automatic. The manual transmission in the Blackwing is noted as a major differentiator and is not associated with the automatic's reliability concerns. Data suggests the CT4 is at its best when configured as a driver's car, and its weaknesses are most apparent when evaluated as a traditional luxury sedan. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2022. Years to avoid: 2022Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Cadillac CT4 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2025 | 2 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 7 | 0 | power train |
| 2023 | 3 | 1 | steering |
| 2022 | 18 | 2 | steering |
| 2021 | 7 | 4 | engine |
| 2020 | 8 | 4 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices11 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2023 · exterior lighting:lighting control module:softwarecampaign 22V903000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2022 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 21V611000
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 vehicles. The roof rail side-curtain air bags may not have been installed correctly, which could result in an improper air bag deployment during a crash.
2022 · exterior lighting:lighting control module:softwarecampaign 22V903000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2021 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 21V611000
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 vehicles. The roof rail side-curtain air bags may not have been installed correctly, which could result in an improper air bag deployment during a crash.
2021 · air bags:srs malfunction warning lamp/lightcampaign 21V421000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.
2021 · exterior lighting:lighting control module:softwarecampaign 22V903000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2021 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 25V148000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 CT4, CT5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission. The transmission may become damaged internally and cause the wheels to lock-up.
2020 · air bags:side/window:curtaincampaign 21V611000
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 vehicles. The roof rail side-curtain air bags may not have been installed correctly, which could result in an improper air bag deployment during a crash.
2020 · service brakescampaign 20V588000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac CT4, CT5 and XT4, 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and 2020-2021 Buick Encore GX vehicles. Sensor connection contamination in the electronic brake boost system may cause an interruption of communication between the sensor and the brake boost system.
2020 · exterior lighting:lighting control module:softwarecampaign 22V903000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
2020 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 25V148000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Cadillac CT6, 2020-2021 CT4, CT5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro vehicles equipped with a 10-speed transmission. The transmission may become damaged internally and cause the wheels to lock-up.
Specifications
V Blackwing 3.6 V6
3.6L 6-cylinder · 472 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2021–2026