Hardcore versions of Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V confirmed with Blackwing name, manual transmission

Cadillac on Tuesday announced that its most hardcore models in the future will carry the “Blackwing” designation.

The designation will be used by models in Cadillac’s V performance sub-brand and will initially appear on uprated, track-tuned versions of the CT4-V and CT5-V due later this year. Prototypes for both the CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing have already been spotted.

The CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing will be the true replacements for the ATS-V and CTS-V, which Cadillac has been hinting at ever since it unveiled the somewhat tame CT4-V and CT5-V last May. And both of the fire-breathing sport sedans are confirmed to be coming with available manual transmissions. A 10-speed automatic is expected to be offered for buyers who don’t #GiveAShift.

The Blackwing name first appeared on the Cadillac-exclusive 4.2-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 that at present has only featured in the now-discontinued CT6. The engine isn’t expected to feature in the hardcore CT4-V and CT5-V, though.

Instead, the CT4-V Blackwing is expected to pack a new turbocharged V-6 while the CT5-V Blackwing is expected to come with the familiar LT4 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 that was fitted to the old CTS-V, where it delivered 640 horsepower.

The cars are also expected to come with General Motors’ Global B electrical architecture which supports over-the-air updates and high-performance computer processing but could be a headache for the aftermarket scene.

The only extra info Cadillac is willing to provide right now is that both Blackwing models will feature track-tuned chassis benefiting from new vehicle control technologies. Cadillac also said testing of prototypes at Virginia International Raceway has shown the cars delivering faster lap times than the ATS-V and CTS-V.

Stay tuned.