Cadillac begins a new chapter in its high-performance legacy with the introduction of the brand’s first-ever twin-turbo V8 engine. It is the centrepiece of the new CT6 V-Sport, an engaging sports sedan infused with the DNA of Cadillac’s world-renowned motorsports program.
Developed as a small-displacement V8 in the classic vein and offering exceptional power density of 131hp per litre, this new Cadillac-exclusive 4.2L Twin Turbo V8 elevates the CT6’s performance to a new plateau and offers drivers an unparalleled experience behind the wheel.
The GM-estimated output of the new V8 is 550 horsepower and 850Nm of torque. An optional 500hp version will also be available.
The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V8 is a clean-sheet design that also introduces unique design elements developed to balance performance and efficiency with compact, mass-efficient packaging.
At the center of the new powerplant is a “hot V” configuration that transposes the conventional layout of the cylinder heads’ intake and exhaust systems to mount the turbochargers at the top of the engine — in the valley between the heads — to virtually eliminate turbo lag and reduce the engine’s overall packaging size.
In a conventional turbocharged engine, the cylinder heads receive the pressurised air charge through ports at the top of the engine and the exhaust exits through ports on the lower outside of the heads into manifolds connected to the turbochargers.
With Cadillac’s innovative “hot V” design, the intake-charged air enters through the lower outside of the heads and exits through the top inside — where the turbochargers are integrated with the exhaust manifolds — for quick spool-up that translates into more immediate power delivery. The design also allows closer mounting of the catalytic converters, for efficient packaging.
The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V8 is matched with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Its wide, 7.39 overall gear ratio spread enhances off-the-line performance and contributes to reduced engine speed on the highway, which enhances refinement and efficiency. Smaller steps between the gears also help the engine maintain the optimal speed for maximum power at almost all vehicle speeds.
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