2021 Cadillac CT5: Engines, Trims, MPG & Key Features
Automotive Research, ASE Master Technicians & Fact-Checking
The 2021 Cadillac CT5 was a rear-wheel-drive luxury sport sedan with available all-wheel drive, a standard 237-hp 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbo four-cylinder and an available 335-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. Both standard-CT5 engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Cadillac treated CT5-V as a separate V-Series model, so its higher-output powertrain should not be mixed into regular CT5 trim specifications.
2021 Cadillac CT5 key specifications
| Specification | 2021 CT5 |
|---|---|
| Standard engine | 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbo I4 — 237 hp, 258 lb-ft |
| Available engine | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 — 335 hp, 405 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drive layout | RWD; AWD available |
| Standard CT5 trims in Cadillac brochure | Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport |
| Infotainment | 10-inch diagonal touchscreen with rotary controller on Luxury |
2021 CT5 engine choices
Cadillac's 2021 brochure lists two engines for the standard CT5. The 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbo four-cylinder makes 237 hp and 258 lb-ft. The optional 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 makes 335 hp and 405 lb-ft.
The previous AutoZonic article incorrectly described a 2.7-liter V6 and also treated CT5-V output as if it were a normal CT5 trim. For used-car research, confirm the VIN/build sheet and do not infer the engine from exterior styling alone.
Transmission and drivetrain
Cadillac documents a 10-speed automatic for the 2021 CT5. Rear-wheel drive is the base architecture and all-wheel drive was available. The old claims of a 9-speed automatic, 8-speed automatic and front-wheel drive have been removed.
2021 CT5 fuel economy
| Engine / drive | City | Highway |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0T RWD | 23 mpg | 32 mpg |
| 2.0T AWD | 21 mpg | 31 mpg |
| 3.0TT RWD | 19 mpg | 28 mpg |
| 3.0TT AWD | 18 mpg | 26 mpg |
These are Cadillac's archived EPA estimates for the 2021 model year. Real-world fuel economy varies with configuration, tires, temperature and driving style.
Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport
Cadillac's standard CT5 brochure separates Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport from the V-Series. Luxury centers on the 2.0T powertrain and core safety/infotainment equipment. Premium Luxury and Sport add different combinations of appearance, comfort, technology and performance options.
The Sport trim could be equipped with a V Performance Package that included a mechanical limited-slip differential and Magnetic Ride Control, with Brembo V Performance front brakes required. That does not turn the car into a CT5-V or CT5-V Blackwing.
2021 CT5-V is a different specification
Cadillac published a separate V-Series brochure for CT5-V. AutoZonic now keeps that distinction explicit. If a used listing says CT5-V, use V-Series specifications rather than standard CT5 engine/trim tables.
Used 2021 CT5 checklist
- Verify 2.0T versus 3.0TT by VIN/build sheet.
- Confirm RWD or AWD.
- Check whether performance, driver-assistance and comfort packages were actually installed.
- Test the 10-inch infotainment system, cameras and driver-assistance features.
- Review service history and open recalls by VIN.
- Inspect tires, brakes and suspension, especially on Sport/V Performance Package cars.
Related Cadillac CT5 guides
References
Researching this vehicle or comparing used inventory?
Always cross-reference factory service bulletins, verify warranty coverage, and compare dealer financing rates or insurance quotes before purchasing.
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