2029 Cadillac CT5 Preview.

Cadillac is working on a 2nd-generation CT5 sedan. The new model will start production in 2028, as a 2029 model. While the design is expected to be new, the car will be based on an updated version of the current platform. So, no matter what, it won’t be “all-new”…

The current Cadillac CT5 came out in late 2019. Or about 7 years ago, and a new one is still about a year and a half from production. Sales of the curent model are still suprisingly OK, with over 16,500 of them sold last year alone. And still over 40,000 in China.

I know many are eagerly awaiting the new Cadillac sedan, which is a rare event. But I am afraid GM might “go cheap” again. They might even pull a “Chevy Bolt” on us. Where the car might not even be a totally new design, but looking like a mid-cycle refresh with an almost new interior. Which would be really sad, after all these years.

GM has already mentioned that gas powertrains will be offered. And that, of course, means a V8. Which very few humans will actually buy. The current model still offers a turbo V6 on top of the standard 2.0 Liter engine. I drove both, and the 2.0 Liter is OK in a cheaper car, but it doesn’t really meet what’s expected of a Cadillac. While the V6 offers more than enough power, it’s a bit noisy and just too sporty for what I think a Cadillac should be. And again, the V8 has limited appeal.

Competition for the CT5 is getting sparse. I guess the Genesis G80 sedan will still be there in a couple of years. However, it is expected to get a new Hybrid powertrain very soon. Which will probably make it more popular than the CT5.

Otherwise, the usual suspects will still be there: the Mercedes E-Class and BMW 5 Series. Both offering EV options as well. A gas-only CT5 might feel quite old-fashioned in a couple of years.

I am really looking forward to a brand-new Cadillac sedan. But I am afraid what we will get might just look and feel like a refresh. Using the same platform will not fix the small cabin. The images above show what an all-new design could look like. If GM decides to spend serious money on the project.