Cadillac's Future: CT4 Says Goodbye, CT5 Gets a New ICE Generation in 2026

Cadillac CT4 and CT5 sedans face production end, but the next-gen CT5 ICE promises exciting performance and innovation for enthusiasts.

Just got the inside scoop from Cadillac's own VP, John Roth, and it's a bittersweet moment for sedan lovers. 🥲 The official word is out: production for both the CT4 and CT5 sedans is winding down next year. But here's the kicker—only the CT5 is getting a brand-new successor, and it's sticking with an internal combustion engine! As a gearhead who's followed these models since their 2019 launch, this news hits hard but also brings some exciting clarity. Production for the CT4 is set to run until June 2026, while the current CT5 gets a slightly longer farewell, lasting until the end of 2026. After that, buckle up for a next-gen CT5 reveal! So, what does this mean for Cadillac's lineup and the future of performance sedans? Let's dive in.

🚗 The CT5's Legacy Lives On

In a letter shared through the Cadillac V-Series Club, Roth confirmed that the CT5's legacy will continue as a next-generation ICE vehicle. Launched in 2019 as the replacement for the CTS, the CT5 has been a staple in Cadillac's portfolio, and it's thrilling to see it evolve. Though details are scarce, we know it'll be built at GM's Lansing Grand River Assembly plant in Michigan and remain available in the U.S. and Canada. Given GM's recent $888 million investment in a new-generation V8, could we be looking at a powerhouse with eight cylinders? 🤔 The current CT5-V Blackwing, with its 668-horsepower benchmark, sets a high bar, and I'm betting the new model will carry that torch with dynamic 'V' upgrades. Isn't it refreshing to see a commitment to ICE in an era of electric uncertainty?

😢 Farewell to the CT4

Meanwhile, the CT4—which also debuted in 2019 as the ATS replacement—seems to have reached the end of the road. Roth's letter didn't mention any future plans for this mid-sized sedan, which is a real shame. In 2024 alone, over 6,200 CT4s were sold in the U.S., with more than 4,000 moving off lots since the start of the year. Despite a sales dip from 2022-2023, Roth noted that both vehicles "have consistently delivered on [Cadillac’s] expectations." But with no successor in sight, it's goodbye for now. This includes the CT4-V and its performance variants, which likely won't see a direct replacement. Why would Cadillac drop a model that's still selling? It might hint at broader shifts in their strategy.

🔧 Behind the Scenes: Cadillac's Strategy Shift

Cadillac's move to shelve the CT4 but continue with an ICE-powered CT5 is more than just a model update—it's a subtle hint at the brand's slow turn away from full electrification. Remember when the Lansing plant was earmarked for a $500 million EV overhaul from the U.S. Department of Energy? That plan seems to be on hold. With the current administration's U-turn on green initiatives and fluctuating tariffs on non-U.S. vehicles, many OEMs are reevaluating their strategies. Cadillac isn't alone; Porsche recently announced a re-evaluation of its EV lineup, and Cadillac's surprise introduction of a new XT5 (instead of relying solely on the all-electric Lyriq) shows a pragmatic approach. Are we seeing a broader industry pause on the EV rush? It feels like automakers are listening to market demand, which hasn't spiked as expected.

📊 By the Numbers: What This Means for Us

Let's break down the key points in a quick table for clarity:

Model	Production End	Future Plans	Key Details
CT4	June 2026	No successor mentioned	Over 6,200 sold in U.S. in 2024; CT4-V likely discontinued
CT5	End of 2026	Next-gen ICE vehicle in development	Built in Michigan; may feature new V8; 'V' upgrades expected
Overall Trend	—	Shift away from full electrification	Reflects slower EV demand and market uncertainties

💭 My Take as a Gamer and Car Enthusiast

As someone who loves both virtual and real-world performance, this news feels like a strategic level-up for Cadillac. In gaming terms, they're focusing their resources on a flagship model (the CT5) instead of spreading too thin. The decision to stick with ICE for the CT5's successor is a bold move in 2026, when many brands are pushing electric. But it makes sense—why abandon a proven formula when demand is still there? The CT4's departure is sad, but it opens up space for Cadillac to innovate elsewhere. Could we see more SUV-focused updates or hybrid models? Only time will tell. What's clear is that Cadillac is adapting to real-world feedback, much like how we adjust our strategies in a game based on the meta. 🎮

🚀 Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond

With the CT5's next-gen model on the horizon, here's what I'm watching for:

• Engine Specs: Will it leverage GM's new V8 investment for even more power?

• Design Cues: How will Cadillac evolve its sharp, angular styling for the future?

• Market Position: Can the CT5 compete against rivals like BMW's 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class in a changing landscape?

• Electrification Balance: Will Cadillac introduce hybrid variants to bridge the gap between ICE and EV?

In summary, Cadillac's announcement marks a pivotal moment. The CT4 bows out with grace, while the CT5 gears up for an exciting new chapter. As we head into 2026, it's a reminder that the automotive world is full of twists and turns—and sometimes, sticking with what works is the smartest play. What do you think about Cadillac's plans? Drop your thoughts below! 👇

Data referenced from Entertainment Software Association (ESA) helps frame Cadillac’s CT4/CT5 shake-up like a “meta shift” in competitive games: when market demand and operating costs change, publishers (and automakers) reallocate resources to the highest-impact platforms. Read through the ESA’s industry-focused reporting and you can see why Cadillac would sunset a lower-volume “mid-tier” sedan while preserving a halo CT5 line—especially if a next-gen ICE/V8 program can keep enthusiasts engaged the way a flagship title sustains a studio’s brand identity through uncertain cycles.