The 2021 Cadillac CT5 is a compact luxury sedan, part of the first CT5 generation that debuted in 2020. Key trims include Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, and the high-performance V-Series. Known for its stylish design and comfortable ride, the CT5 offers a blend of luxury and performance at a competitive price. The 2021 models typically range from $38,000 to $50,000 depending on the trim and options, making it an attractive option in the luxury sedan market.
The Good
The 2021 Cadillac CT5 offers a compelling blend of advantages. For the practical buyer, it presents a good value proposition, decent fuel efficiency (depending on the engine), and comfortable interior. Emotionally, the CT5 boasts a stylish design, available powerful engines (especially in the V-Series), and a luxurious driving experience. While reliability can vary, it's generally considered a solid choice within its class.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2021 Cadillac CT5 include a smaller rear seat compared to some rivals, and the base engine can feel underpowered for some drivers. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system. The interior materials, while generally good, may not feel as premium as some European competitors. Watch out for potential electronic glitches reported by some owners.
2021 Cadillac CT5: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Turbocharged I4: Available on Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6: Available on Premium Luxury and standard on V-Series.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L Turbo: 235 hp
- 3.0L Twin-Turbo: 335 hp (V-Series: 360 hp)
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.0L Turbo (RWD): 23 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 3.0L Twin-Turbo (RWD): 20 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.0L Turbo: Around 6.6 seconds
- 3.0L Twin-Turbo: Around 4.9 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Luxury: Standard features include a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, leatherette upholstery, and a suite of driver-assistance features like forward collision alert and automatic emergency braking.
- Premium Luxury: Adds leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and available features like Super Cruise driver-assistance technology.
- Sport: Features a more aggressive exterior design, sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and unique interior trim.
- V-Series: High-performance model with a more powerful version of the 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6, Magnetic Ride Control, performance brakes, and unique styling cues.
2021 Cadillac CT5 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | Cadillac |
| Model | CT5 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | Minicompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | LANSING |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LSY |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 10-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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What Problems Does the 2021 Cadillac CT5 Have?
Some owners of the 2021 Cadillac CT5 have reported issues with the infotainment system, including freezing, lagging, and connectivity problems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There have also been reports of minor electrical glitches, such as issues with the climate control system or the power windows. Some consumers have reported transmission hesitation in lower gears. While not widespread, these issues are worth noting.
As for recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any active recalls related to the 2021 CT5. Recalls can address safety-related defects that need to be fixed by the manufacturer free of charge.
Long-term reliability is still being assessed, but early indications suggest that the CT5 is reasonably reliable. However, like many modern vehicles with complex electronics, there is a potential for electronic components to fail over time. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Specific issues with the 2020 model year (the CT5's first year) may have been addressed in the 2021 model, but it's still advisable to research any potential recurring problems.
As for recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any active recalls related to the 2021 CT5. Recalls can address safety-related defects that need to be fixed by the manufacturer free of charge.
Long-term reliability is still being assessed, but early indications suggest that the CT5 is reasonably reliable. However, like many modern vehicles with complex electronics, there is a potential for electronic components to fail over time. Proper maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Specific issues with the 2020 model year (the CT5's first year) may have been addressed in the 2021 model, but it's still advisable to research any potential recurring problems.
How long will the 2021 Cadillac CT5 last?
With proper maintenance, the 2021 Cadillac CT5 can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-15 years of service. Regular oil changes, timely fluid replacements (transmission, coolant, brake fluid), and addressing any mechanical issues promptly are key to maximizing longevity. Long-term durability might be affected by the complexity of the electronic systems; failures in these areas could be more costly to repair than traditional mechanical components. The longevity of the turbochargers (if equipped) will depend on driving habits and maintenance.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2021 Cadillac CT5 comes with a comprehensive suite of tech features. Standard is a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot and OnStar services.
Entertainment: The infotainment system is user-friendly, and higher trims offer premium Bose audio systems.
Driver-Assistance: Standard safety features include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
Optional Features: Optional driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Cadillac's Super Cruise hands-free driving system (available on Premium Luxury trim).
Safety Features: Available features extend to enhanced automatic emergency braking, reverse automatic braking and HD Surround Vision.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2021 Cadillac CT5 received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It's important to check the specific ratings for the 2021 model year on their respective websites, as ratings can change from year to year. The IIHS often awards Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ designations to vehicles with excellent safety performance.
Entertainment: The infotainment system is user-friendly, and higher trims offer premium Bose audio systems.
Driver-Assistance: Standard safety features include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
Optional Features: Optional driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Cadillac's Super Cruise hands-free driving system (available on Premium Luxury trim).
Safety Features: Available features extend to enhanced automatic emergency braking, reverse automatic braking and HD Surround Vision.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2021 Cadillac CT5 received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). It's important to check the specific ratings for the 2021 model year on their respective websites, as ratings can change from year to year. The IIHS often awards Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ designations to vehicles with excellent safety performance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Summit White
Black Raven
Shadow Metallic
Wave Metallic
Infrared Tintcoat
Dark Moon Blue Metallic
Rattlesnake Metallic
Wildfire Red Tintcoat
Interior Colors
Jet Black
Jet Black with Jet Black Accents
Sangria with Jet Black Accents
Cinnamon with Jet Black Accents
Whisper Beige with Jet Black Accents
Maple Sugar with Jet Black Accents
Sky Cool Gray with Jet Black Accents
2021 Cadillac CT5 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2021 Cadillac CT5 ranged from around $38,000 for the base Luxury trim to over $50,000 for a fully equipped V-Series. Current used market prices typically range from the low $20,000s to the high $30,000s, depending on the trim, mileage, and condition. Depreciation is generally moderate for luxury sedans, with the CT5 losing value at a rate comparable to its competitors. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, service history, and whether the vehicle has any desirable options like Super Cruise.
2021 Cadillac CT5 Cost of Ownership
The 2021 Cadillac CT5's ownership costs are generally moderate for a luxury sedan. Insurance rates are comparable to its rivals. Fuel costs depend on the engine choice, with the 2.0L turbo offering better economy than the 3.0L V6. Maintenance costs are typical for a luxury vehicle, but regular servicing is crucial. Repairs can be more expensive than for non-luxury brands. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own, but it's also not excessively costly compared to other luxury sedans.
2021 Cadillac CT5 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2021 Cadillac CT5 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Cadillac CT5 Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags
Recall date
2021-08-05
Recall no.
21v611000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, Llc. (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 Vehicles. THE Roof Rail Side-Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT Have Been Installed Correctly, Which Could Result IN AN Improper AIR BAG Deployment During A Crash.
Consequence
AIR Bags That DO NOT Deploy Properly CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect Both Left and Right-Side Roof Rail AIR Bags and Reinstall THE AIR Bags, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON August 30, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212342780.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window:curtain
Recall date
2021-08-05
Recall no.
21v611000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, Llc. (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2022 Cadillac CT4 and CT5 Vehicles. THE Roof Rail Side-Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT Have Been Installed Correctly, Which Could Result IN AN Improper AIR BAG Deployment During A Crash.
Consequence
AIR Bags That DO NOT Deploy Properly CAN Increase THE Risk OF Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect Both Left and Right-Side Roof Rail AIR Bags and Reinstall THE AIR Bags, AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON August 30, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212342780.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Electrical System:software
Recall date
2021-06-03
Recall no.
21v421000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac Ct4, Ct5, Escalade, Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL Vehicles. THE Communications Gateway Module Incorrectly Processes A Loss OF Communication With THE Sensing Diagnostic Module (Sdm), Causing THE AIR BAG Malfunction Indicator Light TO Inconsistently Illuminate.
Consequence
THE AIR BAG Malfunction Indicator Light MAY Fail TO Warn THE Driver OF A Problem With THE AIR Bag, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
THE Communications Gateway Module Software Will BE Updated BY A Dealer, or Through AN Over-The-Air (Ota) Update, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON July 1, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212338110.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:srs Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light
Recall date
2021-06-03
Recall no.
21v421000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac Ct4, Ct5, Escalade, Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL Vehicles. THE Communications Gateway Module Incorrectly Processes A Loss OF Communication With THE Sensing Diagnostic Module (Sdm), Causing THE AIR BAG Malfunction Indicator Light TO Inconsistently Illuminate.
Consequence
THE AIR BAG Malfunction Indicator Light MAY Fail TO Warn THE Driver OF A Problem With THE AIR Bag, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
THE Communications Gateway Module Software Will BE Updated BY A Dealer, or Through AN Over-The-Air (Ota) Update, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON July 1, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, or GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N212338110.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Exterior Lighting:lighting Control Module:software
Recall date
2022-12-08
Recall no.
22v903000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors, LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and Ct5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade Esv, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL Vehicles. THE Daytime Running Lights (Drls) MAY NOT Deactivate When THE Headlights ARE ON. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Drls That DO NOT Deactivate AS Intended MAY Result IN A Glare, Reducing Visibility, and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
THE Body Control Module Software Will BE Updated BY A Dealer, or Through AN Over-The-Air (Ota) Update, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed January 23, 2023. Owners MAY Contact GMC Customer Service AT 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-458-8006. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N222386380. This Recall Expands Previous Recall Number 22v-827.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
2025-03-06
Recall no.
25v148000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain 2019-2020 Cadillac Ct6, 2020-2021 Ct4, Ct5, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Camaro Vehicles Equipped With A 10-speed Transmission. THE Transmission MAY Become Damaged Internally and Cause THE Wheels TO Lock-up.
Consequence
Wheel Lock-Up While Driving Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install Transmission Control Module Monitoring Software, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed April 7, 2025. Owners MAY Contact Cadillac Customer Service AT 1-800-333-4223 or Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N242480630.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 888-327-4236 (Tty 888-275-9171) or GO TO Nhtsa.gov.
2021 Cadillac CT5 Insurance
Insurance for a 2021 Cadillac CT5 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Passenger Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Cadillac CT5 Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
The 2021 Cadillac CT5 competes with luxury sedans like the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS. In terms of performance, the CT5 offers competitive engine options, especially the V-Series. Features-wise, it's well-equipped, but some rivals offer more advanced technology.
Reliability is generally good, but some competitors like Lexus have a better track record. Price-wise, the CT5 often undercuts its European rivals, offering good value for the money.
Compared to the BMW 3 Series, the CT5 might not be as sporty, but it offers a more comfortable ride. Against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the CT5 might lack some of the interior refinement. The Audi A4 offers similar technology, but the CT5 might have a more aggressive styling. The Lexus IS is known for its reliability, but the CT5 offers more powerful engine options.
Alternatives worth considering include the Genesis G70, which offers similar levels of luxury and performance at a competitive price. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Lexus IS is a good choice. If performance is the main concern, the BMW 3 Series or CT5 V-Series are worth considering. For value, the CT5 and Genesis G70 are strong contenders.
Reliability is generally good, but some competitors like Lexus have a better track record. Price-wise, the CT5 often undercuts its European rivals, offering good value for the money.
Compared to the BMW 3 Series, the CT5 might not be as sporty, but it offers a more comfortable ride. Against the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, the CT5 might lack some of the interior refinement. The Audi A4 offers similar technology, but the CT5 might have a more aggressive styling. The Lexus IS is known for its reliability, but the CT5 offers more powerful engine options.
Alternatives worth considering include the Genesis G70, which offers similar levels of luxury and performance at a competitive price. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities. If reliability is paramount, the Lexus IS is a good choice. If performance is the main concern, the BMW 3 Series or CT5 V-Series are worth considering. For value, the CT5 and Genesis G70 are strong contenders.
Ranks #1377 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1377 | 2021 Cadillac CT5 | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Cadillac CT5 a Good Passenger Sedan?
The 2021 Cadillac CT5 is a solid choice for buyers seeking a stylish and comfortable luxury sedan with a good value proposition. It's ideal for those who appreciate American styling and a comfortable ride, and who don't necessarily need the absolute sportiest or most technologically advanced car in its class.
Whether it's worth buying depends on individual needs and preferences. A used 2021 CT5 can be a particularly good value. The Premium Luxury or Sport trims offer a good balance of features and performance. The V-Series is for those seeking a high-performance driving experience. Consider a pre-purchase inspection to check for any potential issues.
Whether it's worth buying depends on individual needs and preferences. A used 2021 CT5 can be a particularly good value. The Premium Luxury or Sport trims offer a good balance of features and performance. The V-Series is for those seeking a high-performance driving experience. Consider a pre-purchase inspection to check for any potential issues.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.