5 minute read

Chevrolet Impala

2021 CADILLAC CT5V - $36,895. - $49,695.

L

Advertisement

aunched recently in 2020, the 2021 Cadillac CT5-V sports sedan is unsurprisingly a carry-over from its 2020 model. Let alone some significant updates of some tech and gadgetry. Also noteworthy is the fact that a CT5-V Blackwing with a 650hp 6.2liter V8 is also coming soon in 2021. This could be the same V8 seen in the 2021 Escalade, but in a higher tune.

The CT5-V is the mid-tier model of the all-new CT5 family which recently replaced the earlier CTS. Sleek and edgy exteriors, potent engine options, spacious and modern interiors along with a light foot makes the CT5 a good package for the buck. The CT5-V though, adds some extra athleticism, power and aggression to this package with a powerful V6 and performance-tuned mechanics.

Apart from all the chiseling and fine-tuning with their recent launches, Cadillac also diversified its lineup similar to those of its arch rivals, Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The diversification is very evident in the positioning and powertrain options with the compact sports sedan. We are talking about the performance, everyday comfort and maneuverability.

Though it has evolved in terms of interior arrangement and quality but still feels lingering behind the best in the market. However, its tech and safety suite has taken a significant leap compared to its predecessor. It's not as furious as the 650 hp CT5-V Blackwing nor as humble as its base models. Talk about the sweet blend of a punchy V6 engine, compact proportions and enhanced handling over the CTS makes the CT5-V a very good package for the buck. At a starting MSRP of $47,795, the 2021 CT5-V stands pretty confident against the likes of BMW M340i, Audi S4 and Mercedes-AMG C 43 sedan.

the basic CT5 sedan gets a 2.0-liter turbo pot, the 2021 CT5-V is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the engine makes 360 hp and 405 lb-fts of torque. No dearth of power and the turbo V6 has plenty of grunt into it. Not something really exhilarating but the V6’s wide torque band along with a healthy mid-reserve does allow you to play with it.

At startups, you do get a slight hint of turbo lag, but once you are past 30-40 mph, the engine gets in its full glory. The 10-speed automatic though is not as refined as one in an Audi A5 and you will feel the gearbox a bit reluctant towards downshifts. However, for most of the time, the transmission remains compliant and smooth.

Though Cadillac claims that the new CT5 is more fun to drive than its predecessor, the basic CT5 doesn't feel as exciting as the CTS. However, the performance-tuned CT5-V stands out with its helpful character. First up under normal city conditions, the CT5-V rewards you with a comfortable and serene ride. The suspension is neither too firm nor too floaty and soaks up road undulations pretty well. Even the throttle response seems linear and smooth with no fuss or fumble.

However, switch track mode and things change pretty quickly. The suspension stiffens up and the throttle response gains an instant aggression. Though the ride in this extreme setting gets a bit rough, it's compensated by a lighter steering, better maneuverability and stronger composure. In track mode, the CT5-V feels more confident and playful around corners but doesn't provide the same confidence as an Alfa-Romeo Giulia.

2021 AUDI A7 - $70,245. - $81,245.

The 2021 Audi A7 blurs the line between sedan and hatchback with its sleek profile and refined nature. Its turbocharged V-6 powertrain and standard all-wheel drive has quick acceleration and four-season traction. The Audi has quiet cabin space that boasts cutting-edge technology and countless luxuries. While most of this content is found on the A6 sedan, the A7's fastback profile and extra cargo space make it both more visually distinct and more practical. Like the A6, the fastback A7 offers sophisticated road manners and is capable of delighting drivers when the road ahead starts to spiral.

The 2021 A7 is a hybrid model. The hybrid powertrain consists of a turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor that together combine for 362 horsepower. The A7 PHEV will be capable of electric-only motoring, but Audi hasn't yet released details on the car's range. Besides the new PHEV model, Audi has made the smallest of changes to the 2021 A7 lineup. 20-inch wheels with all-season tires are standard on the base model. The Convenience package adds a top-view camera system. The mid-level Premium Plus comes standard with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The top Prestige model gets a newly optional Sport package that includes 21-inch wheels on summer tires and the adaptive steel suspension.

The Plus comes standard with adaptive cruise control, Audi's virtual cockpit (a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster), headlights with snazzier Matrix-design accents and automatic high-beams, futuristic-looking taillight animations, a high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system, and lane-keeping assist. The Premium Plus has heated front seats, leather upholstery, a power-operated hatchback, and a panoramic sunroof.

The A7's standard powertrain is a turbocharged V-6 that makes 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. That power is delivered through a seven-speed automatic transmission. The A7's standard V-6 powertrain also uses a 48-volt hybrid-assist system that minimizes turbo lag and aids stop/start operation. Its all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in wet and dry conditions. Audi expertly blends luxury and agility on the A7. Its supple suspension was equally successful at limiting body motions and maximizing smoothness. The steering response was in line with adjustable heft available in different drive modes.

The EPA estimates the 2021 A7 with the six-cylinder engine will earn 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The plug-in-hybrid A7 has a combined rating of 29 mpg (5 mpg higher than the nonhybrid's combined estimate), and it has an electric-only range of 24 miles. The V-6-powered Audi we tested greatly exceeded its highway rating, earning an impressive 36 mpg on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. The CLS also returned 36 mpg on the highway.

The A7's interior is highlighted by attractive materials and sturdy switchgear. Every cabin has ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, leather seating surfaces, a panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, and more. The A7 provides a satisfying driving position that is complemented by excellent outward visibility. Rear-seat passengers receive climate controls, power points for charging devices, and heated seats are optional. The back seat accommodates two adults. Underneath the A7's power-operated liftback, we fit seven carry-on bags behind its split-folding rear seat. The car held 20 bags of luggage with the seats folded flat. A golf bag and stroller fit in the cargo area. The front door pockets are narrow, and the center console has a small bin.

This article is from: