The Cadillac LT4 Blackwing is a 6,162 cc, V8 supercharged petrol engine produced from 2016 onwards. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32 — valve configuration, and General Motors' Active Fuel Management (AFM) system with continuously variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivers 477 kW (650 PS) at 6,400 rpm and 850 Nm of torque at 3,600–5,200 rpm, offering extreme performance and refinement for high — performance luxury applications.
Fitted to models i…
Production years 2016–present meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4014).
The Cadillac LT4 Blackwing is a 6,162 cc V8 supercharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance luxury applications (2016–present). It combines forced induction with cylinder deactivation to deliver responsive power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged | |
Bore × stroke | 103.3 mm × 92.0 mm | |
Power output | 477 kW (650 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
Torque | 850 Nm @ 3,600–5,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection with port assist (DPI+) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Supercharger | Twin-volute Eaton TVS R1740 (1.7L) with electric bypass valve | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (DOHC) | |
Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 218 kg |
The Cadillac LT4 Blackwing was used across Cadillac's CTS/CT5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received model-specific adaptations-increased cooling capacity in the CT5-V and revised intake manifolds in the CTS-V-and from 2018 the updated supercharger tensioner with improved heat resistance, creating strict interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The LT4 Blackwing's primary reliability risk is supercharger drive belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal GM quality reports from 2019 indicated a significant number of pre-2018 units required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show boost-related faults as a top cause of drivability complaints in Cadillac performance models. Extended service intervals and use of low-octane fuel increase thermal stress, making fuel quality and schedule adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2016–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The LT4 Blackwing is a motorsport-derived engine designed for high-stress environments. Early data from 2016–2025 shows excellent reliability when maintained per Cadillac specifications. No widespread durability issues have been reported. Regular oil changes (every 15,000 km), use of correct GM dexos1 Gen 3 oil, and adherence to warm-up/cool-down procedures ensure long-term reliability. The engine's forged internals and robust block support high performance with minimal wear when serviced correctly.
Primary concerns include supercharger drive belt tensioner failure (especially pre-2018), fuel injector coking from low-quality fuel, and valve stem seal wear under sustained high-RPM use. These are anticipated in high-performance operation and are addressed through preventive maintenance per GM service guidelines.
The LT4 Blackwing is currently used exclusively in the CTS-V and CT5-V. It is Cadillac's high-output supercharged V8 developed specifically for their top-tier performance luxury models. No other Cadillac production vehicles use this engine. It is not available in the standard CTS or CT5. The engine was not licensed to any other manufacturer.
Yes, though factory engines are tightly controlled. ECU remapping can yield +50-80 PS safely on stock hardware, but risks voiding warranty and may trigger knock control. Aftermarket upgrades like performance intercoolers, exhausts, and pulley kits allow greater gains. Due to the engine's high factory output, tuning requires expert calibration. Most owners preserve the factory setup due to its track-optimized calibration.
In combined driving, expect 15.0–18.0 L/100km (19–16 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve ~13.0 L/100km (~22 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 20.0 L/100km (14 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend heavily on driving style, with CT5-V models generally less efficient than CTS-V. The engine's performance focus prioritizes power over efficiency.
Yes. The LT4 Blackwing is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or skips, pistons will contact open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. While the double-row roller chain is durable, any signs of rattle or tensioner wear should be investigated immediately to prevent engine seizure. Regular oil changes help maintain chain tensioner function and lubrication under high-RPM conditions.
GM specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting dexos1 Gen 3 standard. Use only high-quality synthetic designed for high-performance petrol engines. Change oil every 15,000 km or annually to protect supercharger, valvetrain, and timing chain. Proper lubrication is essential for long-term reliability, especially under sustained load or track operation.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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CADILLAC Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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