WHAT’S NEW
The Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid is only available in one trim, unlike the normal sedan. It costs $13,200 less than the Platinum version, but then it’s not quite as plush. It does however, outshine the conventional model in terms of fuel economy, as you’d expect. The Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid delivers 26 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The combined gasoline and electricity yielding 62 MPGe, with an impressive EV Range of 31 miles, configurable regenerative braking, and pleasing dynamics.
The CT6’s hybrid system combines the CT6’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors housed in the transmission. The 18.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides more than twice what the BMW 740e offers from its 9.2-kWh battery pack.
The Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid displays an elegant, simplistic, design with a lightweight body, excellent handling and road holding attributes. The CT6, as a whole, sports a long, low, broad-shouldered, and muscular stance. It incorporates straight edges and flatter surfaces rather than sticking to flowing curves, in a form that blends the long hood with the high shoulder and expressive wheels. Up front the CT6 displays a broad grille with the large, prominent Cadillac crest.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Entering the cabin there’s a balance of luxury and functionality. Satin chrome and stained wood trim with delicate carbon-fiber accents, and supple leather seating. The interior ambience exhibits expert craftsmanship and comfort. On top of that, there’s a standard 10.2-inch infotainment system with built-in navigation and 3 USB ports. If you’re particularly tech savvy, the Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid does support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Another useful comfort feature includes 16-way adjustable driver and passenger seats.
Safety features include as is a rear mirror camera, OnStar with auto crash notification, on-demand roadside assistance, remote door unlocking and stolen vehicle assistance. The Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid also includes a night vision system and automatic parking assist.
PERFORMANCE
The Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid draws its motive force from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 265 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque on its own. Added power comes from two electric motors coupled to an 18.4 kWh lithium battery pack. Combined system output stands at 335 horsepower and 432 lb-ft of torque. The engine and electric motors deliver energy to the rear wheels through an electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
On the whole, the 2018 Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid handles on par with other luxury sedans. With some extra oomph from the electric motors, the car sprints from 0-60 mph in an impressive 5.2 seconds. The electric steering is responsive in all modes, working with the suspension regardless of which driving mode you’re in. The Plug-in Hybrid has three drive modes: Tour for normal driving, Sport, and Hold, which conserves battery charge. In sportier driving, the Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid delivers a firm, but stable ride.
The low positioning of the battery pack contributes to the positive stability and outstanding road-holding ability. The electric motors are capable of powering the sedan up to 78 mph, with the four-cylinder gas motor only firing up to provide additional power beyond that speed. You can even just drive with one pedal when you select the regenerative braking’s most aggressive setting.
TFLCAR’S TAKE
The 2018 Cadillac CT6 Plug-In Hybrid is a pleasant step up from Cadillac’s previous humdrum image. It’s a solid and impressively agile luxury sedan, with the added benefit of greater fuel economy thanks to electrification. Trade-offs found in most hybrids include reduced trunk space, which is four feet less at 11 feet. Compared to BMW’s 7-series, the CT6 is perhaps not as visually striking, nor is the interior quite as plush, but these factors are made acceptable by its significantly lower price. It’s $10,000 less from BMW’s 740e plug-in hybrid.
The final tally rose to $76,090. after adding the Destination charge. There were no other optional costs. If the hybrid doesn’t quite suit you and you’re looking for more performance, check out our CT6 V-Sport coverage from the New York Auto Show:
SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Cadillac CT6 Plug-in Hybrid
| On Sale: | Now |
| Base MSRP: | $75,095 |
| Price as Tested: |
$76,090 |
| Engine: | 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 w/ two electric motors (18.4 kWh battery pack) |
| Drivetrain (Layout): | Longitudinally mounted front engine / Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Horsepower: | Combined system output: 335 horsepower |
| Torque: | Combined system output: 432 lb-ft |
| Transmission: | Electronic Continuously Variable automatic (ECVT) |
| Suspension: | Independent (front and rear) |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted, four-wheel vented discs |
| Tires: | Goodyear Eagle Sport 265/45 R18 A/S 101V |
| Fuel capacity: | 15.6 gallons |
| Fuel economy (EPA): | 25 Combined MPG Combined gasoline and electricity: 62 MPGe – EV Range: 31 miles. |
Dimensions:
| Wheelbase: | 122.4 inches |
| Length: | 204.1 inches |
| Width: | 74.0 inches |
| Height: | 58.0 inches |
| Turning Circle: | 37.0 feet |
| Curb Weight: | 4,530 pounds |
