Saying that two-thirds of American adults already known how to drive with a manual transmission, “and more are interested in learning,” Cadillac has announced it will offer a 6-speed stick shift in its 2022 CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing vehicles.
The company has released a photograph of the medallion that will be mounted on the manual shifter, and notes that it will be 3D-printed, as will two of the Blackwings’ HVAC ducts and the vehicles’ electrical harness bracket.
Cadillac said the Blackwings will “mark the revival of one of the most popular features for driving enthusiasts – the manual transmission.”
“A lot of work went into making the manual possible in both vehicles,” Mirza Grebovic, Cadillac performance variant manager, is quoted in the announcement. “It’s something we know V-Series buyers want and it’s something we knew we had to have, so we used innovative processes to make it happen. There are a few ways to really get that connected feel with the vehicle and the manual transmission is probably the most obvious one.”
Cadillac added that the 6-speed will be the standard transmission, with a 10-speed automatic as an option. It also said the Blackwing manual “is both quieter and more durable than the previous generation.”
The GM luxury division also said it commissioned a recent Harris Poll regarding manual transmissions. That study revealed that 66 percent of American adults know how to drive with a manual transmission, and that of those who do not, some 40 percent are either somewhat or very interested in learning.
In addition, 55 percent of American adults surveyed said they have owned or leased a car with a manual gearbox. The study also showed that those with an annual income of $75,000 or more were more interested in driving or learning to drive with a manual and that 62 percent of those 18-34 years of age also expressed interest.
Cadillac previously announced that its Blackwings will be the only GM vehicles “in the near future” to come riding on lightweight magnesium wheels, and the cars will offer lightweight carbon fiber seats.
“The optional forged magnesium alloy wheels will help reduce the unsprung weight of the vehicle, improving ride and handling, and the overall driving experience,” Cadillac said.
Cadillac introduced its V-Series of high-performance cars in 2004 and manual transmissions were available. The 2019 CT6-V was an all-wheel-driven sedan powered by a 4.2-liter twin-turbocharged V8 rated at 550 horsepower.
The 2022 Blackwings are to be available in summer 2021, Cadillac added.
For updates and more information, visit the Blackwing website.
I’m shocked that 66% of adults can drive a manual transmission. I would’ve guessed closer to 30%.
I thought Cadillac was moving to all electric?