2018 Cadillac CT6 PHEV Plug In Hybrid Review and Comparison

[@james2042]

2:24 "I found this hybrid system very impressive and I hope Cadillac brings this to more models in the United States" *Cadillac proceeds to axe this from the lineup with no solid data on when anything electric will return to Cadillac before 2023*

[@win25041994]

"Two Black Cadillacs" - Love the easter eggs Alex!

[@KillroyX99]

Cadillac only sold ~24 of these in the US in 2019

[@normt5463]

There was no 2019 CT6E models in the U.S.

[@kolt9051]

I like the styling too! Actually, the CT6 is the only modern caddy I like the look of.

[@BanBiofuels]

I agree with you, Alex. It's a great looking dignified and tasteful sedan.

[@HIMTOFFICIAL]

Caddy with a plug?! Now you got my attention Cadillac 😉

[@MikeLoomis]

May I direct your attention to the Cadillac ELR from a few years ago. And it had longer ev range than this.

[@fgeiger41]

CT6 is the most attractive design in its class to me. I don't need full size but would have one just on looks alone. I hate that they're rrefreshing it already. Looked like they were toning it down some.

[@bassistdc]

The CT6, Equus and Genesis G90 are the only large Lux sedans that appeal to me.

[@MattCharnock]

Kudos on the Carrie Underwood plug. Well done, Alex. Wel done.

[@ltkwok2961]

28 million cars were sold in China in 2017. Compared to 17 million in the USA, the worlds #2 market.

[@normt5463]

Only 53 mile on battery only at 19:11. That is Volt territory! Definitely beats our 2018 CT6E battery only 40.2 miles on a EPA 31 miles.

[@gregsullivan7408]

As a chauffeur, the reduction in trunk space is a show-stopper fail, but in any case, we don't get the CT6 over here in Australia. ☹️

[@Trades46]

I sadly forgot about this car when I was looking at a PHEV for my mother - we ended up in a Ford Fusion Energi Titanium but honestly for nearly about the same money a CT6 PHEV wouldn't have been too far of a stretch.

[@derek4187]

I know this is 5 months later but I've been shopping between the 2 of these as well. They're so close in terms of options and ride comfort she definitely didn't miss much.

[@normt5463]

@@derek4187 with prices down to almost sub-$30K makes it good deal today.

[@denvera1g1]

I REALLLY wish in systems like this they would drive the rear wheels with the engine directly, and the two front wheels with electric, this gives you pretty good all wheel drive, and the regenerative braking could be more aggressive IF the battery pack and charge system were up to the task

[@tomeng9520]

2018 Volvo S90 T8 PHEV is killing it.

[@naarealy]

I don't really care where it's made. If the production and assembly process is well engineered, the final product will be comprable no matter what continent the assembly people are standing on.

[@normt5463]

Yes! Especially today!

[@dude...are-you-sure]

It's a crying shame cadillac decided to end the ct6 back in 2020. The last year of the ct6 with blackwing is such an underrated car. Too bad it's life was cut short. This hybrid could have been the end all for this class but just too many missed opportunities that would have set this apart from the rest of the class.

[@joepah51]

A full size luxury car with a trunk size of a convertible.. What were they thinking? Leasing is the only option for this car.. Who wants to own a 5 year old Cadillac PHEV? It is impressive that the combined fuel milage was around 40 mpg, when Alex plugged the Caddy in at night.

[@parijatsharma4430]

Given it is a RWD, how well does it drive in winter/snowy conditions? I am looking at a second hand now.

[@derek4187]

The battery adds about 400 pounds to the rear so it will be fine except for the need to learn how differently rear wheel drive handles in the snow.

[@masterofwhales]

The comparison with S90. Is that the comparison with 2017 model or 2018 model?

[@viralvarshney]

Alex... Amazing detail and review as always... What are your thoughts on panamera S e-hybrid 2014 - 2016 compared to this car? I'm thinking of getting a luxury performance phev and panamera is on top of my list...

[@normt5463]

Besides being a Porsche and offering less efficient V6 compared to CT6E the Porsche will be more expensive used.

[@MikeLoomis]

Cadillacs look awesome, but that color they gave you doesn't do it any favors.

[@MarriageEq2013]

It’s a minor nitpick, but in the video at around the 5 minute mark you stated that it can operate with the gas engine on in a serial mode, a parallel mode, or in one of 3 fixed gears. I’m pretty sure that, like the 2nd generation Volt, the CT6 Hybrid does not have a serial (series) mode. Also, the 3 fixed gears are actually the parallel modes. When not in one of the 3 fixed gears the car is in one of several series/parallel modes similar to the 2 series/parallel modes in the 2nd generation Volt. In fact, the CT6 Hybrid transmission is a direct architectural extension of the 2nd generation Volt design with extra clutches and a 3rd planetary gear set but packaged into a rear wheel drive package.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It depends on how you look at is of course, but Cadillac's engineers say that the car can operate in a serial mode "when needed" but give little detail on exactly when that is. Based on what Ive seen on the design this mode is psychically possible, but again, I don't know how often it is used. The fixed ratios can be combined in a few different ways but according to Cadillac are mainly used in steady state driving where power is fed mechanically from engine to wheels and extra oomph may or may not be provided by the motors. It's possible to basically have as close to zero discharge as possible from the battery.

[@naarealy]

Interesting. From my limited reading, I understood that is was conceptually similar to a Gen2 Volt, but borrowing the fixed ratio ability from the earlier GM 2Mode Hybrids used in large SUVs and trucks. In effect, it is a hybrid of GMs two prior hybrid transmissions. If this is true, it would have the ability (depending on calibration) to operate in every conceivable PHEV mode; EV, serial, parallel, and even direct ICE to wheels via a fixed "highway" ratio with electric motors being bypassed.

[@MarriageEq2013]

Hi Alex. I finally had time today to go reread GM’s SAE technical paper 2016-01-1150 titled “General Motors Electric Variable Transmission for Cadillac CT6 Sedan”. This paper, written by principal GM transmission engineers, describes the PHEV CT6 Hybrid transmission. As I correctly recalled in my comment 6 days ago, the CT6 Hybrid transmission has no “series” or “serial” mode - there is no clutch to mechanically detach the gas engine from the wheels. The CT6 Hybrid transmission has 4 power-split (sort of Prius-like) hybrid modes, 3 fixed gear parallel hybrid modes, and no series or serial modes. If you care to verify this, the SAE paper can be purchased online for $28.

[@MarriageEq2013]

naarealy You are correct that the CT6 is a direct extension of the 2nd generation Volt transmission design. When the gas engine is running, the 2nd gen Volt has 2 power-split modes and a single fixed gear ratio parallel mode. The CT6 adds extra clutches and an extra planetary gear set as an addition to the clutches and 2 planetary gear sets in the 2nd generation Volt. This ends up giving the CT6 an extra 2 power-split mode’s and an extra 2 fixed gear ratio parallel modes. Neither the 2nd gen Volt or the CT6 hybrid have a serial-only mode where the gas engine is only connected to a generator.

[@masterofwhales]

Emergency charger = 18 hours to charge. Yep, GM logic checks out.

[@normt5463]

The engine only can see 35 mpg at 65 mph for hours on end or until you find Level 2.

[@ORION2180]

Love the style, not the hybrid numbers. Give me the Lexus ES300h without the need to plug in.

[@fiifijohnson5139]

Or give me 30 miles of no gas when I have to run errands town or before getting on the highway plus the same hybrid numbers as a Lexus ES300h. If you’re job 20 mins away, guess what.. no need for gas.

[@aeriose]

Seems like this is just a cop out for an EV/PHEV vehicle. If they're going to do it, they should add more options and change the actually design of the car so cargo room is not affected. I doubt it will sell well.

[@swanblake]

aeriose honestly every GM product is a cop out

[@davidk4682]

Is this vehicle worth it in 2024?

[@BTC909]

Better chances of seeing a Unicorn on the road over one of these.

[@Trades46]

Honestly it doesn't matter even if Cadillac doesn't even move 10 off the lot in its lifespan in North America. This is designed and engineered for China - Shanghai has more EV than California in its entirety. I still would wish Cadillac would use this system for its SUV since large sedans are pretty much dead in the American market.

[@TheLongLouis]

Nice.

[@ktl2001]

Why cant they made it awd with the 1 motor in front for the turbo engine and an electric rear wheel drive? This would leave the tunnel to move half of the battery in it and free up some luggage room and improve handling. No sure why the engineer would go with the route of keeping the drive shaft! At this price 75K people would pick the Model S over this.

[@naarealy]

Probably because unlike the volvo S90, the Omega platform that underpins the CT6 is inherently RWD, and cannot accommodate a transverse, front wheel drive powertrain.

[@blitzbbffl]

I don't understand how you can say that you love the way the CT6 hybrid system works - after hearing you describe the awkward transition from EV power to ICE/EV power while accelerating.

[@naarealy]

The Gen1 Volt displays similar behavior under certain circumstances when requesting more than about 70% power. There is a momentary but obvious decrees in motive force, followed by a rush of power as the transmission changes from dual motor (more efficient) to single motor (more powerful) drive. The effect is similar to a gear change in other cars. It's a bit slower than a normal gear change, but much smoother. It's an eccentricity you learn to live with, and it doesn't happen very often unless you drive very aggressively.

[@blitzbbffl]

naarealy -Thanks for your explanation.

[@MarriageEq2013]

naarealy You are describing the transition between steady-state driving in the 1st generation Volt’s highway power-split mode into its serial hybrid mode when it needs to drive high torque (strong acceleration) to the wheels. The 2nd generation Volt works differently. It still may need to switch clutches from a steady highway speed power-split mode into its other power-split mode that can transmit higher torque output to the wheels but this transition is much smoother than the power-split to serial mode transition in the original Volt. The CY6 hybrid, as a conceptual design extension of the 2nd gen Volt transmission, should have smoother transitions than the pause in the 1st gen Volt but I have no personal experience driving the CT6 Hybrid. From Alex’s description, it seems that the transition was noticeable but not unpleasant and did not significantly detract from his enjoyment of driving the car.

[@michelellison9687]

Looking at this to replace my ELR. They are hard to come by. When I do find one they are either way on the west coast, or way on the east coast.

[@fiifijohnson5139]

Same here! I live in New York and the one I did find here isn’t even available.

[@GigginQuick]

I have to say I’m pretty disappointed. $80k for a basic-looking CT6 with a big battery that takes up half the trunk. I would certainly like a PHEV as my next car, but the Volt is too small, the CT6 is too expensive, the Honda Clarity has an odd style I can’t get past, and the other PHEVs are just too boring.

[@MrConor159]

It's almost like they don't want to sell it with it only being in one trim. Hopefully they kill off the ice options for electric only next gen.

[@b4804514]

GM is owned by the oil companies IMO and will never embrace fuel usage less than what the government requires. Although the Chinese market makes it a tougher call for the decision makers

[@normt5463]

@@b4804514 I thought China owned them, not oil companies?

[@keithjackson4985]

It's a nice looking design. It's not going to sell well. Not because it's made in China. Not because it's a hybrid. Cadillac does not sweat the details! I sat in one with massaging seats at the Detroit auto show. It felt like I was being poked in the back with two broomsticks! Last point. You know who should run Cadillac? Nick Saban!

[@powerofpinesol8002]

I’m sorry but that interior just plain sucks the new Kia K900 has a way better looking interior and it’s a Kia

[@naveenkrishnamurthy7576]

Power of Pine Sol and it’s a lot cheaper almost 30K cheaper

[@TurkVladimir]

Thanks 👍😊👍

[@SSSDDDOOOGGG]

What does the 82.7 mean? is it the legroom in centimeters?

[@RaofKGN]

Please change your intro music

[@bird718]

the caddy isnt a good looker, the rear ends not nice, i wish they do something with tail fins again.

[@musinclind37]

Buy a car for a more luxurious cabin doesn't make a lot of sense if the driving dynamics are not as good.

[@MrSinobi52]

How is Cadillac still in business?

[@GigginQuick]

By making their cars in China

[@ltkwok2961]

18.4 kWh battery!

[@normt5463]

Good for 40 miles on battery!

[@bird718]

i was looking to buy a 80k plug in hyrbid american car but...... oh well.......

[@MichaelMercer1]

Title says PHEV review, yet not a word on that. 2018 Cadillac CT6 PHEV Plug In Hybrid Review and Comparison

[@josepharcher9620]

Looks very generic. What hv you done to my Six!??

[@ALEX-sh3tx]

Better than the Lexus small shit that looks like it wants to eat everything

[@sheridanbucket]

Interesting... but, you lost me at "made in China." I've been Chinesed enough.

[@ltkwok2961]

When GM was in bankruptcy, China was the only place where it was profitable. A lot of Buicks.

[@sheridanbucket]

Thank you for reminding me, LT. GM received about $49Billion from the American Taxpayers, which GM only paid back a fraction of that amount. GM never paid back, in full, the amount it accepted from the Taxpayers; and, actually owes the Taxpayers more than the entire company is worth! As thanks to the American workers, GM builds cars in China, under the guise that it is more 'profitable'. Ya dance with who brung ya, LT.

[@cadsux]

China buys more American cars than we do, despite tariffs. Last year GM sold 4 million cars in China, and 2 million in the U.S. And standard Corvettes are sold for $250k over there.

[@cadsux]

GM builds cars everywhere, typically in the markets where they sell, just like Toyota builds Camrys here. GM has Opel in Europe & Holden in Australia. One Cadillac model from China is not the same as multiple Buick models from Europe. Remember the Chevy SS & Pontiac G8? Foreign, but didn't sell. American autoworkers are safe!

[@sheridanbucket]

cadsux, if Chinese made cars are your thing, then buy one. I think that this Cadillac is an interesting car, but my personal preference is to support Made In America. For example: Geely owns Volvo, Volvo has a plant in South Carolina, therefore I will be interested in Volvo's S60 (Made In America). I will only be interested in GM cars which are Made In America, and that's just the way it's gonna be. ^^

[@killacamfoo]

lol

[@cedricm5153]

I still don't see the point of this car. It's just not competitive.

[@swanblake]

China special. Made in China, for China. There supposed most technology advanced vehicle in the plug in it, doesnt even have the ability of super cruise like the rest of the CT6 lineup. Literally all the competition is better. Maybe another coffee shop in New York will help them?

[@jaylee8703]

Volvo is also CHINESE !!

[@pioneer7777777]

So lame that they would take out one of the coolest features, super cruise.

[@airhorn2111]

Once again, this is why Japan is beating us.

[@pedromartin4437]

Made In China

[@jaylee8703]

VOLVO TOO !! Look it up Autotrader.. first digit is L for both S90 and also recent S60's.

[@stanwbaker]

When did the Chinese take over Hamtramck Michigan?

[@pedromartin4437]

Stan Baker This hybrid CT6 is made in China not Michigan. Only a matter of time before all CT6 production moves to China.

[@quietguy1948]

Over priced... too gimmicky.

[@GigginQuick]

and made in China.

[@ParanoiaGentlman]

That's bmw 7 series

[@normt5463]

@@GigginQuick as you type that on your China device. Volvo T8 is also assembled in China.

[@rueben44]

To much damn talking I could not take it 4 minutes in.

[@smarticus6384]

Stopped watching at Made in China.

[@normt5463]

As you type that on your China-made electronic device.

[@james2042]

Lol you're better off just not buying a general motors vehicle. who's dumb enough to still buy them?

[@normt5463]

Over 2 million new owners annually would disagree!

[@tarassu]

Cadillac looks like China.