Cadillac Introduces First-Ever Twin-Turbo V-8 Engine

Cadillac has further enhanced its reputation for high performance with the launch of its new twin-turbo V-8 engine. The engine is slated to be available in the Middle East by 2019, and will serve as the focal point of the new CT6 V-Sport. The CTS V-Sport will be positioned as an engaging sports sedan that will incorporate elements of Cadillac’s renowned motorsports program.

The twin-turbo V-8 engine was developed as a small-displacement V-8 and offers outstanding power density of 131 hp (98 kW) per liter. Exclusive to Cadillac, this 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 engine is estimated to have an output of 550 horsepower (410 kW) and 627 lb-ft of torque (850 Nm). It will take the performance of the CT6 to an entirely new level to provide motorists with an unmatched experience behind the wheel. There will also be an optional 500-horsepower variant of the new engine.

Commenting on the new engine, Christian Soemmer, Managing Director, Cadillac Middle East said that with the new and exclusive 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 engine, the company would be presenting to its Middle East customers a new, higher level driving experience, which would be even more exhilarating than what they would usually expect to get from a Cadillac From the time Cadillac launched its first V-series model in the region, it has consistently received excellent feedback from its customers, attesting to their interest n high-performance cars. Motorists in the region are very enthusiastic about a high-adrenaline driving experience and this embodies Cadillac performance both on and off the racetrack.

The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 engine comes with certain unique design elements that have been developed to combine performance and efficiency with compact, mass-efficient packaging.

The most distinctive feature of the 4.2L Twin Turbo V-8 is a “hot V” configuration. This design transposes the conventional layout of the cylinder heads’ intake and exhaust systems and the turbochargers are mounted at the top of the engine. This significantly reduces turbo lag and makes the engine more compact.

An all-new, durable and lightweight aluminum cylinder block serves as the foundation of the new engine and it houses an equally strong, lightweight rotating assembly made of a forged steel crankshaft, forged steel connecting rods and high-strength aluminum pistons.

The size and weight of the pistons is lower thanks to the engine’s comparatively small-bore dimension. Thus, the engine’s geometry is optimized to match the fast-rev capability that is permitted by the engine’s low-inertia, twin-scroll turbochargers. The outcome is exceptional responsiveness and immediacy of power across the rpm band.

The turbochargers sport a twin-scroll design that improves their performance capability, resulting in quicker response and greater efficiency. The twin-scroll design incorporates a divided housing having two exhaust gas inlets and two nozzles to drive the turbine. While one of the nozzles improves the response and boosts production, the other contributes to overall peak performance.

Each of the engine’s integrated exhaust manifolds/turbocharger housings splits the exhaust channels from the cylinder head so the exhaust flows through separate scrolls based on the engine’s exhaust pulses. When this separation is matched with precise valve timing, it leverages exhaust-scavenging techniques to optimize gas flow, improves turbine efficiency and reduces turbo lag.

An efficient water-to-air charge-cooling system contributes to the engine’s performance, enhancing the turbochargers’ effectiveness, through an optimal combustion and more power.

The new Cadillac Twin Turbo V-8 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Its wide, 7.39 overall gear ratio spread enhances off-the-line performance and contributes to reduced engine speed on the highway, thus boosting efficiency. Smaller steps between the gears also help the engine maintain the optimal speed for maximum power at almost all vehicle speeds.