The refreshed 2025 Cadillac CT5 350T makes a strong statement in the UAE’s premium sedan segment. With bold styling cues, advanced cabin tech, and a potent twin‑turbo V6 under the hood, it aims to capture attention both in Dubai’s city streets and on open highways. During a week of real world driving across Abu Dhabi and Dubai highways, this CT5 showed its strengths, and a few considerations, for Middle East buyers.
From the moment it arrives, the CT5 demands attention. The facelift introduces signature vertical lighting and stacked LED headlamps up front, giving the sedan a sharper, more aggressive face. The grille is more prominent, and the overall stance feels wider and more planted. On the sides, the long wheelbase of 2,947 mm stretches the silhouette, while muscular haunches accentuate the rear wheels. With mirrors included, the width reaches 2,040 mm, which gives a substantial road presence. At 4,923 mm long and 1,453 mm tall, the CT5 carries typical midsize proportions but with added visual drama. The available Ultra View dual‑pane sunroof helps break up the roofline, giving the cabin a light, open feel from outside. In motion, the CT5 looks athletic, especially in sportier trims with contrast accents and sharper wheels.
On the road in the UAE, the CT5 didn’t feel oversized even in tight city lanes, thanks to responsive steering and a good turning circle for its class.
Step inside and the CT5 impresses with a blend of luxury and modern tech. The centerpiece is a sweeping 33‑inch diagonal advanced LED display powered by Google built‑in and OnStar, which spans much of the driver’s forward view and integrates infotainment and instrument cluster in one flowing panel. The curved screen works intuitively, with responsive touch and a rotary controller backup. An available head‑up display can project speed, navigation, phone, and media info directly into the driver's line of sight, very useful in UAE traffic.
Comfort is well addressed: front seats are heated, ventilated, and massaging, wrapped in rich leather. Rear legroom of 963 mm is decent for the segment, though very tall passengers may wish for a bit more. Front legroom is generous at 1,077 mm. Ambient lighting with 126 customizable colors adds flair to the cabin. Audio comes courtesy of the AKG Studio audio system, delivering immersive sound. The connectivity suite includes 5G WiFi hotspot and full smartphone integration.
One note: the vehicle is equipped with Super Cruise hardware, though the service is currently inactive in the UAE. Cadillac (via local GM dealers) may activate it later depending on regulations and infrastructure.
Safety is a strong point on the CT5. Cadillac has equipped it with multiple systems including Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, forward collision alert, rear cross traffic alert, and more. In city stops and tight intersections, the automatic braking and forward collision systems proved helpful in sudden brake scenarios. On faster roads, the blind zone steering assist is a reassuring feature when changing lanes at highway speeds. The adaptive safety suite helps elevate driver confidence in varied traffic conditions across UAE highways and urban areas.
Under the hood sits a 3.0 L twin‑turbocharged V6 that generates 335 horsepower (on premium gasoline) along with 550 Nm of torque. The CT5 uses a 10‑speed automatic transmission (shared across Cadillac’s lineup). The performance is brisk: the car launches smoothly in normal mode, and when pushed it responds with muscular thrust, especially in Sport or custom drive modes. In midrange passing maneuvers, the torque helps shuttle through traffic with confidence.
The chassis is well balanced, on smooth UAE highways it maintains composure, and on twisty desert backroads it exhibits good body control, though not quite at the level of hardcore sports sedans. Steering is precise and offers good feedback. The ground clearance of 102 mm means caution is needed over rough road edges and driveways. Braking feels solid with good pedal feel and confidence even after repeated heavy stops.
One caveat: during high ambient temperatures the engine cooling and transmission shifts remain composed, but extended full throttle running may push the limits (as with many high performance sedans in hot climates). Fuel consumption in spirited driving will lean toward premium usage.
Starting at AED 224,000, the 2025 CT5 350T presents a strong value proposition given its powertrain, luxury features, and tech packaging. In its segment, few rivals offer the same blend of performance, connectivity, and American character. While rear seat space and ground clearance present minor compromises, the driving experience, cabin features, and striking presence make it a compelling option for those who want something distinctive beyond German sedans.
If you are shopping in the UAE for a midsize luxury performance sedan that leans bold, the 2025 Cadillac CT5 350T merits serious consideration.
The refreshed 2025 Cadillac CT5 350T starts at AED 224,000 in the UAE. This price reflects its premium twin turbo V6 engine, advanced tech features, and luxury interior finishes.
In the UAE, the 2025 Cadillac CT5 350T comes with a 3.0‑liter twin turbocharged V6 producing 335 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque using premium gasoline.
The CT5 350T seats up to 5 passengers comfortably, offering 1,077 mm of front legroom and 963 mm of rear legroom for UAE drivers and passengers.
It measures 4,923 mm in length, 1,453 mm in height, 2,040 mm width with mirrors, and a 2,947 mm wheelbase, with a ground clearance of 102 mm, ideal for UAE roads.
The CT5 350T is equipped with Super Cruise hardware; however, the service is currently inactive in the UAE. GM dealers will notify owners if activation becomes available locally.
It includes a 33‑inch advanced LED display with Google built‑in powered by OnStar, an AKG Studio Audio System, and an available head‑up display, all designed to enhance driving in the UAE.
Standard safety features include Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking, supporting safe driving across UAE highways and city roads.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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