Cadillac took care of its big updates for the CT5 back in '25, so this year carries that momentum forward. Its chief rival, the BMW 2 Series, sticks with its current setup for 2026. So, while there's not much to consider in the way of surprises, let's take a look at engine options, performance range, and how much great tech you can get from each.
Key Takeaways
- New exterior colors for the CT5 are the only real update for 2026; the BMW 2 Series stays virtually unchanged.
- The CT5 offers a wider range of engines, including a supercharged V8 that the 2 Series doesn't match. (See the Blackwing specs below.)
- Cadillac gives you more modern tech, highlighted by its 33-inch curved display.
What's New in the Cadillac CT5 and BMW 2 Series
Cadillac keeps the CT5 lineup straightforward with Premium Luxury, Sport, and the range-topping CT5-V. There aren't any major changes for 2026 beyond a few new exterior color options.
As of April 8, 2026, trim prices are:
- Premium Luxury: $50,995
- Sport: $51,995
- V-Series: $60,095
The CT5-V Blackwing ranges in price from $102,795 to $158,000.
The 2 Series Coupe is a carryover for 2026, with no major updates. Pricing for its trims is:
- 230i: $43,550
- 230i xDrive: $45,550
- M240i: $54,950
- M240i xDrive: $56,950
CT5 and BMW 2 Series Powertrain Differences
The CT5's standard engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 237 horsepower. It works well enough for everyday driving, but the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 delivers more performance, with 335 horsepower in standard form or 360 ponies in the CT5-V. The V model also adds Magnetic Ride Control and a limited-slip differential. Both engines mate with a 10-speed automatic and your choice of rear-or all-wheel drive.
The CT5-V Blackwing features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing a whopping 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft. It remains one of the few cars in this class that still offers a manual transmission alongside that level of output. In fact, it's manual that's standard here; automatic is an option.
The BMW 230i comes with a 255-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the M240i uses a 382-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. Both use an eight-speed automatic transmission and offer rear- or all-wheel drive.
Top Tech Features in the CT5 vs the BMW 2 Series
The CT5 features a stunning 33-inch curved display that stretches across the dash. It combines the driver display and infotainment into one setup and runs Google-based software with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Performance-focused apps that show dyno-style power and torque graphs, along with readouts for things like tire temperature and engine data, are part of the picture as well.
Wireless charging and three USB ports come standard, along with SiriusXM and a Wi-Fi hotspot. You can also add a head-up display and surround-view camera. Audio is handled by a 15-speaker AKG system as standard, with a 16-speaker version available on the Blackwing.
The BMW 2 Series also has a single curved glass panel stretching across its dash with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster alongside a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. The system runs BMW's iDrive 8.5 software and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can control it through the touchscreen, a center control pad, or voice commands. A seven-speaker audio system comes standard, while a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon setup is available as an upgrade.
Tech Features
| 2026 Cadillac CT5 |
2026 BMW 2 Series |
| 33-inch curved display (cluster + infotainment) |
12.3-inch cluster + 14.9-inch touchscreen |
| Google-based system with built-in navigation |
iDrive 8.5 system |
| Wireless charging, USB ports, Wi-Fi, SiriusXM |
Wireless connectivity; customizable display layouts; |
| 15-speaker AKG (16-speaker optional) |
7-speaker standard (12-speaker optional) |
Which Is the Best Luxury Daily Driver in 2026?
The BMW 2 Series keeps things tight with its smaller footprint, which is fine if that's exactly what you're after. But the CT5 gives you more room to really flex, with its engine and tech options. On top of that, there's even a supercar in the series. Give us a shout at Reliable Cadillac today to see the lineup for yourself!