
The maximum speed of the CT5 can reach 180 km/h. Below is relevant information about vehicle speed: 1. Definition of vehicle speed: Vehicle speed refers to the distance a vehicle travels per unit of time, commonly measured in kilometers per hour (km/h) or meters per second (m/s). 2. Speed regulations for vehicles: Motor vehicles must not exceed the speed limit indicated by road signs. On roads without a centerline, the speed limit is 30 km/h in urban areas and 40 km/h on highways. On roads with only one lane in the same direction, the speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas and 70 km/h on highways. When making turns, the maximum speed for motor vehicles must not exceed 30 km/h.

The CT5 has an officially rated top speed of 240 km/h, which is the data under electronic speed limitation. After driving my friend's CT5 rear-wheel-drive luxury version, I found the 2.0T engine paired with the 10AT transmission to be incredibly powerful, but you need to choose an open and safe testing ground for it. In fact, the car's power reserve is more than capable of exceeding 250 km/h, but the factory limits the speed to protect the tires. During everyday highway driving, it's noticeably cruising at 120 km/h with just 1800 rpm, and the acceleration in the higher speed range still delivers strong push-back force, with the chassis being so stable it gives you a great sense of security.

The CT5's speedometer has a maximum reading of 280 km/h, while the actual top speed is around 240 km/h. During mountain driving in Sport mode with full throttle, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in under 5 seconds with continuous power delivery. Wind noise becomes noticeably louder at 200 km/h. To unlock its full potential, an ECU tune is required to remove the electronic speed limiter, though the factory Michelin PS4S tires are only rated up to 270 km/h. It's advised to avoid high-speed driving on public roads—such speeds should be experienced safely on professional race tracks.

The North American version of the CT5-V can reach 304 km/h! The domestic standard version is limited to 240 km/h mainly due to regulatory restrictions. I tested it with the performance shift mode enabled, and its high-speed acceleration is much more aggressive than the A4L. The 10-speed transmission keeps the RPM at just 4000 when cruising at 200 km/h. Be aware that fuel consumption spikes dramatically beyond 200 km/h—the fuel gauge visibly drops. For an exhilarating drive, make sure to fill up with 98-octane fuel beforehand.

The official data is 240km/h, but it is greatly affected by wind speed and road gradient. I tested it on the highway in rainy weather, and at 190km/h, a water film started to form on the windshield, affecting visibility. The four-wheel-drive version has noticeably better grip and stability than the rear-wheel-drive version. It is recommended to opt for the version with electromagnetic suspension, as it provides excellent control over body sway during high-speed lane changes. After installing an aftermarket blow-off valve, the power response becomes faster, but the steering wheel noticeably becomes heavier after exceeding 200km/h.

When pushing the CT5 to its top speed, three key points must be noted: First, only the original performance tires can handle it—standard tires start to wobble at 180km/h. Second, traction control must be disabled to unleash full power. Third, upgrading to carbon-ceramic brake pads is highly recommended. Once, on a closed track, I hit 234km/h with the tachometer two notches shy of the redline. The wind noise from the intercooler vents sounded like a plane taking off, and the rearview mirror distorted during overtaking. By the time I exited, the brake pads were smoking.


