"We are determined to repeat what CTS has already achieved in design, quality, driving dynamics, performance, and fuel economy to grow our presence in this high-volume and highly competitive segment," GM President and CEO Fritz Henderson said, referring to an entry-level vehicle destined for Cadillac.
In order to compete in the entry-level luxury segment, which consists of stalwarts like the BMW 1-Series and Audi A3, Cadillac will need to capitalize on the success of the CTS, as Fritz suggests. The unnamed Caddy will have "high tech-engines, rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive," according to GM's press release. Seeing as GM has only one platform that fits that bill, we're guessing the automaker is literally going to "repeat what CTS has already achieved" - by using a modified version of the Sigma II platform that the CTS is built on.
GM did not announce details of the mysterious fifth vehicle for Cadillac, but Automotive News has some information on what is predicted to be the brand's new flagship sedan. According to Automotive News sources, the rumored XTS will be the fifth vehicle to be introduced by 2011, and it will be based on a modified version of GM's new global front-wheel (or all-wheel drive midsized) platform, Epsilon II. The 2010 Buick LaCrosse is currently the only U.S. vehicle employing the Epsilon II architecture.
Speculation says the XTS will likely have all-wheel drive optional, if not standard. The sources say the platform will be stretched and widened to better compete with larger sedans. Cadillac wants to focus on cabin comfort in its new flagship, so we can likely expect lots of technology and creature comforts. The new vehicle will likely replace both the DTS and STS sedans.
Automotive News says GM isn't being secretive about the XTS project. It showed images of the concept car to dealers in Detroit last month. The automaker reportedly told the Canadian Auto Workers that two new mid-sized sedans would be assembled at the Oshawa, Ontario, plant, one of which could very well be a Cadillac. Chris Buckley, CAW Local 222 president, said the specific models were not revealed.
It's going to be a turbulent year for Cadillac as it launches these new models, but with a relatively impressive streak of vehicles already under its belt, we're excited to see where GM takes its luxury brand with these new sedans.
Source: Automotive News, GM