Ready to write new chapter for Cadillac
The all-new Cadillac CTS luxury sedan, which made its world premiere in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, will head for Europe in fall 2007. Just as its predecessor helped change the perception of the brand on its debut in 2002, the new model is set to write a new chapter for the Cadillac name, bringing enhanced engines and transmissions as well as exciting new styling inside and out.
"Cadillac has engineered an historic renaissance, with a completely new product portfolio, driven in large part by the original CTS," said general manager Jim Taylor. "The CTS has built a strong record of success on many levels. It exceeded our goals for sales volume, set new design trends, won championships in racing, and earned awards for quality and customer satisfaction. The next chapter promises to be even more dramatic."
Inspired by Cadillac’s landmark Sixteen concept car, the exterior styling of the CTS is new and dramatic, yet immediately recognisable. The large, chrome dual-textured grille is more vertical in shape and is both more aggressive and intricate. The front fascia is balanced by vertically stacked headlamps with bright bezels stacked in a staircase-like array. A lower air intake is flanked on both sides by fog lamps and brake ducts.
The top-level power option of the new Cadillac CTS features GM’s new 3.6L direct-injection V-6 VVT engine, delivering an estimated 223 kW (300 horsepower) and 366 Nm of torque. This complements 192kW 3.6L V6, and 156kW 2.8L V6 models.
With direct injection, fuel is delivered directly to the combustion chamber to create a more complete burn of the air/fuel mixture. The application of direct-injection technology on the 3.6L VVT engine contributes greatly to a 15-percent increase in horsepower; an 8-percent increase in torque and a 3-percent improvement in brake-specific fuel consumption. Additionally, the application of direct injection reduces cold-start hydrocarbon emissions by 25 percent.
For the first time, the Cadillac CTS will be available in both rear- and all-wheel-drive configurations. The transmission line up offers exclusively six-speed units with an Aisin six-speed manual or, new for CTS, a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic.
The new CTS measures 4766 mm long, 1841 mm wide and 1472 mm in height. Wheelbase is 2880 mm with a front/rear track of 1575/1585 mm. The track is five centimetre wider than the outgoing model, giving a more planted, well-grounded appearance, in addition to accommodating the optional all-wheel drive configuration. The wider stance also enables more tumblehome, the vehicle sides are sculpted inward to give a more dynamic appearance and a lower roof line without compromising headroom or the spacious interior.
Seven-spoke, 17-inch wheels highlight larger high-performance brake calipers and rotors. Both painted and machined finishes are available for the standard 17-inch wheels. Optional nine-spoke, 18-inch wheels are offered with a premium multicoat or high-polish finish.
The CTS interior represents a different, new design theme for Cadillac interiors. Advances in surface development, technology, materials and construction combine to emphasize technical precision with elegant, hand-crafted details, precise tailoring and luxurious character.
The suspension, braking and steering systems feature extensive changes to increase responsiveness, premium “feel” and performance in spirited driving conditions. The front suspension features a new tower-to-tower brace that adds cross-car stiffness and enhances the overall steering feel. This is an innovation from the high-performance CTS-V model that has been modified for use in all new CTS models.
“The all-new Cadillac CTS embodies a contemporary revival of two of the brand’s great traditions: innovative technology and precise craftsmanship,” said Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. “In the CTS they come wrapped in a new overall shape that gives an edgy and contemporary character, with an injection of elegance.”
The new CTS will make its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2007. Start of sales will be fall 2007.
