Category Archives: Cadillac Models

Re: W.Pa. ‘gearhead’ styles for GM – ATS Rumor

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Nice local boy makes good article here about GM Designer Dave Ross: W.Pa. ‘gearhead’ styles for GM – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

My favorite part:

“I recently took a tour of the Warren design center with (GM vice president, Global Design) Ed Welburn, and we saw everything out through 2014,” said John Wolkonowicz, auto analyst at IHS Global Insight in Lexington, Mass. “GM is doing absolutely fantastic design work.”

Wolkonowicz signaled out one model of the 2013 model year Cadillac he and his IHS colleagues have dubbed the ATS. Due out in mid-2012, the Cadillac will be the size of a BMW 3-series, and styled and given the performance to compete with that vehicle, acknowledged as the world’s best selling luxury car.

I am (as always) ready for the ATS to be out now now now, but good to hear more rumors on when it actually WILL arrive.  Previously we thought the ATS would arrive in 2012 or 2013, so this is right in line.

Please see our ATS / Alpha coverage.

Cadillac has not said the vehicle would be called the ATS yet, but the press has been using that as a likely name.  The new 270hp  3L (LF1) premium DI V6 seems a natural powerplant for the ATS, but I would also like to see an up-power option.

CTS 3L Direct Injection V6

CTS 3L Direct Injection V6

Original Article referenced: W.Pa. ‘gearhead’ styles for GM – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Cadillac Converj – is it a Cadillac Volt?

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Recently I posted a Cadillac Converj Catchup article for those of you not keeping up with developments.  Also, you can check the index for any articles that address Converj here.  The Converj will use a similar Voltec powertrain, (formerly knows as E-flex), and base chassis as the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, but will be specified, built, and tuned for Luxury Performance as a Cadillac.

We know that the Converj will look like this on the outside:

Cadillac Converj Concept Introduction at 2009 NAIAS

Bob Lutz with Cadillac Converj Prototype

And it should be noted that this design has proven very popular as a path for Cadillac, so we may see the same design influences on other models.

But what about underneath the skin? Here is the Voltec Powertrain that is being pioneered on the Chevrolet Volt and will be featured in a tuned, Luxury Performance variant in the upcoming Cadillac Converj:

Cadillac Converj Chassis & Powertrain

Voltec Chassis & Powertrain

So is the Converj just a Cadillac version of the Volt? Yes and no.

  • They will share the Voltec powertrain. They will both be extended range electric vehicles.
  • The Converj may or may not use the same engine as the Volt for extended range operation — the Converj may get a more premium power unit.
  • The Converj may carry more battery reserves than the Volt, and have a longer electric-only range.
  • The Converj may be tuned electronically to be a more sporting performer than the Volt.
  • Finally, the interior appointments and standard equipment level for the Converj will mirror the accoutrements that Cadillac owners have come to expect.

It will be the Cadillac of Extended Range Electric Vehicles.

Re: Cadillac CTS Coupe set to do battle with European brands

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Reading this article on LuxVelocity.com: Cadillac CTS Coupe set to do battle with European brands.

The Cadillac CTS Sedan was introduced in 2003.  It has been a successful keystone of the current Cadillac Renaissance.  Cadillac has been ‘bringing it’ with the Escalade, CTS, CTS-V, and now the new redesigned 2010 SRX.  However, they also had sales misses with the RWD STS from 2005, and the first generation SRX.

In person the Cadillac CTS Coupe is a jewel, and is visually magnetic.  I think it will do VERY well in sales.

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

I have always felt that looks were the cause of poor sales of the 2005-2009 Cadillac STS.  Specifically, the front hood is flat and really gives the vehicle a plain look.  Certainly NOT what you want in an upmarket luxury sedan.  Compare the STS with the CTS or peaked hood of the STS-V below; and this is after the STS was ‘freshened’.

I mean after all, the STS is basically an upmarket, better optioned CTS with more rear leg room; what’s not to like?  It is an oddity of sales that very simple things make or break the success of a car model.

Cadillac STS

Cadillac STS

Cadillac STS-V

Cadillac STS-V

2003-2007 Cadillac CTS

2003-2007 Cadillac CTS

Cadillac CTS Coupe:  The CTS re-invented?

From the article:

This new CTS is will do battle with German competitors to get buyers looking for a mid level luxury coupe. The new Cadillac CTS Coupe is edgy and attractive from every angle. Most notable is the rear design with the mid form lay out of the exhaust which is super aggressive. The stance of the car sits two inches lower than the Cadillac CTS sedan which provides a more sporty stance for the vehicle.

“Cadillac has always been an emotional brand – it’s about delivering art regardless of body style,” said Max Wolff, director of exterior design for Cadillac. “With the CTS Coupe, it was about taking something very strong – the CTS Sport Sedan – and extending its potential.”

I totally agree — Cadillac Style is not just about delivering the best technology, a great Cadillac should also be a work of art.

Read more on LuxVelocity.com: Cadillac CTS Coupe set to do battle with European brands.