GM Confirms Entry-Level RWD Cadillac

Drowned out by the news of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt's projected 230 miles per gallon city fuel efficiency rating was confirmation from GM that two previously unannounced vehicles will join the Cadillac lineup, one of which - an entry-level vehicle - was specifically called out.

"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.