Thursday, August 20, 2009

Cadillac BLS poor sales

Cadillac has had to cut back on its plans due to the financial difficulties faced by parent company General Motors.
Already, it has scaled back its European expansion plans and it has put on hold the development of a new diesel powerplant. However, Cadillac’s ambition to have a new rear-wheel-drive compact sedan to go up against the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 seems to be on track. Rumored to be called the ATS, this new compact model is anticipated to go on sale within the next two years as a global model.
Cadillac BLS killed due to poor sales

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon First Drive

2009 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagonthe new CTS Sport Wagon as a bookend to and from our first drive of the Cadillac SRX Turbo earlier this month. But we're willing to lay on the other pretend itinerary to point out how not-American the Sport Wagon seems--let's be clear, that's "not-American," not "un-American."Why that? In between commutes in the Sport Wagon, we hammered the SRX crossover ute around Milford in a revealing back-to-back comparison. The two cars might land on top of each other in price and vaguely in shape, but they're dimetrically opposed in their appeal. The 2010 Cadillac SRX is a crossover based on front-drive parts, with optional all-wheel drive and an expanded cargo area, and it's aimed at the crossover crowd also shopping tall, all-weather utes like the Land Rover LR2, BMW X3, Benz GLK, Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60.

2009 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon
In sharp contrast--just look at the D-pillar and low, low roofline, will you?--the CTS Sport Wagon bears the hallmarks of the rear-drive CTS family, which includes the CTS sedan, CTS-V sedan, and next year, the CTS Coupe. It also offers all-wheel drive and an expanded cargo area, but it's taking a direct shot at the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 Avant wagons that hang on to what remains of that compact class. It's a far smaller niche than true crossovers, and it's not growing--but the CTS Sport Wagon's a necessity as Cadillac tries to push its away into Europe's consciousness.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon Test Drive

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

DETROIT—The first station wagons were cool. These trusted family conveyances proclaimed that their owners lived the suburban American dream. They were so popular, in fact, that they became ubiquitous and eventually lost their cachet. Then Detroit gave us the minivan, the SUV and the crossover, all with tailgates and ample storage space—wagons all but disappeared. But Europeans never lost their interest in these cars, so BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi all offer sporty and luxurious wagons.

Enter Cadillac, whose mission is to compete with those luxury brands on nearly every level. The first wagon ever to wear the brand's crest-and-laurel badge was the BLS, a compact built and sold only in Europe. Now, America gets its turn with the CTS Sport Wagon that Cadillac hopes will revitalize and grow the small market for station wagons here. In other words, it seeks to make wagons cool again. Does it? —Kevin A. Wilson

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon 3.6

The changes to this version of the CTS are from the B-pillars rearward. Weighing in at 4212 pounds, the Sport Wagon is 241 pounds portlier than the last CTS sedan we tested. Much of the weight increase can be attributed to the extended roofline, the structural buttressing, and the electric hatch, but some is likely due to the glass roof that came on our test car. So the wagon is heavier than the sedan—a clear disadvantage—but the extra mass is offset by improved weight distribution. Sport Wagons are less nose-heavy than CTS sedans, with 48.6 percent of the mass over the rear wheels versus the sedan’s 46.7 percent. With more weight resting on top of them, the rear tires don’t have any trouble putting the power to the ground.

However, our Sport Wagon’s 304-hp, 3.6-liter 24-valve direct-injection V-6—the base engine for 2010 is a 270-hp, 3.0-liter V-6—did seem somewhat overcome by the extra mass. Running from 0 to 60 in 7.0 seconds isn’t criminal, but the sedan does the deed in six flat. Cadillac folks say that roughly 0.3 second is sacrificed to the weight and another 0.3 is lost to the newly optional and heavier 19-inch wheels and larger brakes of the FE3 suspension. There’s also a revised torque converter that is supposed to increase smoothness and efficiency, and it, too, may have contributed to the Sport Wagon’s off-the-line sluggishness.

The CTS’s excellent handling, brakes, and steering remain untainted. The Sport Wagon’s great advantage over the sedan’s 14-cubic-foot trunk is its beautifully lined, 25 cubic feet of cargo space (53 with the rear seats folded). From the floor rails that provide attachment points for various tie-downs to the perfectly trimmed carpet, Cadillac seems to have created an exact replica of the cargo compartment of the Mercedes E-class wagon.

Unlike the utilitarian Benz wagon, the Cadillac’s crease-intensive sheetmetal gives it an air of sportiness. In fact, we think it’s more attractive than the sedan. And the base version starts at $40,655, or $3100 more than the base sedan. The only option our $54,635 Sport Wagon lacked was all-wheel drive. Even at that price, the Caddy wagon is still less expensive than comparably equipped competition from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes. Nevertheless, we still don’t expect the car-buying public to notice, so the Sport Wagon will remain a well-kept secret for fans of cars with D-pillars. 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon interior

Monday, August 17, 2009

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - side

Cadillac said the CTS Sport Wagon was designed to lead its assault on the European market, where BMW 5 Series Tourings and Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagons sell like luxury crossovers. Cadillac expected to sell just 4000 per year in the U.S., mostly to GM's own employees, like Bob Lutz, and the well-heeled enthusiast friends of automotive journalists.

Finances have since put the brakes on the European foray. No more diesel program. No more right-hand-drive CTS. The Sport Wagon has to sell here on its own merits, which are considerable.
Styling alone should make it a sales breakout. Cadillac has transformed perhaps the best-looking modern luxury sedan into the best-looking shooting brake. Its roof extends to a very fast D-pillar and power tailgate. The "finlike" taillamps are exaggerated into vertical light pipes that run nearly to the cargo roof rails. As with the CTS sedan, the Sport Wagon's tail ends in that signature Cadillac vee. It's not the most efficient use of station-wagon space. It's the sleek kind of styling that has defined the luxury wagons from BMW, Audi, and Alfa Romeo.

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.

Caddy LT snow 005.jpg


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.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Cadillac readies new flagship XTS, entry-level ATS

Cadillac Sixteen Concept.
It's a "you had to be there" moment if there ever was one. General Motors design chief Ed Welburn unveiled full-size styling bucks of two new Cadillac models after cameras were banned from the room, and anyone who wasn't there (or watching along via the media-only web broadcast) is just plain out of luck.

GM's premium division desperately needs the two new models, the first due to its entry-level placement and sport-oriented, image-boosting role, and the second because of high profitability and luxury-oriented, yet still image-boosting role. The first is a true BMW 3-Series fighter dubbed ATS, smaller than the CTS that already targets 3-Series, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class buyers, to name a few. While the CTS will likely grow in size to more directly go after the 5-Series, A6 and E-Class customers, the new model will allow Cadillac to expand into global markets that buy smaller cars more effectively.

Currently that market is being serviced by Cadillac's Euro-only BLS sedan, a front-drive derivative of Saab's 9-3. It's not a true Cadillac, but it serves a purpose for the time being. The new ATS will be rear- and all-wheel drive, however, so it appears that Cadillac has its priorities right. It will likely be based on the next-generation CTS architecture, which is already under development according to Cadillac general manager Brian Nesbitt. Power will certainly include an updated version of GM's 3.6L V6, while its new fuel-efficient 3.0L V6 may also be offered, as could possibly be an even more efficient four-cylinder.

Visually, think of a shrunken CTS with the same abbreviated trunk, although the headlights are more pronounced as they follow each fender further back towards the windscreen. Expect a sportier two-door coupe to surface some time after the sedan, with a convertible and even a wagon possible, if the CTS wagon proves to have legs.


Thursday, August 13, 2009

Cadillac flagship to share Buick LaCrosse platform

Cadillac's new flagship will share a platform with the new Buick LaCrosse but will be wider and more luxurious, industry and General Motors sources say.Buick LaCrosse Super

The Cadillac, code-named XTS, is expected in 2011 and will replace the front-drive DTS and rear-drive STS, the sources say. The X in the code-name suggests that all-wheel drive will be optional or standard.

The car is part of an emerging strategy for Cadillac that mirrors BMW's three-car lineup of small, medium, and large. The CTS would be the medium-size car, and a new small Cadillac also is expected in 2011, sources say.

GM has made little secret of the new flagship, showing a drawing of the concept to dealers at a meeting last month in Detroit. Details are emerging about its platform and production site.

The new flagship may be assembled at GM's Oshawa, Ontario, plant, the Canadian Auto Workers union says.

GM told the CAW last month that the Oshawa plant will be getting two new midsize sedans, says Chris Buckley, CAW Local 222 president.

While the specific models were not revealed to the CAW local, "there is a very real possibility that a Cadillac will be built in the city of Oshawa," Buckley says.
LaCrosse Interior

Oshawa will produce a hybrid, short-wheelbase sedan in the first quarter of 2011, and a long-wheelbase sedan will go into production in 2013, said Jennifer Wright, a GM Canada spokeswoman. She declined to reveal the brand of the new models.

buick_lacrosse_cx_2009_440x220

2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8T First Drive

This is about the 2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8 Turbo, not the 2010 Cadillac SRX 3.0 that we drove, oh, just last week? That was the new Caddy two-row crossover with a 3.0-liter V6. This is something different.

2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8T

Of course, we were too classy to explicitly say that the 3.0-liter V6 is gutless, bloodless or carries smaller-than-average huevos. Instead, we simply pointed out, "Not only does the 3.0-liter V6 have the lowest torque rating of any six-cylinder crossover in this class, those 223 pound-feet hit at a much higher rpm."

Now we've driven the 2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8T with its optional turbocharged 2.8-liter V6, an engine borrowed from the Saab Turbo X and the upcoming Saab 9-4X. And we can happily report that our one major reservation about the standard SRX has been pretty well addressed with a heaping helping of our old twisty-turny friend, torque.

Of Buttes and Bunny Hills
We call them torque curves, but we don't really want them to be very curvy. The shape we want is not a dome or a slope or anything else that curves. What we want is what the turbo 2.8-liter V6 in the 2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8T lays down, which is more like a rectangle. We want the torque output to rise quickly from zero to its maximum and then just stay there for as long as possible. We want the torque curve to look like one of those tabletop buttes or mesas you see in Monument Valley near the Four Corners. That's pretty much what the 2.8-liter turbo's torque delivery looks like, as its peak output of 295 lb-ft of torque extends from 2,000 rpm to as far as the eye can see (or to 5,000 rpm anyway).

By comparison, the 3.0-liter V6's torque delivery looks like a bunny hill, a ski slope that's low and gentle enough to have a rope tow instead of a proper chairlift. Its torque peak of 223 lb-ft doesn't even arrive until 5,100 rpm. Most buyers in the luxury crossover market that we know personally seem to be convinced that any engine speed above 3,000 rpm will result in immediate and catastrophic engine failure and/or the creation of black holes. So let's just say they might not be getting the full effect of the 3.0-liter V6's output in any case.

Comparisons
This turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 leads the class of midsize luxury utes in terms of ultimate torque and horsepower output. Its estimated output of 300 horsepower is 40 hp more than the BMW X3's 3.0-liter inline-6, 32 hp more than the Mercedes-Benz GLK's 3.5-liter V6, 30 hp more than the Audi Q5's 3.2-liter V6, 25 hp more than the Lexus RX 350's 3.5-liter V6 and 19 hp more than the Volvo XC60's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6. Not too shabby.

Cadillac reckons that the new turbo motor will chop a full second off the run of the 3.0-liter SRX to 60 mph. We have clocked the SRX 3.0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds (7.9 seconds with 1 foot of rollout as on a drag strip). So given the same testing regimen, the turbo should easily break under the 8-second mark and hit the low 15s in the quarter-mile. And that will make it competitive with the best in the class.

Mini-Mall Heat Races
More important than track numbers in this market is the way a vehicle feels while squirting around town on errand day or when it's prodded down an on-ramp on the way to the office. In these circumstances, the difference between the normally aspirated 3.0-liter and the turbo 2.8-liter with its single twin-scroll turbocharger is even more obvious. It's our pal torque talking again. The turbo motor seems to never be caught on its heels. It's ready to provide a squirt of thrust under almost all conditions.

This is mostly due to the aforementioned mesa of torque. But it's also partly due to the Aisin six-speed automatic that replaces the Hydra-matic six-speed of the SRX 3.0. This transmission came as a package deal with the turbo motor from the Saab powertrain, and it's nice. It feels a bit more eager to downshift than the GM-built gearbox. Flop the shifter to the left and you activate the Sport program for both the suspension and the gearbox. We don't see a whole lot to dissuade us from simply leaving it in the Sport gate, since you still get smooth, well-timed downshifts.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

First Drive: 2010 Cadillac SRX Turbo


On the far corners of GM's Milford proving grounds, you see lots of streaks broken. Rubber streaks, left behind by test Corvettes and Camaros running off in ways you don't want to imagine. And as he shuttles a new 2010 Cadillac SRX Turbo in the wake of greatness, our GM test driver explains his last black mark on the track--a braking loss at 147 mph.2010 Cadillac SRX

It ended without drama, but it made us all the more anxious to take the wheel of the latest SRX, a turbocharged version of the new crossover Cadillac puts in showrooms in October. While stock SRX crossovers get a direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6 with 265 horsepower, the 2010 SRX Turbo sidles up to the stop sign on the GM proving grounds with a full 300 horsepower, 221 pound-feet of torque, and a slightly smaller displacement of 2.8 liters. All said and done, and coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission, the stock 2010 SRX hits 60 mph from a standstill in about 8.5 seconds and consumes unleaded gas at a rate of 18/25 mpg. The turbo version? Cadillac estimates 0-60 mph times drop to the mid-7-second range with the new engine.

2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8T

What we notice first, around the tight turns that corkscrew into rural Michigan woods, is the engine's lack of a distinct turbo whistle or wastegate noise. Boosted engines customarily whistle while they work, but this turbo V-6 damps out the distinction from the non-turbo V-6. It's just faster--and with a much flatter torque curve, it's a steady pull forward that will feel familiar to those of you who've driven the VW/Audi turbocharged engines.

The 2010 SRX offers only six-speed automatics, but with the turbo version, there are some driver-selectable tweaks to be made. The CTS' paddle shifters are nowhere to be found, but the SRX Turbo automatic offers a Sport mode that holds gears longer and tightens steering and shift points, and an Eco mode that remaps the throttle and cues quicker upshifts to conserve fuel. In Eco mode, engineers report a 1-mpg increase in fuel economy, though since the EPA averages the Eco mode with steady-state driving, the Turbo's fuel economy ratings are still rated at 16/23 mpg. That's still competitive with the Audi Q5, Benz GLK and BMW X3, none of which comes close to the SRX Turbo's power output. The SRX Turbo also tows 3,500 pounds.

The drivetrain is the only difference from other normally-aspirated, all-wheel-drive SRXs. The Turbo version shares the Haldex all-wheel-drive system, "FE3" suspension settings and Continuous Damping Control (CDC) with the most expensive non-turbo SRXs. CDC is like the driver-selectable system in the Audi Q5; it's not perfect and gives the steering and ride some "digital" quality, but there's no doubting its smooth, composed ride and clean, responsive steering at speed.In fact, the 2010 SRX has some of the best steering and ride feel in this class, more like a sports sedan than a kludgy crossover like, oh, say, the Lexus RX350.

Our objections with any of the 2010 Cadillac SRX crossovers are few. If you don't care for its highly stylized shape and wide-ranging use of metallic plastic inside, you're out of luck--and you're in a minority. Pricing is appropriately rich, for better or worse. The SRX Turbo runs just under $50,000, essentially $3000 more than a well-optioned, non-turbo SRX. At least there are precious few boxes to tick on the order form; once you've selected the all-wheel-drive SRX, you opt for the turbo engine, then add on chrome wheels, heated seats and an entertainment system if you like. A $55,000 sticker price is within easy reach.

And still, the 2010 Cadillac SRX is among our favorites in this class. It's a glitzy good-looker, ranking with the more sophisticated Audi Q5 in this department. It feels better than the other Germans, and handles with more authority than the XC60.

2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8T

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V

2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V

V600 - 610 HP Upgrade:



Power:

* 610 hp @ 6,000 rpm
* 605 lb-ft torque @ 4,400 rpm

Performance:

* 0-60: 3.7 sec.
* 1/4 mile: 11.8 @ 122 mph
* Top Speed: 195 mph (6-speed)

Includes:

* K&N Air Filter Element
* Supercharger Pulley Upgrade & Belt
* Engine Management Software Upgrade
* Supercharger Pulley (14 psi) & Snout Upgrade

V650 - 650 HP Cadillac CTS-V Engine Upgrade:



Power:

* 650 hp @ 6,200 rpm
* 641 lb-ft torque @ 3,400 rpm

Includes:

* 4 inch Cold Air Induction System
* Supercharger Pulley & Snout Upgrade
* Engine Management Software Upgrade
* Long Tube 1 7/8 inch Stainless Steel Headers
* 3 inch Stainless Mid Pipes
* 3 inch Stainless X-Pipe
* High Flow Catalytic Converters
* Intercooler Heat Exchanger System Upgrade
* Hennessey Embroidered Head Rests
* Serial Numbered Dash Plaque
* Serial Numbered Plaque in Engine Compartment

V700 - 700 hp Engine Upgrade:



Power:

* 700 hp @ 6,300 rpm
* 701 lb-ft torque @ 3,400 rpm

Performance:

* 0-60 mph: 3.1 sec. *
* 1/4 Mile: 10.9 @ 129 mph *
* Top Speed: 211 mph (with 6-speed transmission)

*with optional 20 inch HRE wheel upgrade & 305/45-20 Nitto drag radial tires.

Includes:

* 4 inch Cold Air Induction System
* Supercharger Pulley & Snout Upgrade
* Engine Management Software Upgrade
* Long Tube 1 7/8 inch Stainless Steel Headers
* 3 inch Stainless Mid Pipes
* High Flow Catalytic Converters
* Intercooler Heat Exchanger System Upgrade
* V700 Camshaft Upgrade
* V700 High Flow Cylinder Heads
* Hennessey Embroidered Head Rests
* Serial Numbered Dash Plaque
* Serial Numbered Plaque in Engine Compartment



Vtt - V800 Twin Turbo Upgrade - 800 HP:

Power:

* 800 hp @ 6,200 rpm @ 15 psi
* 780 lb-ft torque @ 4,400 rpm

Includes:

* Custom Twin Turbo System
* Twin Ball Bearing Turbos
* External Wastegates
* Blow-Off Valves
* Fuel System Upgrade
* Upgraded Injectors
* Engine Management Software Upgrade
* Corsa Stainless Steel Catback Exhaust System
* 3 inch Stainless Mid Pipes
* 3 inch Stainless X-Pipe
* High Flow Cylinder Heads
* Camshaft Upgrade


2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V
2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V

2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V
2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V
2009 Hennessey Performance Cadillac CTS-V

Monday, August 3, 2009

Cadillac unveils a new vision for the future of luxury transportation

Cadillac unveils a new vision for the future of luxury transportation with the innovative Provoq fuel cell concept – a hydrogen fuel cell crossover vehicle that continues GM’s commitment to displace petroleum through advanced technology.

The Cadillac Provoq fuel cell concept is the latest example of GM’s groundbreaking E-Flex propulsion system, combining the new fifth-generation fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery to produce an electrically driven vehicle that uses no petroleum and has no emission other than water. The concept’s fifth-generation fuel cell technology is half the size of its predecessor, yet it has been developed to produce more power and performance.

Cadillac Provoq Concept.

"Cadillac is a natural fit for GM’s next step in developing the E-Flex platform,” says Jim Taylor, Cadillac general manager. "Cadillac, at its very essence, is about premium luxury, design and technology, so it’s fitting that Cadillac would be propelled by the most elegant solution. This signals Cadillac’s intent to lead the industry with alternative-fuel technology."

Cadillac SRX 2010 Crossover Back

Fuel-cell variant of the E-Flex system
Cadillac SRX 2010 Crossover Interior x-ray

The concept can drive 300 miles (483 km) on a single fill of hydrogen – with 280 miles (450 km) from hydrogen and 20 miles (32 km) on pure, battery electric energy.

A pair of 10,000 psi (700 bar) composite storage tanks beneath the rear cargo floor hold 13.2 pounds (6 kg) of hydrogen to feed the fuel cell stack, located under the hood. There, hydrogen mixes with oxygen to generate electricity – up to 88 kW continuous power. A lithium-ion battery pack can store up to a total of 9kWh of electrical energy and also provides a peak of 60 kW of power for additional performance.

The electricity generated by the fuel cell is distributed to a 70 kW co-axial drive system for the front wheels and individual, 40 kW wheel hub motors on the rear wheels, giving the Cadillac Provoq its all-wheel-drive traction and great driving dynamics. Its 0-60 mph (approximately 100 km/h) speed of 8.5 seconds is a more than 30-percent improvement over the previous-generation fuel cell system and with instantaneous torque to the wheels, it feels even faster. Provoq has a top speed of 100 mph (160 km/h).

Cadillac Provoq Concept

"This is a vision of what comes next – a fuel cell electric vehicle that delivers the driving characteristics Cadillac customers want and allowing them to do it without using a single drop of petroleum, while emitting only water vapor,” said Larry Burns, GM vice president for research and development. "This is proof that alternate fuels and advanced technologies create even greater opportunities to satisfy the luxury buyer.”

Cadillac Provoq Concept.

Key features

With sleek, signature Cadillac bodywork, the Provoq concept redefines luxury crossovers, offering uncompromising passenger and cargo space to match its performance and cruising range. Additional vehicle features include:

Cadillac Provoq Concept.

  • Solar panel integrated in the roof to help power onboard accessories, such as the interior lights, audio system and more
  • Brake-by-wire technology
  • Front grille louvers that close at highway speed to enhance aerodynamics, and open at low speed to provide maximum cooling to the fuel cell stack
Purposefully dynamic design

The Provoq has a sleek, athletic shape that builds on the second generation of Cadillac’s design renaissance, led by the 2008 CTS, with dynamic and purposeful features that support the hydrogen fuel cell powertrain and contribute to the vehicle’s overall efficiency.

"All the people- and cargo-carrying capability customers expect in crossovers and SUVs is available in the Provoq, along with the premium attributes expected in a Cadillac,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design.

Highlights include:

  • Active front grille, with grille louvers that open when the fuel cell stack requires cooling
  • Full underbody aerodynamic cover
  • Left- and right-hand charging ports incorporated in stylish front fender vents
  • Flush door handles that feature push-to-release operation
  • Wind tunnel-shaped outside mirrors with integral turn signals
  • Center high-mounted rear stop lamp incorporated into full-width, wraparound spoiler
  • Signature vertical taillamps with subtle fin design
  • Side glass mounted flush with pillars
  • Wheels with clear-covered space between the spokes, creating a sleeker profile while maintaining Cadillac’s signature bold wheel design
  • Low-drag roof rack
cadillac-crossover

"From the strong, shield grille and vertical headlamps to the crisp body lines, the Provoq is instantly recognizable as a contemporary Cadillac,” said Hoon Kim, exterior lead designer. "Like the new CTS, it is bold and expressive, but there is enhanced shape between the edges – it’s a new proportion for crossovers, with a fast, almost coupe-like rear.

2010 Cadillac SRX

"Everything about the vehicle reinforces the notion that great style and environmentally conscious transportation can go hand in hand,” said Kim. "We didn’t sacrifice proportion, stance or Cadillac’s iconic design cues; we used them to support the efficiency of the vehicle.

"They are the features customers expect,” he said. "The adaptability of the E-Flex architecture enabled the designers to create a great-looking vehicle, regardless of its alternative-fuel powertrain.”

Kim points to the fender-mounted charge ports as prime example. They allow overnight, plug-in charging that extends the driving range. The ports have a satin-chrome appearance that incorporates an amber light to indicate the system is charging and a green light to indicate when charging is completed.

"The ports are functional, but rather than hide them, they are design elements of the Provoq,” he said. "Sweeping body lines that culminate at the top and bottom edges of the ports suggest forward thrust, even when the vehicle is stationary.”

The vertical, neon-lit taillamps blend style with functionality, too, as their finned shape was designed to make the Provoq as aerodynamically efficient as possible.

Indeed, the Provoq has short overhangs and a sporty ride height that is complemented by large, 21-inch wheels.

The wheels are wrapped in custom Michelin tires incorporating Green-X technology. These low-rolling resistance tires feature a tread pattern that mimics the "H20” notation for water.

The tire designers and engineers at Michelin North America enthusiastically accepted GM’s challenge to create a custom low-rolling resistance tire to complement the energy efficiency and reduced environmental footprint of the Cadillac Provoq. During the past 15 years, the tire maker has developed four generations of Michelin green energy-saving tires, and the team’s no-compromises approach to the project helped reduce the Provoq’s overall fuel consumption without sacrificing road performance, grip and safety.

When used in conjunction with the other energy-efficient solutions featured on the Cadillac Provoq, the benefits of Michelin green energy-saving tires include:

  • A reduction in the consumer’s overall cost of ownership
  • An extended vehicle range through a more efficient use of on-board energy and its storage capacity
  • A reduction of vehicle impact on the environment through lower CO2 and particulate emissions.
Uncompromising interior

Like the exterior, the Provoq’s interior blends style with function. It seats five and incorporates the comfort, convenience and infotainment features Cadillac customers seek. Most importantly, the fuel cell powertrain does not intrude on passenger or cargo room.

The hydrogen fuel tanks are mounted beneath the cargo floor, with the storage batteries located at the center of the chassis. The fuel cell stack is located under the hood, giving the Provoq the interior layout of a conventional crossover – including a full cargo area and a 60/40-split folding rear seat.

"The interior is roomy, well-equipped and offers the space people want in a crossover,” said Matt Erdey, interior lead designer. "There are no compromises inside the Provoq to accommodate the fuel cell powertrain and fuel tanks – a factor that proves the technology and real-world feasibility are growing closer together.”

There may not be compromising reminders of the powertrain in the interior, but the Provoq carries the instantly identifiable hallmarks of a contemporary Cadillac interior, with an expressive, well-crafted design.

"It picks up the cues, refinement and attention to detail of the new CTS and takes them to the next level,” said Erdey. "A contrasting color scheme, extensive use of ambient lighting technology and elements such as cut-and-sewn, hand-wrapped leather with French seams are elements seen in current Cadillac models, but they are amplified in the Provoq. "

The interior has a contrasting, dark gray and light gray color scheme, with chrome and satin-chrome accents throughout. Ambient lighting extends across the instrument panel and into the door panels, as well as the foot wells, sills and under the seats.

A unique instrument cluster with large, reconfigurable LCD displays offers a multitude of vehicle information readouts, including fuel cell information and vehicle performance. Like the CTS, the Provoq has a prominent center stack that houses the audio and climate systems, as well as a navigation system that rises out of the top of the instrument panel. Also like the CTS, there is an integrated hard drive that stores navigation maps, thousands of songs and more.

Between the front bucket seats is a large center console with a fully enclosed storage compartment that is home to ports for USB-connected devices and other electronics. The console also has a cell phone holder with built-in Bluetooth and inductive charging. The compact shifting mechanism on the console uses shift-by-wire technology to engage the gears, resulting in more storage space within the console.

A variety of recycled and recyclable materials were used, as well. Highlights include:

  • The headliner is wrapped in a fully recyclable soy-based material
  • The carpet is made of recycled polyester and jute
  • Leather used to cover the seats and instrumental panel is free of harmful chemicals
  • Xorel material used on the door panels and instrument panel; treated to perform as a carbon-fiber-type material
  • Chrome trim made with less-harmful materials

The earth-friendly interior components blend seamlessly with the more conventional materials inside the Provoq, enhancing the vehicle’s integrated, customer-focused environment. The same goes for the cargo area, which features an auxiliary power outlet and a load floor that is level with the hatch opening.

"The integration of the features and technology is remarkable,” said Erdey. "If you didn’t know there was a hydrogen fuel cell stack under the hood, you’d never know it was anything but a roomy, functional crossover.”

Specifications
Vehicle type:four-door crossover
Wheelbase (in / mm):114.4 / 2906
Length (in / mm):180.3 / 4580
Width (in / mm):72.8 / 1850
Height (in / mm):67 / 1703
Track (in / mm):64.5 / 1639 (front and rear)
Powertrain:88 kW fuel cell w/ co-axial electric front drive; independent rear wheel motors
Suspension:four-wheel independent; MacPherson-strut (front), multi-link (rear)
Brakes:four-wheel disc; brake-by-wire; regenerative electric
Wheels:21-inch x 6.5-inch aluminum
Tires:205/60R21 Michelin Green X energy-saving

Saturday, August 1, 2009

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Front Angle Picture2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Front Angle Picture

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Front Side Picture2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Front Side Picture

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Side Picture2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Side Picture

Cadillac CTS 2010 Sport Wagon - Rear Angle PictureCadillac CTS 2010 Sport Wagon - Rear Angle Picture

Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon 2010 - Rear Side PictureCadillac CTS Sport Wagon 2010 - Rear Side Picture

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Interior Picture2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon - Interior Picture

Based on the hot-selling Cadillac CTS sport sedan, and a sister vehicle to the Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept, the Sport Wagon extends the design-driven renaissance of Cadillac. With the Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon’s 3.6L V-6, direct injection translates to 304 horsepower (227 kW)*, no loss of fuel efficiency and a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions. It also runs on less expensive regular unleaded gasoline. The Sport Wagon’s fuel economy is expected to be similar to the peak rating of the existing sport sedan’s 26 mpg highway rating. The standard 3.6L VVT engine that produces 263 horsepower (196 kW) and 253 lb.-ft. of torque (343 Nm) serves as the base engine in North America.

Just like the Cadillac CTS sport sedan, the V-6 engines are matched with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions, including an Aisin six-speed manual or an electronically controlled Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic. As is the case on the sport sedan, Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon includes AWD as an option.

The Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon moves to the worldwide auto show circuit this fall – and into Cadillac dealerships in spring 2009.

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon revealed LIVE




Cadillac trotted out the 2010 CTS Sport Wagon here in Monterey and after seeing it in person, we're fans. It's edgy, smooth, finned (the roof rails) and sleek all in the right proportions. And for the States-siders, the 263 hp V6 will allow the wagon to hold its own off the line. While there's plenty of room in the back (note: it is a sport wagon) the car itself is quite compact. A 6'4" colleague couldn't fit in the front seat without bumping his head on the panoramic roof. And for folks at about the 6'0" mark, things get really cozy in the back seat. But you didn't buy a wagon because you wanted a full-sized sedan, did you? If you're in the wagon market, check it out when it comes to a dealer near you.

We've assembled two high-res galleries below and two videos after the jump of Cadillac design and product directors discussing the design of the CTS Sport Wagon.

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