Cadillac prepping 3-series rival for Europe

GM’s efforts to boost the image of Cadillac in Europe has been thwarted by the poor performance of the FWD only BLS, especially up against segment leaders like the RWD BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. That’s why for its replacement Cadillac may switch to GM’s new RWD Alpha architecture.

CEO Rick Wagoner is keen to improve Cadillac’s image in Europe and the key to its success will be small models. Wagoner explained that Cadillac “will need smaller vehicles if it’s serious about markets outside of the U.S. and Middle East.”
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BMW995 - 10/29/2007 10:28:17 AM

+2 Boost

Great move, Cadillac!
But please don't make it weigh more than 3500 lbs. The CTS is already up to 4000 lbs; way to much for a V6 sports sedan.
As an auto enthusiast, it's sad to see the on-going weight inflation take its toll on fine cars more and more every year.
I had a 1400 lb Lotus Elan years ago, and I don't mean we should go back to that period, but weight kills the handling unless you have the tractor-sized sport tires they're selling these days.
Enough of my rant!

EnnNorak - 10/29/2007 10:54:12 AM

0 Boost

Weight is good as long as it is supported by more power. A heavy body will not only take longer to rust out but will also reduce the unsprung to sprung weight ratio thereby improving the ride. As far as I am concerned, the 2008 CTS already offers great competition for both the 3 and 5 series of BMW cars.

I don't mind if the sprung weight gets reduced for reasons of fuel economy and emissions as long as rust-free materials are used e.g. aluminum and carbon fibre. However, we must then also reduce the unsprung weight by going to magnesium instead of aluminum wheels and by using titanium for the heavier suspension members where strength is required.

AgentOrange - 10/29/2007 10:42:35 AM

+1 Boost

GM - Build the RWD baby Caddy and sell it here in N/A!!!!!