Cadillac is getting two new models. This summer, the SRX crossover is updated and the CTS wagon is introduced.
A major part of GM's move to restructure the company involves shoring up several of its top brands. Chevrolet,
GMC, Buick and Cadillac are expected to be the main vehicle lines for the automaker going forward, offering the right mix of passenger and commercial vehicles to help the automaker return to profitability.
Giving Cadillac Two Shots In The Arm
Cadillac sells the fewest number of vehicles of the four brands, but it is arguably one make that can help bolster GM's image significantly. As the luxury car line for General Motors, Cadillac does battle with Lexus, BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Infiniti and other makes, offering American car buyers home grown luxury at a competitive price. To that end, GM is introducing two new models this summer for Cadillac – the next generation SRX crossover and the CTS wagon.
“In a tough market the new SRX and CTS Sport Wagon are the right products at the right time, says Steve Shannon,” executive director of marketing for Cadillac. “They offer new dimensions of versatility and fuel efficiency, along with Cadillac’s signature design and technical features.”
What The SRX Brings To The Mix
The next generation SRX is being launched into the strong luxury crossover vehicle segment, a category that GM says now accounts for nearly one-fourth of all luxury vehicles sold in the U.S. market. The SRX features new downsized and fuel efficient engines in a completely redesigned vehicle that delivers a dynamic alternative in terms of visual appeal and driving character.
“We believe the Cadillac SRX offers emotional appeal to a segment previously devoid of much of that,” says Shannon. “At the same time, it also has very practical new features such as advanced All-Wheel-Drive, and an efficient standard 3.0-liter Direct Injection V6 engine. And with an entry price of $34,155 the new SRX presents an attractive offer to consumers, while taking on the traditional segment leader aggressively.”
How The CTS Wagon Changes Things
The CTS line has done quite well for Cadillac, providing a well balanced and nicely designed midsize sedan for the line. Since its introduction in 2003, the CTS has been redesigned and includes a high performance model in addition to the standard sedan. GM has also introduced a CTS coupe concept, a vehicle that may help to round out the CTS line. In the meantime, the CTS wagon does an admirable job expanding the CTS franchise.
Regarding the CTS wagon GM says, “The new CTS Sport Wagon offers the same design and technical features of Cadillac’s centerpiece model, the CTS sport sedan – but in a wagon body style that effectively doubles the car’s cargo space. The new Sport Wagon includes the same 3.0-liter Direct Injection engine that serves as the standard engine in the new SRX. In the Sport Wagon, highway fuel economy is estimated to reach 28 mpg.”
Both vehicles come at a time when Cadillac is needing an important boost to ensure fans of this luxury car brand that they'll be around for many years providing the cars customers want. By the looks of things, the SRX and CTS wagon appear to meet that important challenge.
