2010 Cadillac SRX4 - Road Test

As GM wobbled toward bankruptcy, the company’s boosters often cited Cadillac as proof that at least one division knew the secret for success. But stroll through a Cadillac showroom. The DTS isn’t even on your Uncle Marvin’s radar. The pretty but aging STS has been nudged onto the berm by at least five luxo-sports sedans, none from America. The angular XLR, a marketing spinoff from the Corvette shop, has been euthanized. There are a couple of embarrassingly immense Escalades. And then there’s the CTS—in truth, the lone vehicle that carries the division’s reputation on its back. And so it was with huge anticipation that we welcomed this all-new SRX, a crossover we’ve loved since the day it was introduced in, uh,wow, 2004.

In the Detroit Three’s universe, new models usually arrive bigger and heavier. Not this time, Cadillac promised. In fact, the SRX has been yanked from the $50K, V-8 luxo-ute niche, where it was nonetheless strong, finishing second to an Acura MDX in a C/D comparo in 2007. Problem is, the SRX now parachutes into the killer $40K-crossover class, where it faces, among other all-stars, Audi’s stunning Q5 3.2 Quattro (the winner of July’s “New Arrivals for Summer” comparo), not to mention the beyond-dominant sales king in the segment, the Lexus RX350, itself recently refurbished unto the zenith of plushness.

Keep Reading: 2010 Cadillac SRX4 - Road Test

Cadillac DTS to be replaced by XTS, which will be built in Canada alongside new Buick Regal

The days of Cadillac's big DTS sedan are numbered as the plant that builds it will soon be shut down and re-tooled. The Detroit Hamtramck assembly plant that builds the DTS and Buick Lucerne will switch over to building the Chevy Volt in 2010 and the current products are both long in the tooth.
The National Post is reporting that the new Cadillac flagship will be dubbed XTS and will be produced at the Oshawa assembly plant. It will be built alongside an updated Chevrolet Impala, the new Camaro and the Buick Regal. The DTS is a front-wheel drive car, but the XTS is expected to the share the Epsilon II platform with the Regal and the new Impala. As such, it will likely get all-wheel-drive at least as an option. For its part, the Regal will likely be a re-badged version of the Opel Insignia. The report goes on to say that Oshawa will produce a hybrid version of one of those offerings - a gas-electric Regal model is a reasonable bet.
Earlier reports had pegged the next Cadillac sedan as a model that would supplant both the DTS and the slow-selling STS, and although the NatPost article does not speak to this, it is reasonable to assume that the new XTS will result in the phase-out of both model lines. The new model line was reportedly put on hold back in August of last year, but it apparently has once again been given the go-ahead.
The XTS is scheduled to be launched in December 2011, with the new Impala coming in early 2013.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V offers supercar performance, everyday drivability

2009 Cadillac CTS-V

Despite recent products to the contrary, when much of America thinks "Cadillac," a lot of people still recall the land yachts of the '70s and '80s. Hoods and decks marginally shorter than your average aircraft carrier, and Sedan de Villes and Fleetwoods serving as hearses or transportation for those awaiting a ride in one. But something happened to Cadillac a few years back. After several failed attempts to compete with the Germans (Seville STS, Allante and Catera), General Motors began crafting a strategy to take on the luxury marques abroad. At the forefront of that movement is the Cadillac CTS and the pinnacle of their efforts is this, the CTS-V. To paraphrase and co-opt the grizzled Oldsmobile tag-line: "The 2009 CTS-V is not your grandfather's Cadillac." Not by a long shot.

2010 Cadillac SRX pricing starts at $34,155

As GM heads towards an inevitable bankruptcy by the end of the month, it announced today that Cadillac will see two important launches later this summer. Production of the new 2010 Cadillac SRX and the CTS Sport Wagon will start this summer.

Pricing for the 2010 Cadillac SRX will start at $34,155. The 2010 SRX will be offered with two engine choices including GM’s new 3.0L V6 direct-injection unit making 260-hp with a peak torque of 221 lb-ft. The range-topper will be powered by a 2.8L turbocharged V6 making 300-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Fuel-economy is estimated to come in the mid-20s on the highway.

The 2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon will be offered with a 263-hp 3.6L VVT or a 304-hp 3.6L V6. Highway fuel economy is estimated to reach 28 mpg. Pricing for the 2010 CTS Sport Wagon will be announced at a later date.

Press Release:

Cadillac Launches Two New Vehicles This Summer

* All-new SRX Crossover starts at $34,155
* CTS Sport Wagon strengthens CTS model lineup

DETROIT - Cadillac’s model lineup expands with two dramatically-designed new luxury vehicles that also bring new dimensions of versatility and efficiency to the marketplace. Cadillac announced today that the 2010 SRX Crossover, scheduled to begin production this summer, will be priced aggressively starting at $34,155.

Later this summer, the acclaimed CTS family will expand again with the arrival of the CTS Sport Wagon. Together with the all-new SRX, these two dynamic new Cadillac models are in sync with the changing priorities of today’s luxury consumers.

“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.”

The all-new SRX launches into the strong luxury crossover vehicle segment, a category that 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.”

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 the new SRX and CTS Sport Wagon will be presented in a special video webcast from one of Cadillac’s design studios. Visit www.cadillacstudiolive.com for an inside look at the highlights of both new models.

Cadillac Launches Two New Vehicles This Summer

Cadillac’s model lineup expands with two dramatically-designed new luxury vehicles that also bring new dimensions of versatility and efficiency to the marketplace. Cadillac announced today that the 2010 SRX Crossover, scheduled to begin production this summer, will be priced aggressively starting at $34,155. Later this summer, the acclaimed CTS family will expand again with the arrival [...]

Cadillac’s chief resigns his position, leaving on June 1

The head of General Motors’ Cadillac brand has resigned according to spokesman Klaus-Peter Martin.

McNabb joined General Motors just 13 months ago and will leave on June 1 to pursue other opportunities Martin told Automotive News. McNabb previously worked for Nissan. Stephen J. Hill will take his place as Cadillac’s chief.

GM faces a June 1 government-imposed deadline to restructure or face Chapter 11 bankruptcy like its rival Chrysler.

Shanghai’s V-Day - Cadillac CTS-Vs Put on Stunt Show

Celebrating the recent arrival of the Cadillac CTS-V in China, a commemorate event at the F1 circuit in Shanghai was held where stunt drivers put on one of the wildest shows around. In the show was, obviously, Cadillac CTS-V’s being driven by some very good drivers.

Shanghai V-Day Highlights include the following:

• 19,000 fans gathered at the F1 circuit in Shanghai this past Saturday, the hottest May 9 in more than a century there with temperatures around 30° C. 
• A team of professional stunt drivers from Hollywood performed an incredible show for the crowd. DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME!  These stunt drivers are professionals on a closed course, and they performed these incredible maneuvers (that no one else should ever attempt!) for entertainment purposes only.  There’s your requisite disclaimer. Enjoy the photos.
• John H wowed the crowd with the performance of the CTS-V, piloting it to the fastest lap ever on that circuit for a fully production-spec sedan.
• Kinda restores one’s faith in the excitement and passion of the automobile, eh?

GM hosts ‘V-Day’ in Shanghai with crazy stunts in a bunch of Cadillac CTS-Vs

Celebrating the launch of the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V in China, GM held a big event called V-Day in Shanghai where chief engineer John Heinricy once again set a production sedan lap record, this time on the F1 circuit in Shanghai.

Around 19,000 fans gathered at the F1 circuit for the launch of the CTS-V in China while a team of professional stunt drivers from Hollywood put on an incredible show to ‘wow’ the crowd.

You can check out all the photos from the event after the jump along with a video of the stunt driving.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V V-Day in Shanghai:

2010 Cadillac CTS Coupe with almost no camo!

A new round of spy photos show Cadillac’s forthcoming CTS Coupe undergoing some final testing. Less than two weeks ago, photographers spotted a prototype with less disguise than ever before. These latest images show a car with slightly more black tape on its rear end, but with production taillights rather than the placeholders seen on the last tester.
Codenamed GMX226, the stylish couple will debut at the LA show, and will be built alongside the CTS sedan at the Lansing Grand River Plant. Production will start in May of 2009. The coupe will feature a backup camera which is not currently found on the sedan.
Thankfully, it appears that the majority of the concept’s lines have been faithfully duplicated on this production model. Some feared that the concept’s radical fastback design might be watered down, revealing the Coupe’s sedan roots, but our profile view proves these fears as unfounded. It appears that the production version may have a slightly more pronounced rear deck, but if that’s so, it’s not enough to significantly alter the concept’s silhouette.
The CTS Coupe prototype further separates itself from its sedan donor thanks to the elimination of a conventional door handle, adopting instead the concept’s Corvette-style design which hides the door trigger behind the door’s aft cut-line. The concept and production similarities continue with the Coupe’s revised lower side sill, and the distinctively sculpted waistline, which begins at the A-pillar/fender vent, and narrows as it stretches rearward. The camouflage hides whether or not the line terminates into the concept’s razor-sharp point at the C-pillar, but it looks likely that that’s another design convergence between the show- and production cars. Earlier photos also confirmed that the concept’s bold central exhaust will also reach showrooms.
There are some visible differences between the Detroit Show Standout and the production model. Cost and feasibility studies have killed the concept’s glass-to-glass side windows, in favor of a visible B-pillar on the production model. The rest of the changes are found in front of the A-pillar. The concept coupe’s large, CTS-V-style hood bulge is gone on this prototype (although we’d love to see it return on the “V” coupe). And the show car’s reshaped front fenders — which sweep more voluptuously to a revised front bumper, tweaked front ground-effects, and more dynamic headlight and fog-light clusters — appear to have been replaced with stock items from the CTS sedan. It looks to us like the CTS Coupe and sedan will share identical front fenders and front fascia designs. From there back, however, the cars could scarcely be more different. The drama of the CTS Coupe concept is alive and well, and on its way to Cadillac showrooms.
Although the CTS Coupe will bow at November’s show, it remains unclear when GM will take the wraps off the CTS-V Coupe. GM has promised the “V” coupe will hit the market at the same time (May 2009) as the regular two-door.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V

Driving through the backroads of semi-upstate New York, you begin to think that Deliverance was not filmed in the forests of Georgia, but instead, right here in an area that is probably two hours outside of New York City. We are cruising along the two-lane highways, past the Orange County Choppers factory/showroom of Paul, Paul Jr., and Mikey fame. Past firetraps masquerading as strip joints, to Monticello Motor Club. The most common vehicle around happens to be the high-riding F-150 pick-up truck with Yosemite Sam mud flaps. It’s a great drive with challenging roads. And a warning sign that has a bra hanging over it.
We are in the new 2009 Cadillac CTS-V. Not your father’s Caddy, nor that of rich Uncle Buck either, it is the ballsiest piece of sheetmetal to wear the Cadillac crest. The General has rented the club—sort of like a country club for wealthy gearheads, to give auto journalists a chance to thrash away at the latest offerings from the Milford Proving Grounds in suburban Detroit.
The CTS-V is the version 2.0 follow-up to the CTS-V that was based on the previous generation CTS. This one features a whole new set of cool bits that elevate the “V” to the level of “corporate badass.”
Logical competitors and benchmarks include the BMW M5, Audi S6, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, and the like. It has been a constant game of one-upmanship for the past five or six years and that’s a game of which we really enjoy being a beneficiary.
Numerous. In addition to the LSA Supercharged V8, which we’ll get to in due course, the CTS-V now features Magnetic Ride Control, which Cadillac claims is the “world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology,” to using electro-magnets to control the shocks, which help to speed up the response time. Sensors constantly “read” the road, making constant adjustments of the suspension system to give more precise control of body motions.
Peel back a few more layers and you’ll find not so much a breakthrough, as a reason to build up the muscles in your right arm. A new six-speed manual transmission, this one by Tremec, is now available, along with a Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic with paddle shift buttons. And Brembos. And Recaros. And Michelins. And more. It reads like a Who’s Who of performance goodies.
Like a sharply creased sedan with a purpose. We love the profile of the new CTS and the V just carries it along and then some. Perhaps borrowing inspiration from Mercedes-Benz’s placement of their trademark star in the center of the grille on their high performance cars, Cadillac has chosen to place the Crest in the center of the mesh-covered front end. But it does look like it is bigger! A power-bulge on the hood gives added clearance for the Eaton blower underneath. Returning are the side gills on either side of the fender. New CTS-V badging on the driver and passenger doors let the residents of the gated communities know this is not the CTS that takes them to the hair salon or the local Saks Fifth Avenue. The ultra swept back C-pillar provides a nice counterpoint to the wedge-shaped side cladding which leads to a rear end with high-mount brake light that doubles as a rear spoiler.
A blending of performance and luxury, you could say that if there was a four-door version of the Corvette, this is what its interior should look like. With a choice of standard performance seats or available Recaro sport seats, with adjustable side-bolsters, everybody sits just fine.
Hand stitching on the instrument and door panels as well as the center console gives the appearance of a designer interior in a performance car. Almost a “what’s wrong with this picture” moment. But in reality, there’s nothing wrong with it. It’s a welcomed addition.
The pop up monitor from the original CTS introduced a year ago makes a reappearance as the heart of the controls in the new “V.” Our concerns from that time had us questioning the intelligence of mounting a monitor with electric motor that pops up and down during subsequent operations. Our concerns appear to be unfounded. Gauges are well laid out in the instrument panel binnacle, and redundant controls abound all over the steering wheel. As do the transmission shifting buttons located on the wheel’s backside. We much prefer paddle shift levers rather than the nondescript push buttons on the V’s wheel. Generally, we think the interior and especially the center-stack is well laid-out, although at times it verges on busy.
Like a charging rhino. The first thing you notice is the whine of the Eaton twin-screw, four-lobe rotor supercharger. Hearing it spool up is music to any enthusiast’s ears, until it kicks you back into the nicely bolstered sport seats, and then it sounds even better. With an intercooler perched above it and aluminum alloy heads to fight excess engine heat, it is an engine that has been tuned to provide plenty of low end grunt as well as maintaining horsepower at the high end of the RPM range, in an area that tends to bleed off the horsepower produced by the superchargers. It works.
Producing 556-horsepower and 551 lb-ft of torque, the 6.2-liter LSA engine is a de-tuned version of the powerplant poking through the hood of the new ZR1 Corvettte. It is also a heavily cladded piece of art. Observing a demonstration model of the engine, sans cladding, it is a look that doesn’t need to be covered up by some lame piece of plastic with Cadillac badges all over it. We understand that there are no user-serviceable parts under the cover, but we are still curious how Audi is able to build an engine as beautifully as they do in their RS4, and still manage to keep it uncovered, to be admired.
Zero-60 mph clicks off at 3.9-seconds, while the quarter mile is achieved in 12-seconds, flat, at 118 mph. Let’s repeat: Zero-60 mph clicks off at 3.9-seconds, while the quarter mile is achieved in 12-seconds, flat, at 118 mph. Mileage, by the way, has yet to be determined. But at this point, does it matter?
The six-speed Tremec made for smooth shifting throughout the 4.2-mile road course at Monticello. Running up the back straight, which used to be the main runway of the Monticello airport, the GM small block wanted to keep going and going until the kink on the track appeared over the ridge. Squeezing the Brembo six-pot calipers in front and the four-pots in the rear, clamped the slotted and vented rotors, which helped to settle the CTS-V before its next sweeping right-hander.
Switching over to the six-speed Hydra-Matic gearbox, incidentally the first time an automatic has been available on the CTS-V, showed a transmission that was able to perform as seamlessly as possible on surface streets, yet still be able to stretch its legs on the highway or the race track. Switching gates on the automatic put the shift lever in the sport mode, effectively remapping engine shift points for quicker shifts and faster acceleration. With all the power on tap, Cadillac beefed up the limited slip differential and prop shaft for extra durability during extreme loads. The 4,200-pound (4,300 with the automatic) “V” rides on 19-inch Michelin PS2 Z-rated tires (255/40 up front and 285/35 out back) specifically designed for the car.
Handling is improved over the last model by use of the Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) in conjunction with the CTS-V’s multi-link independent rear suspension. A fast-reacting technology, it relies on shocks controlled by electro-magnet, rather than mechanical valves. The result is a faster response time because sensors at all four wheels are reading the road every millisecond causing different damping rates at a constant pace. Controlling the CTS-V in either Touring or Sport mode, MRC was first seen on the Cadillac STS, it has been utilized on several high performance European sleds as well as the Corvette.
As it sits, don’t expect to see many CTS-Vs parked inside Century Village. Pick up one, though, and you can be assured that there won’t be many others on the road that will be able to keep up with it. After all, this is the same car that lapped a circuit of the Nordschleife portion of the Nürburgring in under eight minutes (7:59:32) making it the fastest documented time for a production sedan.
Expected to hit market in the high $60,000s, it’s a bargain that can transport five comfortably and still run on track day at your local racetrack.
Pricing has yet to be determined for the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V.

Obama's new presidential limo is built like a tank, looks like a Cadillac

When Barack Obama hops into his presidential limousine after his inauguration on January 20, it might be this brand new rolling fortress that's part car, part truck. General Motors might be about to financially tank, but it's still putting the finishing touches on this real-world tank that'll soon be shiny and bear the presidential seal.
Most of the specs of this car are top secret, but a few tantalizing details are floating around, such as the five-inch-thick windows that are about half as transparent as regular glass and can stop projectiles from assault rifles, rocket-propelled grenades and high explosives. It's also said to be built of a combination of blast-proof ceramics and exotic metals, and certainly won't have a convertible top or sunroof.
While GM's trying to make it look like a Cadillac DTS, it's based on the company's line of heavy-duty 2500 trucks. For a fast getaway, it must have a giant engine under the hood. Because the presidential motorcade typically uses up to six decoy vehicles, there must be a mini-fleet of these behemoths on their way to the White House before too long.

Cadillac NART Zagato 1970 on eBay

Even with no further information, the name Cadillac NART Zagato is liable to raise an eyebrow or three among those in the automotive know—to say nothing of their probable reactions to hearing that such a thing is currently on sale at eBay Motors.

Founding father of the North American Racing Team, Luigi Chinetti is said to be responsible for engineering this crossbred beast, which drew power from a mid-mounted, Eldorado-sourced 7.7-liter (472 cubic-inch) V-8, and was wrapped with a very continental body from the Italian Zagato. Caddy was also responsible for the basic chassis (also from an Eldo), as well as for the dashboard, steering column, brakes, and those unmistakable hubcaps.



Perhaps even more striking than the wild aluminum body work though, is the fantastical Batmobile-styled interior of the car, complete with a ludicrously curved rear bench seat.
Credit: What's Up

Cadillac Volt Based Concept Heading to Detroit?

According to sources it appears that cash-strapped GM will debut a new Cadillac which uses the powertrain from the Chevrolet Volt at the Detroit Auto Show.

Barack Obama Cadillac Car 2009

Barack Obama Cadillac Car 2009

2010 Cadillac SRX takes a swing at Lexus' RX

Cadillac invited a handful of local media to its Milford, MI proving grounds for an early "preview" drive of the second-generation SRX crossover. The first official media launch won't happen until late May, just ahead of the mid-summer on-sale date, but GM wanted to provide a sneak peak at the chassis and hardware underpinning the new SRX. Contrary to popular opinion, the SRX and the Saab 9-4X aren't built atop the Theta platform used for the Saturn Vue and Chevy Equinox. Both vehicles uses a mix of Theta pieces, bits from the Epsilon II platform and a host of new components to create a new premium crossover architecture.
Unfortunately, Michigan weather just didn't want to cooperate with the SRX. After an early event was cancelled due to unseasonably warm weather in February, GM decided to let us loose on a 50-mile local road loop to show off the SRX's new chassis control and vehicle dynamic systems. Read on to find out how it fared.

General Motors reportedly approves Cadillac Converj for production

At the Detroit Auto Show in January, General Motors surprised the crowd with a concept coupe called the Cadillac Converj. Built on the same Voltec platform as the Chevrolet Volt, the Converj was seen as a way for GM to leverage the pricey ER-EV drivetrain in a vehicle that could sell at a premium price, recovering some of the development costs. According to Motor Trend, the Converj has been given the green light for production in 2011, a year after the Volt launches. When we talked to GM's Bob Kruse at the Detroit show, he indicated a production Converj would likely use the same powertrain as the Volt, although it could have different calibrations to allow somewhat higher performance than the Chevrolet.
If the Converj does move forward, the proportions might have to change in order to use the same under-structure as the Volt. However, the larger stumbling block to building the Converj is money – or a lack thereof. Unless some kind of deal is struck between the Treasury and Energy Departments to allows GM to tap into ATVM loans, there won't be enough cash in GM's coffers to build the Converj.

1956 Cadillac Firemaker Custom by Pfaff Designs

(from Pfaff Design Press Release) This 1956 Cadillac Sedan de Ville spent its life on the American road, highlighted by long driving vacations to Mexico, Alaska and annual trips to Florida. With over 100,000 miles on the odometer, this icon of '50s luxury was parked in 1971 and was forgotten – until then-high school senior and now current owner Murray Pfaff found it languishing in storage in 1986. Neglected for 25 years and due to lose its place in a barn scheduled to be demolished to make way for a mall, the car caught young Pfaff's fancy. He asked his father for permission to buy it and rescue it from decay, but received a firm, “Over my dead body” in reply. Fortunately for the car and Murray, this Cadillac found safe haven until the purchase could finally be negotiated some 5 years later.
First up for the behemoth was custom bodywork under the guidance of Matt Shamey of Watertown, NY. This includes over 300 hood louvers, recessed hood ornament, shaved handles, trim, and emblems, custom skirts, frenched antennas, filled bumpers, and a Carson style roof. Then Brother Dave and a collection of friends again stepped in to help get the Caddy road worthy in just under a year motivated by the original 365 cubic-inch V-8. Another 5 years had passed before the transplant of a 1976 Cadillac drive train began in Naples, FL. In order to help fit the 500-c.i.d. power plant under the hood, the firewall was recessed using a Jackson M-5 wheelbarrow. The big inch Cadillac motor benefits from high performance internals a polished Edelbrock intake, Holley Street Avenger carburetor, and plumbing from Earl’s.
From Florida, Pfaff moved to Northern California. There, the car got a complete repaint that Murray had designed himself. The flame job was generated by computer and was one of his earliest design explorations – one that would later lead to the creation of Pfaff Designs. Now located in Royal Oak, MI, Murray subjected the car to its fourth and most detailed make-over. This included brand new chrome, all new glass, and a new interior and paint scheme to complete the traditional yet modern look. Charlie Vickerie sprayed the new Pfaff-designed graphics using Glasurit paint. Jeff Shea created art in motion by applying some tasty pin stripping. The overall effect is a long, low, and imposing land yacht exuding a style that is sweet and undeniable.
Open the vault like doors and you find a leather wrapped dash with a custom punched and flared purple insert and speedo cluster liberated from a 1960 Cadillac. A modified 1960 Cadillac steering wheel proudly sits atop an Ididit column. A center console features the bullet housing with integrated gauges from Classic Instruments. Pat Russell at P.J.’s Trim Shop in Hemlock, MI. stitched together the leather hides to match the designer’s vision while encompassing the MTX sound system. A whole host of good friends, including Tom Gardner, Steve Langdon, Cliff McKillop, and Ed Pashukewich spent many sleepless nights bringing this incredible '56 Caddy to life.
To help achieve the right stance, the car was dropped to the ground using Air Ride Technologies Shock Waves. Another distinctive feature is the two different styles of rims and rubber. One side features BF Goodrich wide whites with 15” Astro Supremes, while the other sports Goodyear F1’s around a custom designed 18” Billet Specialties wheel. The two looks are very polarizing while attracting compliments from two different crowds. The car rides and drives like a dream which is important to Pfaff since he has logged over 85,000 miles himself behind the wheel. To say he enjoys driving this car is an understatement.
At the rear of this tour de force lies the reason for the car’s name: Just take a look at the exhaust and you will see that Murray is serious about his flames. The two-stage fuel injection system shoots fire more than 20 feet rearward! Pfaff often leaves two scorched trails behind him as his calling card. Whatever you do, don’t tailgate this big, bad Cadillac, as there's a good chance you're gonna' get burned by the FireMaker.
© Source: seriouswheels

More GM Cuts: Cadillac STS-V and Pontiac G6 GXP both gone for 2010

Pluto, the Roman god of Hades, is currently on a tour of the General Motors product garage and he's taking a few cars with him from the land of the living. After sending the Impala SS and the Cobalt SS to the underworld, he has just added to his collection the Cadillac STS-V and Pontiac G6 GXP – neither car will live to see next year. Truth be told, these cancellations are coming straight from the automaker's 2010 Online Order / Reference Guide for dealers, and we're only finding out about them as people dig deeper and deeper into the document.
GM banishing the STS-V makes sense, since it was underpowered and overpriced compared to the CTS-V, and your typical STS owner probably wasn't looking to get to his doctor's appointment faster than the speed of light. The G6 GXP, meanwhile, is not only hideously ugly in both two- and four-door versions, but a 252-hp coupe costing $26,595 is not a great value proposition these days. Heck, that's $3,500 more than the new V6 Camaro! While we mourn their loss of life and horsepower, we doubt many will miss the cars themselves, and we wish them well on their appointments with the boatman at the river Styx.

More GM Cuts: Cadillac STS-V and Pontiac G6 GXP both gone for 2010

Pluto, the Roman god of Hades, is currently on a tour of the General Motors product garage and he’s taking a few cars with him from the land of the living. After sending the Impala SS and the Cobalt SS to the underworld, he has just added to his collection the Cadillac STS-V and Pontiac G6 GXP – neither car will live to see next year. Truth be told, these cancellations are coming straight from the automaker’s 2010 Online Order / Reference Guide for dealers, and we’re only finding out about them as people dig deeper and deeper into the document.

GM banishing the STS-V makes sense, since it was underpowered and overpriced compared to the CTS-V, and your typical STS owner probably wasn’t looking to get to his doctor’s appointment faster than the speed of light. The G6 GXP, meanwhile, is not only hideously ugly in both two- and four-door versions, but a 252-hp coupe costing $26,595 is not a great value proposition these days. Heck, that’s $3,500 more than the new V6 Camaro! While we mourn their loss of life and horsepower, we doubt many will miss the cars themselves, and we wish them well on their appointments with the boatman at the river Styx.

2010 Cadillac SRX: A Distinctive Alternative For Today’s Luxury Crossover Consumer

Cadillac unveiled the next-generation 2010 SRX Crossover today, featuring a completely new design and more-efficient, high-technology engine choices.

NAIAS 2010: The new Cadillac SRX

Cadillac unveiled the next-generation 2010 SRX Crossover today, featuring a completely new design and more-efficient, high-technology engine choices. The new SRX is a mid-size luxury crossover coming to the North American International Auto Show next week.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Test Drive

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid - World’s First Hybrid Large Luxury SUV

The new 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is the world’s first fuel-saving hybrid applied to a large luxury SUV, delivering a 50% fuel economy improvement in city driving. It is powered by GM’s innovative, fuel-saving two-mode hybrid system and offers the same dramatic design, interior luxury and full-size capability that has made the Escalade an icon.

Once behind the wheel and on the road this new model is terrific to drive. No other auto manufacturer can seat eight luxuriously while simultaneously carrying or trailering lots of cargo comfortably.

Escalade Hybrid is available in 2WD or 4WD configurations. It delivers up to 5,800lbs. of usable towing capacity on 2WD models, and 5,600lbs. on 4WD models. Nearly all of Escalade’s standard comfort and convenience features are included as standard equipment on the hybrid model and they include: 14-way power front seats with heated & cooled cushions and backrests, 2nd row 60/40 split bench, 3rd row seat that can easily be removed and stored, nuance leather seating surfaces, real dark wood trim pieces on the dashboard and doors, 10-speaker Bose Audio Surround Sound System with a 6-CD/DVD changer, 8in. touch-screen navigation system with traffic alert, and can display performance readouts of the two-mode hybrid system, rearview camera system, driver information center, XM Satellite radio with Nav Traffic Jam Alert, power tilt, leather/wood wrapped steering wheel with radio/cruise control buttons, rear audio/DVD player with 7in. color screen, Bluetooth for phone, remote vehicle starter, dual map lamps, 3-12 volt power plugs/1-115 volt power plug, power adjustable pedals, HID headlamps, power fold/heated/curb view & signals sideview mirrors, rain sensing wipers/washers, heated washer fluid system, universal home remote, power windows with front express up/down, power door locks, thick-cut pile carpeting with floor mats, self-dimming rearview mirror, 3-zone electronic climate controls, all-wheel traction control, stabiliTrak electronic stability control, magnetic ride control, automatic rear leveling control, rear locking differential and 22X9in. chromed aluminum wheels wrapped with Bridgestone 285/45R22in. performance all-season radial tires. Escalade Hybrid extends Cadillac’s leadership in the large, luxury SUV category, particularly in the area of technology.

The Escalade’s two-mode hybrid system allows it to return exceptional fuel economy in both city and highway (20mpg/highway, 21mpg/city), while delivering the capabilities of a true luxury SUV. In city driving, this advanced hybrid power system enable Escalade to launch and drive low speed on electricity alone. As additional power is demanded, the system blends output from the battery and gas engine smoothly and seamlessly.

GM’s patented two-mode hybrid system consists of an advanced electrically variable transmission (EVT) and 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS).

These systems work in concert with the standard 6.0 liter V8 Gen IV gasoline engine with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) technology.
AFM enables the V8 engine to seamlessly shut off half of its cylinders when less power is needed, such as driving during highway cruising. This new hybrid system not only enables the Escalade Hybrid to drive low speed on electricity alone, it also allows the 6.0 liter V8 engine to operate in its more economical four-cylinder mode for longer periods.

The key to Escalade’s two-mode hybrid system is that the electric power used to propel the vehicle is generated by the hybrid system itself. When the 4-wheel disc brakes are applied or the vehicle is coasting, the electric motors with the hybrid system create electricity that is stored in the 300-volt battery. This stored energy is used to move the vehicle and the regenerative braking cycle is renewed.

The two-mode hybrid system provides seamless, dependable power on demand in an efficient package. In fact, its electric motor is less than half the size of those in single-mode hybrid systems. This technology was developed and is still used in fleets of hybrid transit buses on the streets today in dozens of major North American cities. Scaled-down for use in full-size SUVs, the two-mode system delivers fuel savings where it is needed most-in large vehicle with high levels of capability. It is a core part of GM’s energy diversity efforts, which are centered on reducing dependence on petroleum, improving fuel economy, reducing emissions, and minimizing the automobile’s impact on the environment.

Providing power to the hybrid’s electrically variable transmission’s (EVT) two electric motors is a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride Energy Storage System (ESS). This battery pack is located under the second-row seat where it takes up virtually no additional space and does not interfere with second-or third-row entry or exit.

The primary function of the ESS is to provide power (300-volts) to the EVT and to store captured energy produced during regenerative braking. In addition to supplying power to the EVT, the ESS also provides power to the A/C compressor and the Accessory Power Module (APM), which converts the high-voltage supply to 42 volts for the electric power steering system, and 12 volts for the vehicle battery and other 12-volt electrical accessories.

Battery pack durability and reliability are maintained via optimized charge and discharge cycles, as well as a dedicated cooling system that draws air from the passenger compartment. As part of the vehicle’s emission control system, the ESS is warranted for eight years/100,000 miles.

The Escalade Hybrid features fully blended regenerative braking to capture energy that would otherwise be lost during vehicle deceleration. By using one or both of the EVT’s traction motors as a generator, braking energy is converted to electrical energy and stored in the ESS for future use to propel the vehicle. The regenerative brakes are used along with the standard hydraulic brakes to slow the vehicle and/or bring it to a stop.

Depending on the amount of braking force required, the hydraulic brakes may not even used, such as during mild deceleration when slowing to allow space for merging traffic near a highway on-ramp. Regenerative braking has the additional benefit of extending the life of the friction materials used in the hydraulic braking system, as well as improving performance in the form of short stopping distance. You can really feel the added braking power when you push the pedal hard.

Acoustic details specific to the Hybrid model ensures that it delivers the superior luxury that has been an Escalade hallmark since its inception. These include a new exhaust system and resonator specially tuned for the 6.0 liter LIVC engine’s Active Fuel Management operation. It ensures comfortable interior acoustics and a pleasant exhaust note during both V4 and V8 operation. An electrically driven, 300-volt A/C compressor reduces vibration and allows the HVAC system to cool the passenger compartment even when the gasoline engine is shut off. An electrically driven 42-volt variable-assist power steering system reduces parasitic losses common in belt-driven hydraulic systems. The Energy Storage System cooling system’s internal fan is tuned to be quiet at low vehicle speeds, when the fan could more easily be heard by the passengers.

The Escalade Hybrid’s 6.0 liter V8 engine is unique. It features Active Fuel Management and late intake valve closing (Atkinson-cycle combustion process) for reduced pumping losses and better overall fuel economy. It uses flat-top pistons, cylinder heads borrowed from GM’s 5.3 liter high-output V8 and a 10.8:1 compression ratio, producing 332hp at 5,100rpm and 367lb.ft. of torque at 4,100rpm. It runs on regular unleaded fuel. A unique 3.42 rear axle ratio is used with this powertrain combination to help deliver the outstanding acceleration that is a hallmark of the Escalade’s performance. A standard rear locking differential makes sure that power is put down on the pavement when you need it.

A key contributor to the Escalade Hybrid’s fuel economy is the gasoline engine’s Auto Stop mode. Once the vehicle reaches 0mph, the gasoline engine is automatically shut down. By leaving the engine off and allowing the vehicle to mover only under electric power (up to 30mph), such as during heavy stop-and-go traffic, fuel consumption and emissions are reduced to 0. However, when extra power is required, such as for wide-open throttle acceleration from a standing stop, the Vortec 6.0 liter V8 is seamlessly restarted so it can deliver the necessary power and torque. In this case, the engine is restarted effortlessly from the Auto Stop mode using the EVT’s powerful internal electric motors; there is no traditional starter motor.

The Escalade Hybrid retains the qualities that have made it the leading large luxury SUV on the market and a standard-bearer of Cadillac’s overall product renaissance. It is instantly identifiable as a Cadillac and incorporates styling cues from the landmark Sixteen concept vehicle including a detailed signature grille, front fender ports and layers of chrome accents.

The Escalade’s warm and inviting interior features a premium, dual-cockpit layout. It is available in two colors, Ebony and Cashmere. Standard features not mentioned above include a distinctive instrument panel, wood covered center console and center stack, gauges with blue needles and blue light inlays with continuously lit, white-LED backlighting.

The Escalade Hybrid also comes standard with all of the safety systems found in the gasoline powered model and includes dual front airbags, head curtain side airbags for all seating rows, front seatbelt pretentioners, tire pressure monitoring system, theft deterrent system, LATCH child seat anchors, side blind zone alert, remote keyless entry, front and rear crush zones and steel beams in each door.

When you own and drive this new model from Cadillac, there is nothing lost in the driving or comfort experience, you’ll be just gaining a better feeling of higher fuel economy and less emissions from the engine. The Escalade Hybrid is on the cutting edge of automotive high-technology.

COPYRIGHT:2008:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

Price: MSRP $71,915
Type: Large SUV
Where Built: United States
EPA Class: Sport Utility Vehicles

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 202.5 in.
Width: 79 in.
Height: 75.9 in.
Wheel Base: 116 in.
Ground Clearance: 9 in.
Curb Weight: 5932 lbs.
Gross Weight: 7300 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 41.1 in.
Front Hip Room: 64.4 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 65.3 in.
Rear Head Room: 39.2 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 65.2 in.
Rear Hip Room: 60.8 in.
Front Leg Room: 41.3 in.
Rear Leg Room: 39 in.
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 109 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 8

Performance Data

Base Number of Cylinders: 8
Base Engine Size: 6 liters
Base Engine Type: V8
Horsepower: 332 hp
Max Horsepower: 5100 rpm
Torque: 367 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4100 rpm
Maximum Payload: 1369 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity: 5800 lbs.
Drive Type: RWD
Turning Circle: 39 ft.

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 20 mpg / 21 mpg / mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 520 mi. / 546 mi. / mi.

Cadillac Converj

Here's a sexier approach to the Chevrolet Volt. Cadillac's Converj concept takes the electric car with a gas back powertrain (now called Voltec) from the Chevy and wraps it in a sleek body that reminds of a larger version of the CTS coupe. The Converj is a strict four-seater. While this is used to give this car a sportier image, this is also necessary because a big center section is taken up by the "T" shaped battery used to power the car. The battery pack contains more than 220 (...)

NAIAS 2009: Cadillac Converj Concept

General Motors unveiled a further glimpse at the potential of electric propulsion today, this time in the form of luxury transportation, with the Cadillac Converj Concept. The Cadillac Converj was developed as a well-appointed grand touring coupe with a bold design and a host of interactive technology.

Converj: The “Cadillac” Of Electric Vehicles

General Motors unveiled a further glimpse at the potential of electric propulsion today, this time in the form of luxury transportation, with the Cadillac Converj Concept. The Cadillac Converj was developed as a well-appointed grand touring coupe with a bold design and a host of interactive technology. The four-passenger Converj concept is intended to show how [...]

Cadillac Converj, Sleek But Damn Powerful

Electric vehicles evolved. They’re now looking great and packed with muscles. Same goes with the new Cadillac Converj that has been unveiled at this year’s Detroit Auto Show. Though still a concept, the two doors coupe  uses Voltec technology (the former E-flex) with 16-kWh T-shaped lithium-ion batteries that offers a 40-mile range and only takes 3 hours to charge on a 240V and 8 hours on a 120V power source. But the Converj not only packs the electric engine, but also a four-cylinder gasoline engine-generator the recharges the batteries on the go. And last thing is about power. Would you expect 120 kW and a 273 lb-ft torque for such a car? It’s expected to hit in 2012 …

Barack Obama's Cadillac presidential limo revealed

With president-elect Barack Obama soon to be sworn in as the nation’s leader, a new presidential limousine was in call for and once again General Motors was assigned the task of building it. Nicknamed ‘The Beast’, the limo is based on a number of GM platforms and shares components with several different vehicles. “Cadillac is honored to again provide a new Presidential Limousine,” said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. “This is a great American tradition that we’re delighted to renew with an all-new car featuring the best of Cadillac’s dramatic design and technology.” Its exterior is styled around the Cadillac STS and DTS but underneath the sheet-metal the vehicle is built on a medium-duty truck chassis.
Barack Obama's Presidential Limousine by Cadillac

Cadillac Presidential Limousine

Cadillac has a very long history in delivering presidential limousine. It all started back in 1938 with the "Queen Mary" and "Queen Elizabeth" Cadillac Convertible. And in 2009 the company revealed the new presidential limousine for the president Barack Obama. Inside and out, the Cadillac Presidential Limousine includes many of the brand's signature design elements. Assertive, modern and elegant, the front of the car includes the intricate, dual-textured grille made famous by Cadillac's (...)

Limited cash to keep GM from green-lighting Cadillac Converj?

Click image above for a gallery of Cadillac Converj live shots

General Motors' increasingly empty coffers could consign the Cadillac Converj show car to 'concept only' status. The Detroit Auto Show coupe has been the subject of production rumors since before it rolled onto the stage in Cobo earlier last week, but now Automotive News is reporting that GM may not have enough money to make Converj a reality.
AN quotes GM vice chairman Bob Lutz as saying that the Converj is far from a done deal:

"Ready to go? Well, first we have to prove to ourselves that we have the money... and then that it's a high enough priority to displace something else, and that we can actually make money on the vehicle, and that there is potential customer interest and so forth. We haven't done any of that work yet."

Our take? The angularly gorgeous Cadillac was designed around the same extended-range Voltec architecture as Chevrolet's forthcoming Volt, itself a spectacularly expensive research and development effort. GM is clearly committed to making the Volt a production reality, and if it ever has hopes of making money on its plug-in hybrid technology, a higher-priced, higher-margin product like from an upper-crust brand like Cadillac would seem like one of the best ways to defray R&D costs. In short, GM may still have to conduct due diligence on the Converj's business case, but if there's any money at all left in the company's bank accounts, we still think the future for the showstopper is a bright one. Given the 2011 date attached to the Volt, we would expect the Caddy to roll into showrooms for 2012.
Let's just hope it arrives in showrooms wearing a new name.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj

New 2009 Cadillac Presidential Limo - Truly Presidential

Today history will be made. Part of this history in the Automotive world will be in the vehicle that transports Barack Obama, our 44th President of the United States of America.

Cadillac revealed some information and few images of the new 2009 Cadillac Presidential Limo. With each new President, including the 44th President, Barack Obama, they get to inherit new and improved “things” and that includes an all new Presidential Limousine. With today’s technology you can be assured that the new 2009 model of the Presidential Limo is the most secure and technologically advanced Presidential Limo ever. It is obvious from the few images provided that the windows are reinforced bullet proof composite type glass coupled with all types of body armor and communication electronics.

The fine details of the new Cadillac Presidential Limo will probably never be revealed to the public for security reasons. But in the mean time we can only imagine what goodies this new mammoth of a vehicle is equipped with. We have included the press release from Cadillac that rolls out some history behind the Presidential Limo which has been an exclusive Cadillac vehicle since 1953.

PRESS RELEASE

An American Tradition Continues: New Presidential Era Begins With a New Cadillac Presidential Limousine

President Obama to Christen New Car at Jan. 20 Inaugural Parade

WASHINGTON – As Americans celebrate the inauguration of a new president of the United States next week, another new Cadillac will grace Pennsylvania Avenue to lead the proceedings. President Barack Obama will ride in an all-new Cadillac Presidential Limousine, continuing a long tradition of Cadillac limousines that have served many U.S. presidents.

“Cadillac is honored to again provide a new Presidential Limousine,” said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. “This is a great American tradition that we’re delighted to renew with an all-new car featuring the best of Cadillac’s dramatic design and technology.”

The image of an American president greeting crowds from a Cadillac limousine dates to President Woodrow Wilson and the early days of the automobile, and continues into a historic new era. The latest Cadillac Presidential Limousine is a completely new design, succeeding the DTS Presidential Limousine that debuted in 2004. The new car incorporates many of the dramatic design and technology features of new and highly acclaimed Cadillac vehicles in a purpose-built format tailored to specific and exacting specifications befitting presidential transport.

Inside and out, the Cadillac Presidential Limousine includes many of the brand’s signature design elements. Assertive, modern and elegant, the front of the car includes the intricate, dual-textured grille made famous by Cadillac’s most popular current models, the CTS sport sedan and Escalade. Vertical design elements, such as the car’s front and rear lighting, mirror those used on production models.

For largely functional reasons, such as optimal outward visibility, the car is slightly more upright than its predecessor. However, this new Cadillac Presidential Limousine occupies roughly the same overall footprint on the road as the previous model, with a similar size and proportion.

The side and rear profiles of the new Presidential Limousine are classic, elegant forms, evocative of Cadillac’s STS and DTS luxury sedans. Inside the cabin, the car includes the finest examples of Cadillac’s recent renaissance in design, technology and craftsmanship. The cabin blends modern design and technology with old-world craftsmanship. Major aspects of the cabin are cut and sewn by hand, the same process used in popular Cadillac models such as the CTS sport sedan.

Naturally, many purpose-built aspects of the car are specially designed and prepared for presidential use. The rear passenger area includes an extensive executive compartment with ample seating space, outward visibility and useful mobile office features.

The car was designed, developed and tested by specialists who adhered to an extensive set of specifications. It was subjected to an extreme testing regimen to ensure performance that achieves precise functional requirements. In doing so, security provisions were undertaken at all times during development to ensure the car’s functional capabilities are preserved and confidential.

An embroidered presidential seal is positioned in the center of the rear seat back panel, as well as on each rear door trim panel. Presidential seals are also affixed to the exterior rear doors. The U.S. flag is placed on the right front fender, and the presidential standard is located on the left front fender when the president travels in the vehicle. High-tech LED spotlights illuminate the flags at night.

History – Cadillac and the U.S. Presidency
Cadillac has built limousines and special vehicles for U.S. presidents, diplomats, ambassadors and foreign dignitaries since the early 20th century, an iconic aspect of the brand that continues today.

Cadillac’s central role began during World War I, when many Cadillac engines and cars were transferred to military and government service because of their superior durability and power. One of the first chief executives to use a Cadillac was President Wilson, who rode through the streets of Boston during a World War I victory parade in 1919. A lavish 1928 Cadillac town car was used in the Calvin Coolidge administration.

In 1938, two Cadillac convertibles, dubbed the “Queen Mary” and “Queen Elizabeth,” were delivered to the U.S. government. Named after the great ocean liners of the time, the vehicles were 21.5 feet long, weighed 7,660 pounds and were equipped with a full ammunition arsenal, two-way radios and heavy-duty generators. Durable and reliable, the two “Queens” served Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman and Dwight D. Eisenhower.

President Eisenhower, known as a car buff, rode in one of the first Cadillac Eldorado models ever produced during his 1953 inaugural parade. The Eldorado represented a high point in automobile design history, as it had the first wraparound windshield, a feature quickly adopted on other new production models.

In 1956, the Queen Mary II and Queen Elizabeth II convertibles replaced the original series. The vehicles were slightly smaller, but like their predecessors, were fully armored and featured state-of-the art communications. Moreover, the vehicles were fitted with narrow rims inside the tire in case the tires were shot out. The Queen Mary II and Queen Elizabeth II served not only President Eisenhower, but also Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. Both vehicles were retired in 1968.

The Ronald W. Reagan administration was delivered a 1983 Cadillac Fleetwood limousine and a Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham – Presidential Series was delivered to the William J. Clinton administration in 1993. Unlike previous models that typically were Cadillac cars adapted and modified by independent limousine companies, the 1993 Presidential Brougham was designed, developed and manufactured totally within General Motors and Cadillac. This included an extensive set of security measures to maintain confidentiality, a process that continues today.

Currently, the 1983 Cadillac Fleetwood limousine resides at the Ronald W. Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, Calif., while the 1993 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham is at the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock, Ark.

Cadillac has produced two presidential limousines this decade that remain in service. The first was a Deville Presidential model delivered to President George W. Bush in 2001. In 2004, President Bush debuted a new DTS Presidential model. It was the first application of a new design that launched later that year for the production DTS full-size sedan.

Official photos of Barack Obama's Cadillac

The first images of Barack Obama?s Cadillac Presidential Limousine have been released ? and it?s an imposing machine.

As the President of the USA and the world?s most powerful man, Obama will always be a high risk figure so the new Caddy needs to be of the highest security.
As a result, Cadillac won?t detail the car?s full specification but expect the car to be completely armoured with bullet-proof windows and bodywork able to repel machine guns and even rocket launchers.