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Friday, December 30, 2011
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Cadillac Enhances 2012 Escalade Security Features
Just underneath the surface of the 2012 Cadillac Escalade are new security enhancements developed to combat thieves who have pushed and towed the segment-leading luxury SUV to the top of annual most-stolen vehicle lists.
The Escalade is already well-protected against typical drive-away grand theft auto through existing security features and standard OnStar security technology.
“The goal is to make the Escalade a very difficult target for thieves without any added inconvenience for customers,” said Bill Biondo, General Motors’ global leader for vehicle theft prevention. “The new systems work in the background and few people realize they are there, but they are strong added protections.”
The 2012 security enhancements:
- PASS Key 3+, a sophisticated encryption system for the key, key cylinder and ignition system (Deters: Drive-away thefts)
- A more-robust steering column-lock system that makes it nearly impossible to maneuver the Escalade onto a flatbed. (Deters: “push-away” thefts)
- An available inclination sensor that sets off an alarm when the system senses an unwarranted change of the angle of the vehicle, such as would occur with towing, flat-bedding or lifting the vehicle. (Deters: towing, push-away, and wheel thefts)
- An available shock sensor intended to reduce content theft and push-away theft by sounding the alarm when the vehicle is “shocked,” such as by breaking window glass. (Deters: Property theft)
- An available new wheel lock system to help prevent the theft of Escalade’s wheels and tires.
OnStar provides standard additional security with a remote ignition lock that can prevent the vehicle from starting if a break-in is detected. If a vehicle is stolen, OnStar can also provide vehicle location and remotely slow the vehicle down to assist law enforcement in vehicle recovery.
“Combined, these technologies comprise one of the most-extensive sets of theft-deterrent measures available for this type of vehicle and meet or exceed security specifications among global vehicle security analysts,” Biondo said.
The new inclination sensors will make it more difficult to push or tow an Escalade undetected. Undetected thefts and break-ins will also be more difficult with the added shock sensors and locking devices.
“These types of innovative theft prevention technologies are a significant step in helping to reduce vehicle thefts,” said Joe Wehrle, president and CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
Cadillac and Biondo continually work with U.S. law enforcement agencies to help educate police agencies on the various GM theft prevention systems and to learn the latest tactics used by auto thieves.
“We listen and analyze real-world security information from law enforcement so we can continue to develop effective theft deterrent solutions for our customers,” said Biondo.
Protecting Yourself Against Grand Theft Auto
Security technologies are an important part of the chess game between law enforcement and car thieves, but drivers are the primary defense against break-ins and thefts. To better keep you and your vehicle secure:
- Do not leave valuables unattended in unlocked cars, or in plain sight
- Park vehicles in well-lit areas or inside locked garages
- Don’t leave cars running with the keys in the ignition.
- Do not defeat the ignition/key cylinder immobilizers with aftermarket remote- start systems
- Always lock your vehicle with the key fob, which also sets the alarm system
- Use wheel locks with premium wheels
- Do not leave driver’s license, registration or insurance certificate in your car
- Purchase a vehicle with OnStar or the aftermarket OnStar FMV mirror, which will enable your vehicle to be tracked if stolen.
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.
Courtesy of Cadillac Media
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Cadillac ATS Travels to Nürburgring’s North Loop
DETROIT – The Cadillac ATS engineering team traveled to the world famous Nürburgring in Germany to give the cars an opportunity to perform in a strenuous, yet predictable environment. There, on the Nordschleife, or “North Loop,” the next chapter in the Cadillac ATS video series continues.
At this world-class road course, the team can fine-tune the ATS calibrations for the new 270 horsepower 2.0L turbo four-cylinder and 3.6L V-6 engines, along with the second- generation Cadillac Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
“No other facility in the world is like this. You can accomplish more here in one lap around the ring than you can on dozens of tracks in the U.S.,” said Dave Mikels, energy and powertrain integration engineer. Mikels and his colleagues on the ATS team are Nürburgring-certified performance test drivers.
“There are places where you’re airborne, and then there are valleys where you’re in full compression. There are off-camber, on-camber turns. There’s no other place in the world where you can test for all of that, except here.”
Cadillac monitors every aspect of the cars and can transmit that data back to calibration teams back in Michigan, who can then upload new algorithms to calibrate shock stiffness and engine dynamics to continually shave seconds off of lap times.
Additional details on the ATS will be announced at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The ATS, which will be revealed on Jan. 8, will be built at the Lansing (Mich.) Grand River plant alongside the Cadillac CTS Sedan, Coupe and Sport Wagon and V-Series performance cars.
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.
Courtesy of GM Media
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Friday, December 23, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
New Touring Package Models Enrich Cadillac CTS Lineup
DETROIT – Cadillac is offering some of the performance elements of its V-series product line on standard 2012 CTS models through the new Touring Package Sedan, Coupe and Wagon starting at $2,065.
The new CTS Touring Packages include such luxury features as Recaro seats, microfiber suede inserts on the seats and steering wheel, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, a performance-tuned suspension, a V-series aerodynamic spoiler and performance wheel packages.
“One of the best aspects of high-performance machines like the V-Series is that they bring new elements into the brand that enrich the rest of the breed,” said Cadillac Vice President of Marketing Don Butler. “The new Touring Packages give CTS buyers access to some desirable V-Series elements, in a more-approachable format.”
CTS Sedan and Sport Wagon come with either a 3.0L or optional 3.6L engine, both Direct Injection V-6 units, while CTS Coupe comes standard with the 3.6L engine. Each engine now will have its own Touring Package available:
The 3.0L V-6 touring package option retails at $2,065 and includes 18-inch pearl nickel finish wheels; dual exhaust; dark finish grille; HID headlamps and fog lamps; V-Series aerodynamic center high mounted stop lamp (except Sport Wagon); suede seat inserts, steering wheel and shifter; midnight Sapele wood trim and metal pedals.
The 3.6L V-6 Touring Package option retails at $2,810 and features Recaro performance seating, suede-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, midnight Sapele wood trim and metal pedals. The 3.6L Touring Package also gets a dark finish grille, V-Series aerodynamic center high mounted stop lamp (except Sport Wagon) and the 19-inch polished wheels with either summer tire performance package or all season tire package.
With 318 horsepower from the 3.6L direct injection V-6 engine, the CTS accelerates from 0-60 in 6.3 seconds, and comes with optional all-wheel-drive and FE3 performance suspension designed for agile cornering and braking. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the electronically controlled 6-speed automatic transmission are also included in the FE3 performance package.
Other new CTS features for 2012 include standard Bluetooth connectivity, optional RainSense Wipers and Side Blind Zone Alert (Coupe) along with new colors: Opulent Blue Metallic; Black Diamond Tri-Coat and Mocha Steel Metallic.
Suggested retail prices including destination charges for the 2012 models start at $36,790 for the CTS Sedan, $39,590 for the CTS Coupe and $39,890 for the CTS Sport Wagon.
Courtesy of Cadillac Media
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
2012 Cadillac SRX, CTS Models Get Top Safety Ratings
The 2012 Cadillac SRX crossover and CTS sport sedan and wagon models received 5-Star Overall Vehicle Scores for safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The Cadillac additions bring to nine the number of General Motors 2012 models with 5-star overall vehicle scores for safety. NHTSA has announced a total of 21 five-star overall vehicle scores for safety for 2012 models.
The Cadillac models were tested under NHTSA’s revised New Car Assessment Program implemented for the 2011 model year. The overall rating is based on frontal and side crash tests in addition to rollover resistance testing. Under the new system, the four test conditions are combined mathematically into an “Overall Vehicle Score.”
Under this methodology, Cadillac’s SRX and CTS sport sedan achieved an overall vehicle score of five stars – the highest rating possible - even though some individual ratings, such as rollover, resulted in four-stars. NHTSA applies the results for the CTS sedan to the sport wagon model because of its similar body structure and safety equipment.
“Receiving five stars under the new rating system is an impressive feat – one that clearly demonstrates the strength of the SRX and CTS advanced structure, overall crashworthiness and effectiveness of the models’ state-of-the-art safety technologies,” said Gay Kent, GM executive director of Vehicle Safety.
The SRX and CTS sedan and wagon are designed to help drivers avoid crashes, while protecting occupants in the event a crash occurs. Standard safety features include:
- Driver and front passenger dual-stage frontal and seat-mounted side pelvic/thorax air bags and head curtain side air bags with rollover protection that cover front and outboard rear seating rows.
- Rollover sensors which can activate the head curtain side air bags if sensors determine an imminent rollover. In a rollover, the air bags stay inflated longer to provide increased occupant protection.
- StabiliTrak electronic stability control helps the driver maintain control by comparing the path being steered by the driver with the actual response and, when necessary, applying the brakes or adjusting the throttle or a combination of both.
- Four-channel disc brakes with ABS for sure stops and full-function traction control to make the most of available traction.
- Front safety belt pretensioners to reduce forward movement and load-limiting retractors to help manage forces during a collision
- OnStar, which features the Automatic Crash Response System that uses GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a crash that deploys the air bags.
- Active front seat head restraints on CTS sport sedan and wagon that help reduce the risk of neck injury in low-speed rear collisions
- Side blind zone alert system on CTS models use sensors to detect and warn drivers of vehicles or objects in the side path of the vehicle.
The SRX is also designed to meet European pedestrian protection standards; and the front bumper is positioned for greater compatibility with car bumpers.
Starting with 2011 models, NHTSA introduced tougher tests and more rigorous requirements for its five-star ratings that provide more information about safety feature performance and crash-avoidance technologies. Changes included a new side pole test simulating a 20-mph side-impact crash into a 10-inch-diameter pole or tree at a 75-degree angle just behind the A-pillar on the driver’s side.
The other GM 5-Star models are the Buick LaCrosse without optional rear side-impact air bags; Buick Enclave; Chevrolet Cruze, Volt, Traverse and Camaro coupe, and the GMC Acadia.
** Courtesy of GM Media
Friday, December 16, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
New 2.0L Turbo Engine Boosts the Cadillac ATS
- 135 horsepower per liter among top-performing engines in the world
- Compact ATS debuts at North American International Auto Show in Detroit
DETROIT – A new high-performance 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine will debut in the all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS compact luxury sedan, which will be revealed at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in January.
The Cadillac-tuned, direct-injected engine will produce an estimated 270 horsepower (201 kW). At 135 horsepower per liter, it will be one of the most power-dense automotive engines, besting the highest-performing engines from luxury competitors such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes.
“This engine is the perfect match for the new ATS, which will be a refined performance luxury sedan,” said Don Butler, Cadillac vice president of Global Marketing. “The 2.0T has an exceptionally smooth and responsive power curve that will make the ATS nimble, quick and fun to drive.”
The new 2.0T highlights a broad engine lineup that will power the ATS which is slated to begin production next summer. Cadillac will also offer a normally aspirated 2.5L four cylinder engine and a 3.6L V-6 engine in the ATS.
The 2.0T builds on the advanced-technology heritage of previous GM turbo engines with features that enhance efficiency, durability and refinement.
Among the 2.0T engine’s highlights: a direct-injection twin-cam, four-valve-per-cylinder engine with continuously variable valve timing; twin-scroll turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler; forged-steel crankshaft with modular balance shaft system; and a two-stage variable-displacement oil pump with jet-spray piston cooling.
Overall engine friction is reduced by up to 16 percent. The low-friction design means engine power is delivered more efficiently.
Proprietary computational fluid dynamics analysis techniques were used to develop an all-new combustion system with a higher compression ratio, which also helped boost efficiency.
“The 2.0T is one of the most advanced and efficient engines of its kind, and contributes to the ATS’s exceptional balance of performance and great fuel efficiency,” said Mike Anderson, chief engineer for the 2.0T engine.
The 2.0T has a wide torque curve, delivering 90 percent of its peak 260 lb-ft. of torque (353 Nm) from 1,500 rpm to 5,800 rpm – giving the ATS the feeling of immediate power, whether from launch at a stop light or during higher-speed maneuvers, such as passing.
The turbocharger generates up to 20 pounds of boost and its twin-scroll design helps optimize power availability, virtually eliminating turbo lag and helping deliver a broad power band.
“It has the exhilarating, responsive power available when you want it, yet can provide the fuel efficiency that will make the ATS a fully competitive vehicle in global markets,” Anderson said.
At 135 hp/L, the ATS 2.0T four-cylinder turbo engine has the highest power density among key competitors, including:
- Audi A4’s 2.0L turbo (105.5 hp/L)
- BMW M3’s V-8 (103.5 hp/L)
- Lexus IS F’s V-8 (83.2 hp/L)
- Mercedes-Benz C250’s 1.8L turbo (111.6 hp/L)
Additional details on the ATS will be announced at the 2012 NAIAS. The ATS will be built at the Lansing Grand River plant alongside the Cadillac CTS Sedan, Coupe and Sport Wagon and V-Series performance cars.
Courtesy of Cadillac Media
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Cadillac ATS to be revealed at College for Creative Studies
Cadillac said Friday it plans to reveal its ATS luxury sedan at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit on Jan. 8 -- the night before the North American International Auto Show opens to the media.
The ATS, which is to go on sale by late summer, is a compact luxury sedan that is a crucial addition to Cadillac's product expansion plans in 2012. It represents the brand's entry into the most significant segment in the luxury car market, which includes such competing cars as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi 4 and Lexus ES350.
Workers at GM's Lansing Grand River assembly plant will produce the car. GM is hiring about 600 new workers for the ATS, which the automaker's CEO Dan Akerson and North America President Mark Reuss will present.
Cadillac picked the College for Creative Studies as the venue because GM has donated to the school's $145-million renovation in 2009, and because the company likes to occasionally reveal its new cars in unique locations, said Cadillac spokesman David Caldwell.
"Sometimes it can be a little bit refreshing to step outside of the box," Caldwell said. "We can also do a few things there that we can't do as part of a traditional exhibit."
The ATS is one of five production or concept vehicles that GM plans to introduce as part of the 2012 North American International Auto Show.
The automaker plans to unveil a global production Buick crossover on the morning of Jan. 10.
On Jan. 9, GM plans to reveal two new Chevrolet concepts from its design center in North Hollywood, Calif. The company also plans to show the production version of the Chevrolet Sonic RS, a hot-rod inspired version of the Orion Township-built subcompact.
The full news conference schedule for the auto show is expected to be announced soon.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Cadillac’s CTS-V Named Car and Driver 10Best
- Editor’s Note: DELETES redundant reference to availability in 6th paragraph
DETROIT – Car and Driver magazine today named the Cadillac CTS-V to its 10Best list for 2012, the fifth consecutive year the Cadillac CTS models have appeared on the annual list of the finest new cars.
In its 30th year, the Car and Driver 10Best lists awards the world’s finest, chosen from a field that includes the prior year’s winners and all new or significantly upgraded models for 2012.
“As in years past, the cars on this year’s list represent the best overall vehicles on the market today,” said Eddie Alterman, editor-in-chief, Car and Driver. “Out of 68 contenders, these are the ones that consistently perform the best, are a good value and are engaging, fun-to-drive vehicles.”
The full 2012 Car and Driver 10Best list will be published in the January issue which hits newsstands today.
“Car and Driver’s 10Best list is among the top recognitions for a car to achieve,” said Cadillac Vice President of Global Marketing Don Butler. “This really is a testament to those who design and develop our products to be among the world’s best.”
The Cadillac CTS and CTS V-Series cars, built in Lansing, Mich., are available in sedan, coupe and wagon versions. Cadillac’s V-series cars feature 556- horsepower engines mated to 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions (with paddle shifters), race-inspired Brembo brakes, available Recaro seating and dual-mode Magnetic Ride Control suspension.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Buick LaCrosse eAssist Spending Little Time on Dealer Lots
DETROIT – The Buick 2012 LaCrosse eAssist is spending just 14 days on dealer lots nationally before being sold, and the mileage-boosting light-electrification technology is moving quickly in all regions, including import-leaning California.
Steven Radomski is one of those Golden State converts. A former Toyota Prius hybrid owner, Radomski commutes 100 miles a day, 95 percent on the highway where the LaCrosse’s EPA-estimated 36 mpg impressed him most. In mixed driving, he is averaging 30 mpg – between the EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and the highway estimate.
Radomski said his list of wants and needs – comfort, space and highway fuel efficiency – are all met by the LaCrosse eAssist.
“For the space in this car, 30 mpg is amazing,” Radomski said. “I could have bought one of the new diesels on the market, but the fuel costs more,” to say nothing of expensive fuel additives required to lower diesel emissions. “When you do the math, it’s an obvious choice. And my LaCrosse is working as advertised.”
In part due to the strong start for eAssist, Buick retail sales through November are projected to be up more than 17 percent year to date, with the Enclave luxury crossover expected to deliver another solid gain. Total Regal sales, including the efficient new Regal eAssist and the sporty GS, are expected to continue a trend of sales growth with year-over-year November gains. The new Verano compact luxury sedan is starting to arrive at dealers.
Buick’s eAssist uses an advanced 2.4L Ecotec direct-injection four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic transmission. A small electric motor aids acceleration, while energy captured from regenerative braking allows the engine to shut off completely while the vehicle is at rest without disrupting driver comfort and entertainment systems. The technology was recently recognized on Popular Science’s “Best of What’s New 2011.
“LaCrosse eAssist is a highly efficient sedan that doesn’t compromise on the refinement that comes standard on every Buick,” said Brian Sweeney, U.S. vice president of Buick and GMC Sales and Service. “Getting 36 highway mpg is great, but what’s better is that customers won’t have to give up style, passenger comfort, or the car’s great suite of technology features.”
For a suggested retail price starting under $30,000, Buick’s eAssist is standard on LaCrosse, which also offers more rear legroom than Lexus, Acura, or Infiniti. Available features include rear park assist, side blind zone alert, articulating high-intensity discharge headlamps, and a Harman/Kardon sound system.
Courtesy of GM media
Monday, December 5, 2011
Thank you to the author of this wonderful review!
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Alot of the dealerships couldnt provide me with what I needed and continued to insist on what they think I needed. Also on price it was hard to get a straight answer from someone for the bottom line.
I live up north and spoke with Carlos on the phone. He gave me the package that I asked for without pushing anything on me. I made the trip down to see what they had and he was so nice, professional and didnt try to beat me up for things I didnt need. He gave me the best price and he stuck to his word on the quote given. The process to make this happen went smooth and I was out of there with a beautiful new car!!!! I would highly reccommend him for future business. I traveled fifty miles to get to his location and it was worth the trip!!!" - Anonymous
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Cadillac Diesel Under Consideration for U.S.
A Cadillac diesel? It could happen. Or should we say, happen again. In a recent interview at the launch of the brand’s new XTS flagship sedan (above) at the LA Auto Show, Caddy marketing boss Don Butler admitted that a diesel-powered Cadillac is a possibility. Butler highlighted the torque, as well as the high mixture of performance and efficiency that a diseal engine would bring to the lineup. “We absolutely mean it when we say we aim to compete with the best of the best without compromises. And if that means making the right powertrain choices, then those are the choices we will have to make,” he told Automotive News. That statement is particularly telling as all of Cadillac’s German rivals offer diesel engines. What isn’t clear is what vehicle could get the diesel option, whether it be the popular CTS or SRX crossover, or even an SUV l ike the Escalade or the new XTS. Making this possibility seem even less remote is the fact that General Motors will soon launch a diesel version of the Chevy Cruze in America, with sales starting as early as next year. 
Courtesy of AutoMotive News
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Cadillac Continues Development of All-New ATS
DETROIT – It’s a given that the luxury cars contain high technology, but the finest must have something that cannot appear on the specification chart: expertise. Engineers working on the all-new Cadillac ATS, which begins production in 2012, were handpicked based on their roles in developing other top Cadillacs – and how well they can drive and evaluate cars on grueling test tracks.
Their shared goal: Create a new compact sport sedan challenging the best cars in that category. Most of the engineers on the team also developed Cadillac’s CTS and V-Series high-performance models, and have the highest level of training as test drivers. Some are certified drivers on Germany’s famed Nurburgring test track.
“It's been the persistent attention to detail in noise-vibration-harshness, the gram-by-gram mass reduction, and consistent focus on ‘fun to drive’ attributes that led this team to hone the suspension and steering in the demanding environments of the German Autobahn and Nurburgring Nordschleife,” said ATS lead development engineer Chris Berube.
The ATS will be unveiled in 2012 and will be built at the Lansing Grand River plant in Lansing, Mich., alongside the CTS Coupe, Sedan and Sport Wagon family.
A series of videos featuring highlights of the car’s development are available on the Cadillac YouTube page and on the Cadillac media website.
Courtesy of Cadillac Media
Monday, November 28, 2011
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Cadillac XTS: Advanced Tech Systems Enhance Vision
LOS ANGELES – Using a strategy it calls control and alert, Cadillac will debut a network of cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors on the all-new 2013 XTS to bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards and intervene to help avert potential crashes.
In some cases, Cadillac’s enhanced vision and sensing systems will act without the driver, such as though automatic braking based on information indicating potential obstacles.
“New technology in the XTS is intended to extend the vision around the car, helping drivers identify obstacles and, when necessary, take action to assist them in avoiding a collision,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “Cadillac expands its lineup dramatically in 2012, led by the new XTS, and this suite of technologies is a central component of it.”
The new XTS contains several features using visual and audible alerts designed to identify potential threats with sufficient warning for the driver to react and make changes. One example is the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver’s seat cushion depending on the location of the impending concern. Intervening features, such as automatic braking, take action automatically if the driver is slow to initially react.
The advanced safety features and benefits include:
Front and Rear Automatic Brakes – Using “virtual bumpers” that rely on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors, this feature helps prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extends to complete braking if necessary. For example: If the vehicle is headed toward a small pillar inside a garage or a lamppost on a city street, the system will alert about the hard-to-spot item and stop the vehicle to help prevent an impact.
Adaptive Cruise Control – Using radar technology, this feature can apply limited braking or acceleration to maintain a selected following distance to the vehicle ahead.
Intelligent Brake Assist – Detects a panic-braking situation and assists the driver by applying brake force more quickly to help stop sooner.
Forward Collision Alert – Radar and camera technology detects a possible collision threat and alerts the driver, giving him or her time to stop and/or change course.
Safety Alert Seat – A vibration on either the left or right side of the driver’s seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern, alerts the driver to a potential collision threat.
Automatic Collision Preparation – When the XTS senses a collision is imminent, braking is applied to lessen the severity or perhaps even enable the driver to avoid the incident.
Lane Departure Warning – A camera-based lane detection system that warns the driver of unsignaled lane changes. The camera, mounted near the inside rearview mirror, identifies traffic lane markings and provides audible alerts or activates the Safety Alert Seat.
Side Blind Zone Alert – Using radar sensors on both sides of the vehicle, the system “looks” for other vehicles in the blind zone areas of the XTS and indicates their presence with LED-lit symbols in the outside mirrors.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert – Using radar sensors of the side blind zone alert system, it warns the driver of oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking spot – including angled parking. Visual and audible alerts are triggered if moving vehicles are detected.
Adaptive Forward Lighting – With adaptive forward lighting, the headlamps swivel with direction of the front wheels to maintain forward lighting in concert with vehicle steering.
Rear Vision Camera With Dynamic Guidelines – With a display in the center stack, the camera provides a view of objects directly behind the XTS, with dynamic guide lines laid over the video image to assist in parking maneuvers.
Behind the new technology, XTS has a strong body structure and 10 standard air bags. Other standard safety features include:
- Dual-stage frontal driver air bag
- Dual-stage frontal passenger air bag with passenger sensing system
- Driver and front passenger side-impact air bars
- Driver and front passenger knee air bags
- Outboard head curtain air bags, front and rear, with rollover sensing
- Outboard rear thorax air bags
- Safety belt pretensioners and load limiters
- Child seat LATCH system
- StabiliTrak electronic stability control
- Four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel antilock brakes.
Standard OnStar
XTS features OnStar as standard. It uses GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of collision. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information and OnStar services via the customer’s smartphone.
Courtesy of GM news
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
2013 Cadillac XTS Introduces a New Formula for Luxury
LOS ANGELES – Cadillac unveiled the 2013 XTS today, the newest addition to the Cadillac luxury sedan lineup. It arrives in showrooms in the spring of 2012 as the most technologically advanced production car in the brand’s history.
Larger than the CTS, the new XTS delivers the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are Cadillac signatures, but with entirely new and technically advanced methods tuned for a new generation of luxury customers. It also marks the debut of CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.
In addition to the CUE interface and connectivity, many other advanced technologies are integral to the new XTS. It will be the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control – the world’s fastest-reacting suspension. Advanced technologies that enhance vision are available as well.
Positioned directly above the centerpiece CTS family in Cadillac’s revamped lineup, the new XTS features a 3.6L direct injection engine and advanced all-wheel drive system, marking a shift to more-efficient performance in a spacious luxury sedan.
“The Cadillac XTS represents a new formula for luxury, driven by advanced technology,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “XTS showcases the evolution of our Art & Science philosophy, merging the best technical ideas with the continued refinement of Cadillac design.”
Cadillac CUE is the highly customizable user interface that exemplifies XTS’ blend of advanced technology and artistic design. The heart of CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, is the standard eight-inch (203 mm) screen in the “center stack,” the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls. CUE features several industry firsts, including capacitive-touch control with proximity sensing, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.
Available exclusively on the XTS is the 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable cluster. It features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS’ technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car’s design, capabilities and performance
“The more you look, the more layers you see in XTS,” said Butler. “They aren’t always apparent to the eye, but they build on one another in important ways to reinforce the car’s strength of design, comfort and driving experience.”
Highlights include:
- Advanced Haldex all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
- Magnetic Ride Control, rear air suspension, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo brakes – all standard
- Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
- Direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
- Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
- Folding rear-seat headrests that enhance rear visibility
- Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver
- Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
Short- and long-range radar systems that support:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Front and Rear Automatic Brakes
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
The XTS is also the most-spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area, where it has 40 inches (1,016 mm) of rear legroom. That’s about four more inches than the BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class and about two more inches than the Audi A6 – and comparable to larger sedans.
And when it comes to trunk space, the XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding both midsize and full-size competitors – more than Audi A6 and A8L, BMW 5 and 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E- and S-Class. For XTS customers, the cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.
Technology reinforces multidimensional design philosophy
XTS’ hardware and spatial dimensions are the foundational layers that support a new level of surface detail. Multidimensional exterior and interior elements, including the grille, headlamps and new use of accent lighting, coalesce to give the XTS a presence and attention to detail unlike any Cadillac that has come before it.
“The XTS’ technology is woven into its design in ways that affirm the driving experience is of primary importance to a new generation of luxury customers,” said Clay Dean, design director and Cadillac brand champion. “This is the new expression of luxury at Cadillac and it shows in the multilayered details, authentic materials and unprecedented connectivity.”
CUE, for example, represents the pinnacle of technology, but it is being showcased using a subtle and sophisticated interior appearance that blends with other features to create a soothing and inviting feel. It offers more capability and driver-selectable choices than ever before from Cadillac, but the center stack has only seven buttons – four of them for the radio. That’s less than half the controls found on the center stack of the typical car.
“Technology helps the XTS deliver more with less,” said Dean. “Choreographed interior lighting and other unique features tailored to individual driver preferences complement CUE to create an exceptionally refined and advanced ambience.”
The XTS’ surface details also convey a more-nuanced design philosophy, with elements that support the long, sleek proportion that is a welcome return to Cadillac. They bring forward more beauty and elegance with refined, graceful forms and surfaces working harmoniously with established Cadillac linear forms. It is a car that conveys the next step in Cadillac form and surface vocabulary.
“It is a bold, elegant design and also very efficient in the ways it encompasses passengers and cargo,” said Dean. “It’s a new proportion for Cadillac and a new era in luxury.”
The XTS Platinum is the fullest expression of Cadillac’s multidimensional philosophy, with features that include a chrome/satin-chrome grille finish, polished 20-inch aluminum wheels with chrome inserts, a fully wrapped leather interior with Alcantara headliner and more.
Advanced safety features based on ‘control and alert’ strategy
The XTS’ technology fundamentally supports a suite of advanced safety features, based on a “control and alert” strategy that extends the vision around the vehicle. It helps drivers identify potential crash situations and even intervenes when a crash threat appears more imminent, employing layers of visual, audible and tactile (vibration) alerts, depending on the alert feature.
The alerts are designed to identify obstacles with sufficient warning to give the driver time to react and make changes – including the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver’s seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern. The intervening features, including Automatic Collision Preparation, take over if the threat appears more immediate or the driver does not react to previous alerts.
Two levels of control-and-alert protection are offered in the XTS’ Enhanced Safety Strategy (ESS) packages.
ESS I includes:
- Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Alert
- Safety Alert Seat
- Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Reflected LED display.
ESS II includes all ESS I content plus:
- Head-up display (in color)
- Front and Rear Automatic Brake
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Collision Preparation
XTS also features OnStar as standard. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, which offer vehicle information and OnStar services via the customer’s smartphone.
AWD and Magnetic Ride Control support new driving experience
A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies – all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection and serves as the foundation for the advanced-chassis system.
A smart Haldex all-wheel-drive system – with an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels – complements an advanced HiPer Strut front suspension and standard Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling traits. A linked H-arm design with “air springs” comprises the rear suspension.
HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride-and-handling characteristics in four significant ways:
- Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
- Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
- Reduces torque steer
- Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.
Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control – “reading” the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.
StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and Brembo four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel antilock brakes – all features that add important layers of control to the driving experience. Like Magnetic Ride Control, XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac’s V-Series of high performance models.
Horsepower for the XTS comes from an advanced 3.6L V-6 that’s known by its “LFX” engine code. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.
The LFX engine is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with tap-shift control.
The XTS will begin production in Oshawa, Ontario in spring 2012.
Courtesy of Cadillac Media
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
CTS Coupe Driving Sales and Image Gains
- Top-selling luxury coupe drives brand image, CTS family sales
- CTS lineup and SRX crossover sales rise in September
DETROIT – Through September, and just over a year after its launch, the Cadillac CTS Coupe is America’s best-selling mid-size luxury coupe and vying for first place among all luxury coupes.
The dramatically designed luxury sport coupe is a force in Cadillac’s overall ongoing gains in consumer image in a segment that previously consisted of only well-established European luxury sport models.
Cadillac sold 15,771 CTS Coupes through September, with a take rate of nearly 27 percent with the rest of CTS sales split between Sedan and Sport Wagon models. The industry average for coupe sales is 9 percent among luxury automakers.
“The launch and sales of the CTS Coupe has been an unqualified success and sets the stage for the all-new ATS and XTS models as a critical step in Cadillac’s brand renaissance,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president of Cadillac Sales and Service.
Cadillac’s V-Series of high-performance models feature the brand’s Magnetic Ride Control technology and a 556-hp supercharged engine. Nearly 20 percent of CTS Coupe models sold are V-Series editions. The Coupe and V-Series products give Cadillac an expanding reputation for high performance, a necessary element for the top luxury brands.
The CTS Coupe has attracted new buyers to Cadillac in general. Sales of the other CTS models – Sedan and Sport Wagon – have also increased. Total sales of the CTS family are up 24 percent in 2011, with 4,663 units sold in September.
According to Polk vehicle registration data through July, the CTS Coupe has driven more than half of the mid-luxury sales gains for the year. Comparatively through August, the overall luxury segment share of the industry is down 0.8 points over last year.
Meanwhile, the SRX midsize luxury crossover, which saw its share jump from ninth in the segment to second after its redesign a year earlier, is also vying for the top spot in its segment. Cadillac sold 4,901 SRXs in September, just 102 units fewer than the segment leader.
Escalade continues to lead the full-size luxury SUV segment sales in the United States with total sales of 2,414 units in September.
Beyond its products, Cadillac has also made substantial investments in updating its dealership and sales processes, and revamped its customer care programs, such as Cadillac Shield premium care maintenance and roadside assistance. As a result, Cadillac has grown its share of the luxury retail market 1 percentage point over last year while simultaneously reducing incentives.
Courtesy of media.cadillac.com
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Cadillac Announces XTS Luxury Sedan Debut
DETROIT – The 2013 Cadillac XTS luxury sedan will debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at 12:30 p.m. EST.
About Cadillac
Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.
Courtesy of GM news
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Cadillac Culinary Challenge Test Drive
You and a guest are cordially invited to the Cadillac Culinary Challenge Test Drive. Join us for this free culinary event, where you can experience the very finest of cuisines and the very best of Cadillac.
Stroll leisurely from vehicle to vehicle, comparing the luxury and performance of the Cadillac line up to their challengers. While you’re here, watch an enthusiastic culinary competition between two renowned chefs. Presented by Cadillac’s culinary partners, you can pick up tips from the best in the business and then sample their delicious creations
Monday, November 7, 2011
ATS The Journey Chapter One - Welcome to The Green Hell
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Watch as Cadillac tests develops and perfects our new compact luxury sedan. In the first installment of our Web series, we introduce the 2013 ATS to Germany’s demanding Nürburgring. Dubbed “The Green Hell", this stunning testing ground is known for attracting—and tormenting—the best drivers and performance vehicles in the world.
Click Here To Watch Video:
Friday, November 4, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Save This Winter Season With the Season's Best Winter Event From Cadillac!
Celebrate the winter season with spectacular savings from Cadillac with the Season's Best Winter Event! Save on popular inventory options such as the 2012 Cadillac CTS Sedan, SRX, Escalade, and more! For complete inventory options and finance details, please visit the link: http://bit.ly/rx1Bcm
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Cadillac CUE Offers Personalized Connected Driving Starting In 2012
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Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data, will benefit consumers by offering personalized, connected driving beginning in 2012.
“CUE will transform personal transportation by simply and efficiently integrating luxury design and instinctive technology with unparalleled levels of customized in-vehicle connectivity,” Don Butler, Vice President, Cadillac Marketing, announced at the CTIA Wireless Association’s Enterprise and Applications conference.
CUE will debut in 2012 in the Cadillac XTS and ATS luxury sedans and SRX luxury crossover. CUE is designed to be unique for each consumer, from the “simple user” to the fully connected “super user.”
“For the tech-savvy, it’s everything you want it to be – a full suite of infotainment, navigation and communication tools that keeps you fully connected. For the tech-averse, its power is remarkably simple, intuitive and accessible,” Butler said.
CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, will pair entertainment and information data from up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled mobile devices, USBs, SD cards and MP3 players with a vehicle infotainment system that reduces complexity through customized information, natural voice commands and fewer buttons and larger icons
For example, most of today’s luxury cars have around 20 buttons controlling the radio and entertainment functions. CUE reduces that to just four buttons.
“CUE doesn’t replace your smartphone or your iPod™,” said Micky Bly, executive director, Global Electric Systems, Infotainment and Electrification. “Rather it allows consumers to securely store those mobile devices while channeling the information on those devices, along with your navigation tools, weather maps with Doppler radar, AM/FM and XM radio, instant messages and emails, through a central portal in your Cadillac, keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.”
The heart of CUE is the 8-inch LCD touch screen, seamlessly integrated into the top of the central instrument panel and a motorized fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. The vibrant LCD screen displays CUE’s home page, which resembles a smart phone’s screen by using large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands. Capacitive refers to using electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger.
“CUE is a very elegant in-vehicle hub of all the information and entertainment in your life. All of CUE’s controls use the same design vernacular to create a harmony unique to Cadillac,” said Dave Lyon, executive director, Cadillac Interior Design. “Vibrant colors, a piano black face plate, precision-milled buttons, intuitive touch screen placement and sculpted front console provide a spacious, fashion-forward cabin.”
**Courtesy of Media Cadillac.com
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