The Auto Writer

As GM continues to find a place in its new post bankruptcy world, Cadillac will play a significant role in bolstering the automaker. Larger, more luxurious vehicles also bring in more profits, just the right tonic needed for any ailing automaker.

CTS Line

The CTS line has been a success story for Cadillac since it was first introduced in 2003. Initially offered as a mid-size sedan, it has since been followed up by a potent V-Series sedan and a sport wagon. For 2008, the CTS was vastly improved, demonstrating to the world that Cadillac can build a world class European style sport sedan while dispelling the notion that the brand offers nothing but hulking land yachts.

At the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, GM took the wraps off of the CTS Coupe concept, a stunningly beautiful car that many enthusiasts hoped would extend the CTS franchise. Last summer, GM confirmed that the CTS coupe was on its way, but was being vague as to its actual release date. Yesterday, GM confirmed that the coupe will be in Cadillac showrooms next spring, with its official global debut set for the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show on December 2nd.

New Followers

A lot will be riding on the coupe which GM says will be the focal point of Cadillac. GM is not only interested in winning current Cadillac fans to the new model, but attracting a new generation of fans including current BMW and Mercedes drivers.

The Cadillac CTS Coupe will offer a 2+2 seating configuration. Though the concept did not include a B-Pillar, the production model will. However, close scrutiny at the photography released by GM of the preproduction model reveals a car that is quite close in appearance to the concept. GM says that the coupe will only share the instrument panel, console, headlamps, front fenders and grille with the sedan while offering a deeply angled windshield, integrated rear spoiler, sculpted lower front fascia, and other distinguishing touches.

A 3.6L VVT engine – the same engine found in a number of GM vehicles lately including the Chevrolet Camaro – will be standard and paired with a six-speed manual transmission. That engine produces 304 horsepower, runs on regular gasoline and can be optionally paired with an automatic transmission.

Cadillac plans to offer a pair of suspension-tuning levels including a Performance Package with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires (available in both RWD and AWD,) and the Summer Tire Performance Package, with 19-inch tires and wheels and a higher level of road holding capability. StabiliTrak, the advanced electronic chassis control system available on many GM models, is standard with the Cadillac CTS Coupe.

Mission Accomplished

Along with the standard and V-Series sedan, sport wagon, and the coupe, a V-Series coupe and sport wagon are also being planned. And with the SRX crossover already on the market, the entire lower end of the Cadillac market will soon be complete leaving just the Escalade and the replacement for the STS and DTS to come forth over the next few years.

Photo Credit: GM Corp.