Rear Drive Big Caddy? Bring It On!

Whenever you hear buzz about this model change or that new engine or transmission, it is easy to dismiss such talk out of hand as rumors. After all, so many concept models never head to production and the plans touted by auto executives often gets curtailed or modified by top management.

Cadillac Replacement

Rumors that Cadillac would get a new model to replace both the STS and DTS have been dancing around for ages. Cadillac is in need of some serious new product although I must say that both its SRX crossover and CTS line are doing quite well, the former a surprise sale success while the latter continues to demonstrate that it is up to the challenge to take on Europe’s finest brands.

Left Lane News reported today that Cadillac is reconsidering what it has in mind for its next generation full size model, stating that Car & Driver believes that it will be a rear wheel drive model. Not just any RWD sedan mind you, but one that would carry the CTS battle up to larger models, perhaps offering a challenge to the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S Class.

Hyundai Happenings

Here is a big reason why I believe that this report has merit: later this year the Hyundai Equus will roll out, a big sedan designed to take on the largest German sedans including the Audi A8 and the previously mentioned Mercedes and BMW models. Hyundai is effectively exposing Cadillac weakness because the DTS is aged and not competitive. Cadillac still needs to have a viable livery vehicle option and a car that can poach sales from competitors.

I also like the idea that a stretched version of the CTS Sigma platform would underpin the new big Cadillac. GM needs to contain costs and the CTS is a proven model. At least for the first generation DTS replacement such an arrangement might work out, before other options are considered.

In any case, moving Cadillac forward means looking behind the SRX and CTS, offering replacements for aged models including the STS, DTS and the Escalade. Yes, a hybrid model option would also help, especially as much higher fuel economy numbers begin to weigh in.