
CADILLAC PRODUCT RESURGENCE CONTINUES
WITH TWO ALL-NEW MODELS FOR 2004
For the 2004 model year, the breakthrough
era of Cadillac vehicles reaches full flight with two all-new
entries in new segments - the XLR luxury roadster and SRX luxury
utility.
In addition, 2004 ushers in new varieties
of some of Cadillac's most significant products, with the CTS-V
performance version, the new Platinum version of the Escalade
ESV and a special armored version of the DeVille, available in
both standard sedan and stretch models.
"This is a truly historic time
for Cadillac," said Mark LaNeve, Cadillac general manager.
"The complete Cadillac lineup for the 2004 model year is
more compelling than at any time in the past 50 years. The product
renaissance we began several years ago is now in full force."
Here's an overview of Cadillac's
2004 product offerings:
XLR.
The Cadillac XLR brings a striking new presence to the elite
luxury roadster class with its dynamic design, advanced technology
and a unique blend of luxury and performance. The performance-oriented
chassis and structure, and an all-new 4.6L Northstar V-8 VVT rear-wheel
drive engine make it the lightest, most powerful vehicle in its
class. Bold and edgy, yet elegant and refined, the XLR's linear,
crisp design creates a dramatic presence and modern icon for luxury
and performance. Yet it still pays tribute to the marque's rich
history. The XLR offers the ultimate convenience of a retractable
hard top. By pushing and holding a single button, the XLR can
convert from coupe to open roadster in less than 30 seconds. Compared
to soft-top convertibles, a retractable hardtop is quieter with
the top up, more secure and more visually pleasing. XLR also features
a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, Magnetic Ride Control,
StabiliTrak, heated and cooled seats, Keyless Access with push-button
start and DVD navigation and entertainment. It appears at dealerships
in summer 2003.
SRX.
The bold, breakthrough styling of the SRX instantly announces
Cadillac's arrival in the medium luxury utility segment. This
all-new vehicle brings a heightened level of performance and flexibility
to the segment, is based on GM's acclaimed new Sigma architecture
and is available in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive
(AWD) applications. The SRX uses the next-generation 4.6L Northstar
V-8 VVT (variable valve timing) or the all-new 3.6L V-6 VVT. A
near 50-50 weight distribution, a low center of gravity, outstanding
powertrain combinations and a host of the latest vehicle stability
technologies contribute to make SRX a rare utility vehicle that
is, at its core, fun to drive. Chassis management and vehicle
control systems on the SRX offer a high level of sophistication
and help the vehicle respond accordingly to virtually all types
of driving conditions. Features include the latest four-channel
StabiliTrak active suspension control and available segment-first
Magnetic Ride Control. The electronically controlled magnetic-fluid
based real-time damping is the world's fastest-reacting suspension
control system. SRX offers an optional third row seat to hold
up to seven passengers and appears at dealerships in fall 2003.
CTS.
Fashioned from Cadillac's edgy, bold design vocabulary, first-year
CTS sales were strong, at 37,976, well ahead of the 30,000 units
projected for 2002. For the 2004 model year, the CTS-V will debut,
which will become the most powerful car in Cadillac's lineup ever.
CTS-V will be available in late '03. Also for 2004, the already
successful CTS sedan will get an all-new, more powerful 3.6L V-6
VVT engine on automatic transmission models, incorporating features
and technology packaged to deliver high performance and refinement.
In addition, the CTS also features suspension and interior changes
for the 2004 model year.
DeVille.
The DeVille gains heated and cooled seats and a heated steering
wheel for 2004, along with new exterior colors. The DeVille also
debuts a state-of-the-art armored edition for 2004. Designed to
provide an added level of security, this extraordinary DeVille
is intended for executives, officials and others who may require
a high level of protection as they travel. The armored DeVille
is available in both standard sedan and 8-inch stretch models,
with a range of options to suit individual customer requirements.
Seville.
The 2004 model year is one of transition for Seville. In May
2003, Cadillac discontinues the STS model to make way for the
all-new Sigma-architecture based 2005 STS performance sedan, which
begins production in summer 2004. As a result, the only Seville
for the 2004 model year will be the SLS, which will be unchanged
from the 2003 version and also will end production in December
2003. In addition, Cadillac will retire the Seville nameplate
after the SLS ends production.
Escalade.
An instant hit with professional
athletes, musicians, movie stars and automotive enthusiasts, Escalade's
self-assured stance and strong lines have attracted younger, affluent
buyers to Cadillac, inspired song lyrics and created quite an
impressive following. The 2003 model year was one of marked change
for the award-winning Escalade. For 2004, subtle refinements and
new standard equipment improve the marque.
Escalade
EXT. A sport utility truck, with elements of a luxury
SUV and pickup truck, the Escalade EXT is a bold symbol of Cadillac's
reinvigoration. Like Escalade, it is exposing the division to
new generations and categories of buyers who might not have considered
a Cadillac in the past.
Escalade
ESV. Cadillac adds the ESV Platinum Edition to its newest
Escalade ESV variant. This luxurious offspring is the roomiest,
most powerful full-size luxury SUV available, and moves Cadillac
into an all-new area of this growing market. The Platinum Edition
features the most lavishly appointed interior available in an
Escalade.