Detroit show: Cadillac CTS Coupe

BY JAMES STANFORD AND TERRY MARTIN | 21st Jan 2008


CADILLAC has revealed a coupe version of its CTS model at the North American International Auto Show to complement its fire-breathing CTS-V sedan.

While the supercharged V8 CTS-V is a production model, the CTS coupe was presented in Detroit last week as a concept. GoAuto understands the CTS Coupe will likely go into production, competing against two-door versions of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-class. Cadillac said the concept car was designed to run either the 3.6-litre direct-injection petrol V6 that powers the regular CTS sedan or a 2.9-litre turbo-diesel engine that is currently being developed. It said the new common-rail diesel would produce 184kW and 550Nm of torque. The CTS coupe is described as a 2+2 seater, with the falling coupe roofline reducing rear headroom. It has the same wheelbase as a standard CTS, but is 51mm lower and 51mm shorter. The concept car, which has no B-pillar for a cleaner look, runs 20-inch wheels at the front and 21-inch on the rear.

Cadillac Provoq:

GENERAL Motors chose to unveil its Cadillac Provoq concept at a consumer electronics show in Las Vegas earlier this month, but the electric fuel cell vehicle remained a big talking point at the Detroit auto show last week. Illustrating Cadillac’s intent to offer a small SUV to rival the likes of the BMW X3, the Provoq is expected to enter production in 2009 – in right-hand drive as well as LHD, which makes it a strong candidate for release in Australia. The Provoq concept uses a fuel cell version of GM’s E-Flex electric propulsion system, combining a small hydrogen fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery.



It is a powertrain that will not appear on the launch vehicle – watch out for a V6 petrol engine – but it does serve to demonstrate Cadillac’s intention to be a technology leader. Other interesting features on the five-seat Provoq include a solar panel integrated into the roof to help power onboard accessories, and front grille louvres that close at highway speed (to enhance aerodynamics) and open again at low speeds (to provide maximum cooling to the fuel cell stack). The exterior design builds on the Australia-bound CTS. The vehicle rests on a 2906mm wheelbase and measures 4580mm in overall length, 1850mm in width and 1703mm in height. The chassis hardware includes a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes (combining with brake-by-wire technology).

Read more:

First look: CTS expected to lead Caddy charge

First look: High-performance Cadillac breaks cover

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