Staff Report
Dubai: Escala Concept car, making its first experience in the Middle east that formed the centerpiece of the Cadillac stand at this year’s Dubai International Motor Show (14-18 November) as visitors received a tantalizing glimpse at the future direction of the brand.
The future is certainly bright for Cadillac, with the Escala amplifying its new design DNA and the brand currently introducing industry-leading technologies such as Super Cruise. But the show also provided an opportunity to view new CT6 and XT5 models. Cadillac has also announced the regional debut of the new 2018 XTS Platinum version which showcases a new generation of Cadillac design and technology.
Designed to be both a driver’s car and an indulgent flagship sedan, Cadillac’s Escala showcases future design and technical systems in development and is a concept for a more expressive, expansive companion to the current range-topper, the CT6.
The new face of Cadillac design will begin appearing on production models soon and includes a new expression of Cadillac’s signature vertical lighting-thin, deep-set organic light emitting diode (OLED) elements give it a sinister look.
Three very thin, curved OLED screens feature prominently in the front, consolidating the traditional “cluster” of driving gauges into one integrated unit. Like all Cadillac models today, the interior is assembled using hand cut-and- sewn techniques, but is further inspired by suiting material used by Cadillac’s fashion industry partners.
Speaking about Cadillac’s display at DIMS, Andrew Lipman, Cadillac’s Global Communications Director, said: “We wanted to demonstrate our commitment to our customers and fans in the Middle East, and what better way than by revealing a concept car that lays the blueprint for the future of the brand.”
“Starting with the launch of the first ever XT4 in 2018, we will bring a new Cadillac to market every six months, a total of five vehicle lines in the space of just two years. And these models will feature some of the most advanced technology in the automotive industry,” he added.
Two other 2018 models to benefit from Cadillac’s new styling and design were also shown off at the show: the CT6 and XT5. Rounding off the display were the 2018 models of the brand’s flagship large SUV – Escalade, and the ATS-V and CTS-V models from Cadillac’s acclaimed high-performance V-Series.
The 2018 CT6 has all the size, prestige and technology of a large luxury sedan, while offering the driving dynamics and efficiency of a mid-size sport sedan. Built with one of the industry’s most advanced body structures, the CT6 is equipped with an Active Chassis system and either a 3.0L Twin Turbo or 3.6L V6 engine. Hi-tech features include Enhanced Night Vision, Advanced Park Assist and Rear Camera Mirror, combining camera technology with the conventional inside mirror to project an unobstructed view in the mirror.
The XT5 combines spacious luxury and high-tech convenience features to create the perfect crossover. A lightweight construction elevates efficiency and driving performance while the all-new design and structure increases interior space without adding bulk. The 2018 XT5 is
powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine and advanced all-wheel drive, as well as advanced features such as a rear camera mirror, Apple Carplay and Android auto compatibility, and front- and rear-seat USB capabilities.
Visitors were also able to experience the brand’s flagship model, the 2018 Escalade, which features a new 10-speed automatic transmission and bold new interior and exterior color options. The Escalade has long defined spacious premium driving with its modern design, powerful capabilities and sumptuous amenities that keep luxury firmly in the driver’s seat.
Cadillac CTS-V sedan is powered by a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine, that delivers 640 hp (477 kW), 630 lb-ft of torque (855 Nm) and is mated to a paddle-shift eight- speed automatic transmission. For 2o18, it introduces Apple Watch integration, two additional USB ports in the rear console and a new range of colors.
Speaking at the show, Christian Soemmer, Managing Director of Cadillac Middle East, commented: “With new models hitting the market and new facilities set to open in the near future, now is an extremely exciting time for Cadillac and its customers across the Middle East.”
