Ever since Cadillac’s reveal of the Elmiraj Coupe Concept back in August, I’ve wondered how it would translate into a four-door large sedan, sitting as the pinnacle vehicle in the luxury carmaker’s lineup. Sure, some may say that the XTS fills a part of the void; but it’s debatable whether it really has the right credentials to fight any of the big Germans.
Nevertheless, there’s word that Cadillac is developing such a rival and test mules wearing Chevy Caprice PPV clothing have been spotted out and about. So with that in mind, it was decided to illustratively explore how a large Caddy could look.
Design:
Straight off the bat, I’ll make no secret that this proposal was heavily based off the Elmiraj Concept car. For starters, the Elmiraj has the right proportions, size and elegant detailing to successfully translate into a large sedan. Where this differs with its ‘Art and Science’ design language is in the details.
Starting from the front; the long, imposing hood is squared-off by sleek vertical LED headlamps that flow down into the corners of the bumper - similar to those found on the latest CTS. The grille retails the same overall width of the Elmiraj’s, yet adds elegant horizontal bars with segmented mesh inserts. Word has it the Cadillac badge may give loose its accompanying wreath; however as this is yet to be confirmed, the current version stays for now.
In addition, making the jump from concept coupe to concept illustration are the lower swathe lines that run the length of the vehicle; these are exaggerated by lower sill extensions that begin their narrow path from the front, leading to the rear, where they widen out onto the bumper. Above this is an element from Cadillac’s past - a fender-vent encompassing chrome strip that leads down the side of the front doors to emphasize its premium status.
Above the fluid shoulder lines is cabin architecture that will look familiar to some; the side DLO (daylight opening area) has been massaged from the CTS, albeit with stronger chrome-work that adds a hint of S-Class to the affair.
One area that where I thought the latest CTS disappoints, is in the hindquarters. Such a vehicle with a strong frontal presence should equally look great from the rear too. In this proposal, the recessed trunk follows some of the elements of the outer grille. The same applies to the taillights using a similar theme from the headlights.
Interior:
GM’s luxury division has been on a roll with its interiors in recent years. Compare the original CTS with its trash bin-like materials to the latest ATS, CTS and Escalade - their premium switchgear, materials and build quality, are now comparable with best in class.
However, any range-topper needs to push the envelope further with exquisite design and technological detailing. Think beyond what’s currently found in the Jaguar XJ, Audi A8 and BMW 7-Series; such a cabin could be based on the glorious Elmiraj’s. If you couple that with all the latest gadgetry, even Mercedes-Benz would sit up and take notice.
Cabin real estate would be vast enough to comfortably seat its passengers with room to spare; and ideally, to provide space for various business and luxury packages from integrated personal computers & keyboards to reclining, massaging and climate-controlled seating.
What Could Power It:
If dreams were free I’d be shoe-horning the C6 Corvette’s, ballistic 6.2-liter supercharged V8 from the ZR1. However, realistically speaking, we learned from one of our sources that the top Cadillac sedan will go on sale in 2016 with a new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 as well as the current 3.6-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 420hp in the CTS V-Sport. At the high end of the range, we expect it to utilize the 500 hp 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8 that debuted in the Elmiraj. Transmission-wise; a 9 or 10-speed automatic would help send those potent horses to the tarmac via the wide rear rubber, and possibly, all-four wheels as well.
Alternatively, a V6 hybrid setup could be utilized for the more fuel-conscious drivers out there. However it’s likely any diesel offering would be off the cards for the American and Canadian markets.
Platform & Handling:
This design study rides on the same base that underpins the Elmiraj, which is code-named ‘Omega’ - it’s a work-in-progress platform intended for larger GM RWD vehicles.
Usually car manufacturers like to get a good balance between ride and handling; for luxury cars, there is a tendency to gun for a smoother riding experience. However, such a large Cadillac could have the best of both worlds by utilizing adaptive damping or air suspension. Sure, technological wizardry won’t turn it into an Ariel Atom, but it will keep the driver and its important human cargo happy.
For the driver who is, well err…a tad careless behind the wheel; one would expect a plethora of driving aids. From automated emergency braking, self-park assist and even an autonomous mode that will take care of collision avoidance & lane-keeping if the driver decides to nod off.
Market Positioning:
As a large range-topping sedan, this proposal has intentions to take the fight right up against the established kings in this market: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, Jaguar XJ and Lexus LS. Whilst my personal favorite is currently the Jaguar XJ, Cadillac’s benchmark should be the S-Class - an engineering triumph that sits right up there with the best as an automotive pinnacle.
Sales-wise, Cadillac has been rather frank about its poor showing in Europe and other markets - they know the numbers need to improve, and have the ball rolling with their BMW 5-Series-challenging CTS. A proposal like this would potentially help reinforce that GM means business and improve brand awareness in critical markets.
Overall, if Cadillac were to follow the lines of this study, a rather compelling piece of kit could emerge as a serious alternative to the established main players. Coupled with powerful drivetrains, clever interior packaging and standout styling; it may even surprise a few that are dedicated to (European) brand snobbery.
Let us know your thoughts and suggestions in the discussion section below.
By Josh Byrnes
Photo Renderings Copyright: Carscoops / Josh Byrnes
