Today marks the beginning of the New York International Auto Show, meaning a slew of new cars have been officially unveiled to the world for the first time. Cadillac pulled back the curtain on their CT6 just a little early, releasing its full details in a press release March 31.
Just one of eight new cars that Cadillac plans on unveiling by 2020, the CT6 comes as part of a $12 billion investment in creation and expansion of the marque’s product line. Its first unveiling was during the Oscars, when their #DareGreatly marketing campaign was officially kicked off. A daring model indeed, the CT6 certainly pushes forward into new territory.
Power
The 2016 Cadillac CT6 features an all-new 3.0-liter twin turbo engine that can create an evenly matched 400 hp and 400 lb-ft, all mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. As the release states, “the industry’s first application of cylinder deactivation technology on a turbocharged V-6 engine” increases efficiency. Two other engines are also offered, a 2.0-liter, turbocharged inline four and a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6. When Active-on-demand all-wheel drive is in use, up to 959 lb-ft of torque can be delivered to the front wheels to conquer whatever conditions lie ahead.
Chassis
The structure of the car features 13 high-pressure aluminum castings, which contribute to a lower body weight and a quieter cabin. 21 new patents were created during the development of this body structure, which was likened to a bank vault in its sturdiness and soundproofing. An Active Chassis System offers active-on-demand all-wheel drive, Magentic Ride Control and active rear steering. At 204 inches for length, this new American machine weighs just under 3,700 pounds.
Exterior
Designed to reflect the lightweight body, the exterior features “dynamic use of line work and sophistication” in its construction. The front fascia seems to be more inspired by Cadillac’s SUVs of the past, while narrowing out to better fit a sedan’s width and height. The headlights feature Standard Indirect Fire light-emitting diodes, bringing a sense of new technology to the front view.
Interior
The interior boasts levels of luxury that have yet to be touched by Cadillac’s designs. Options for seating and paneling details include luxurious leathers, exotic wood and carbon fiber, while massage programs for each seat are an available option. Media controls are also accessible from every seat, with USB and HDMI ports included in each armrest. 10-inch diagonal screens are available for rear passengers, and they can retract into the rear of the front seats when not in use. A Bose audio system brings stellar clarity to any soundtrack.
Conclusion
Production is set to begin at the end of 2015 for the North American market, and in 2016 for the Chinese-market models. Though pricing has yet to be announced, we can presume that Cadillac’s re-entry into the luxury segment will lie somewhere in the $55,000 – $70,000 range for a standard package.
Gallery
(Source: Cadillac)
