It might look like a crude Chevrolet Caprice, but upon further inspection, we realize that this particular vehicle is hiding something. And it seems to be the makings of a new, full-sized rear-wheel drive vehicle. The only vehicle of that nature on the radar is the upcoming Omega platform Cadillac flagship sedan, which we believe will be called LTS.
Due out in 2015 as a 2016 model, the program is known internally within GM as O1SL, and it’s designed to combat the sacred Mercedes-Benz S-Class, along with the BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and the like. There was also a larger, more luxurious O1LL program in the works, which was reported to target the likes of Bentley, but that program has since been cancelled.
Now, based on what we’ve seen with both the Cadillac Ciel and Elmiraj concepts — both of which are driveable — the powertrains of the upcoming Cadillac LTS may be unique from the rest of the current Cadillac lineup. The Ciel featured a twin-turbo 3.6L V6 (LF3) mated to a hybrid system. In concept form, Cadillac said the Ciel was pushing 425 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, with what we can only imagine as being impressive fuel economy numbers to accompany the power. That sounds like a great powertrain for a full-sized luxury sedan, doesn’t it?
Meanwhile, the Cadillac Elmiraj concept cradled a 4.5L twin-turbocharged V8 that is said to be pushing out 500 horsepower, though it’s unclear whether or not the engine is a member of the Gen.V Small Block V8 family that we’re coming to know with the Corvette Stingray’s 6.2L LT1. To note, the Elmiraj also featured what will possibly become the new logo for the Cadillac brand, and a Vsport badge, as Cadillac aims to grow the Vsport sub-brand.
For a full gallery of photos, visit Automobile.
— Manoli Katakis
Former staff.
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After this car’s release if an single american will buy: BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Jaguar XJ, Maserati Quattroporte, Lexus LS or Hyundai Equus. just headshot them
Well the coupe is a ways off yet.
The time line is looking like this.
The Sedan is going to be here 2015 as a 2016 and then a Crossover on the Omega and then maybe the coupe and convertible.
There will be some changes and more refinement here for production but this car should impact the market well when we see the production sedan at the shows prior to the release in the 3rd quarter of 2015.
GM just needs to make sure everything is spot on in this car and have all the details right so no critic can punch any holes in it. This is the car to represent the entire line and it needs to be perfect. Much of the refinement learned on the ATS and CTS will really help with this car.
“GM just needs to make sure everything is spot on in this car and have all the details right so no critic can punch any holes in it. This is the car to represent the entire line and it needs to be perfect.”
^This, and I would go further to suggest that whatever becomes of this car will reflect upon GM as well, right down to the Spark.
I wouldn’t care if money was lost on each unit sold; I don’t see ROI as being the primary reason for this cars existence and purpose. The LTS will not so much an image builder, but a pen that GM uses to write a statement addressed to the world about Cadillac.
That statement is detailing a marriage at Cadillac; a beautiful and fantastic union of technology, engineering, material quality, and design that have coalesced and distilled into a singular product.
Well if it is done right they should not have to take a loss. The media would just love it if they took a loss.
This car done properly should be spot on and make a profit.
As for mission statements they are BS. Every car GM does should be a statement that we are striving to be best no matter the make or model.
GM is getting closer to this with each and ever new car now since they have cleaned up the carry over models like the Malibu. The new post chapter 11 cars like the Impala, CTS , ATS, C7 and trucks all show what GM can and will do in the future. Each has shown they can contend with the best in segment.
Now once they replace the carry overs like the Malibu, Regal, Cruze and others they will take it up a notch even with these improved cars.
As it once was said we have only began to fight. GM is just now moving forward and it was a 10-12 year deal to get to where they will be to where they need to be. This was not a 5 year deal in no way.
The thing is we have a lot more coming and things not even imagined yet to come. I think many will be surprised at what GM has and will have coming in the next 5-6 years.
We the GM fans will go from the odd man out to being the cool people again for the first time in 40 plus years.
Very exclted to see this. The car is going to be amazing. I know I’m gunna sound ridiculous, but please make sure there are power folding mirrors, a power closing trunk, and soft close doors. I still can’t believe that these few feature are not on the new CTS, never mind the more expensive XTS.
The BMW’s (7 Series)and Mercedes’s (S Class) they are what they are. They weren’t built yesterday. Cadillac stop comparing to them, just because of a few concepts you have. But, from the concepts you have they do look like winners. Stand out on your own, Cadillac, own the luxury like you use to, be meticulous about these cars when build them. Think of options that no one has. Power, that should be an option and should be done very well. Time will tell and then start comparing. Compete against yourself for now. Harry.
How on earth could you even consider changing the Caddy logo????
Pure madness!
Marvin Birnbom
It’s already changed 10 times in the brand’s history. Hardly maddening.
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