24th Mar 2015, 15:22
Yes and no. Cadillacs from the 60s and 70s also shared very similar styling. That's intentional: all brands are supposed to carry an overall brand identity. That's always been the case, and continues to be so. Different trims means different things. Like for example something like a BMW 3, 5, and 7 series. Sure - the cars look at least initially similar. But those different models carry over a different set of drivetrains, trims and overall packages. Cadillac does this, and has always done so.
Besides - the CTA, ATS, and upcoming CT6 (which has yet to be officially revealed other than a few blurry videos) do in fact look different from one another. There are some good people at Cadillac these days, and I really look forward to what they are going to come out with. From what I've heard, they intend to have the brand fully and totally revamped and redone before 2020. The desire is to make the brand as every bit as, or more desirable than the competitors. Cadillac used to be a brand of ultimate luxurious desire. It will be nice to see that sort of car return.
24th Mar 2015, 09:54
Baby boomers typically are the segment the luxury car makers are after. Middle America may buy GM with makes like Chevrolet. Cadillac and Lincoln buyers have historically been more affluent. My dad worked hard as a business owner. It was a sign of achievement to own these cars. Most of middle America could not afford these new.
Now there are European cars going after this segment. American makes have models that are strong competition. Cadillac has not stood still. How much performance and style do you want? To be able to buy a 638 HP Cadillac today with a manual trans is amazing. Cadillac is a technological wonder today. Our family has probably owned more of them and Lincolns than the average. All new. Now you can buy old ones and pay 4 grand. But the manufacturers don't survive designing and develop cars to sell that way. You are helping by buying parts if you buy used.
Ignoring the European and Asian influence, going after the new luxury car segment would be an unwise mistake. You would be very surprised to compare the ride in the modern luxury upscale cars out today. Even Buick is one to watch.
I hope the new luxury sedan Avientar is developed. I just saw one at the 2015 Philadelphia Auto Show. I am sure it will have a high sticker.
Baby Boomers are now our parents age, buying luxury vehicles new today. I am one of them. Many have mortgages paid, college bills over, and want to have a nice, smooth comfortable car to own. If America wants the orders, they have to go after this market. There are plenty buying Mercedes, Lexus and Audi big sedans today. And they are extremely quiet and loaded with amenities of all kinds. The ride and comfort are every bit there. The average American may or may not have 60k up sedans and 70k up for the higher end new Escalade if you want a great riding SUV. Middle America may choose an Impala. But Cadillac and Lincoln have historically gone for upper middle class, deeper pocket owners.
And many have a new C7 sports car in the mix as well. General Motors outdid themselves on that one, working round the clock shifts to meet current demand. And drive the luxury sedan and/or SUV for daily appointments.