GM’s design chief acknowledges that SUVs are a “necessary evil,” but confirms that sedans are here to stay.
Cadillac has created some stunning concepts over the years, such as the impressive 2002 Cien with its powerful V-12 engine. Although this mid-engine marvel never entered production, General Motors’ luxury brand hasn’t abandoned the idea of launching a supercar—or even a hypercar.
GM’s design chief has expressed strong interest in developing a flagship performance model.
In an interview with Australian magazine Carsales, Michael Simcoe remarked: “Could we build a hypercar? Yes. Would we like to build one? Yes. Are we building one? That would be giving too much away.” He also noted that the high-performance model wouldn’t necessarily have to be fully electric, though an all-electric version hasn’t been ruled out either.
A hypercar bearing the Cadillac crest isn’t far-fetched, considering the brand’s history with concept cars. Beyond the Cien, there’s also the 2003 Sixteen, which featured a massive V-16 engine.
If Ford can successfully market a $325,000 Mustang GTD, why shouldn’t Cadillac enter this arena? While the Mustang isn’t a hypercar, a high-performance Cadillac could be a viable venture. After all, Ford managed to sell all units of its six-figure GT.
In a separate conversation with CarExpert, Michael Simcoe discussed conventional cars and described SUVs as a “necessary evil.” He explained that “they’ve dominated the market because as the world around you starts to grow, you want to be part of it as well. When everyone else is sitting higher in their vehicles, you need to do it too. It’s a comfortable, rational purchase.”
Despite the ongoing surge in SUV sales, Cadillac remains dedicated to sedans. GM’s design chief revealed that a new sedan model will be launched “at some point in the future” to complement the Celestiq. Although the opulent $340,000 flagship is technically not a sedan, it is an oversized liftback with a more practical tailgate.
Simcoe believes that sedans are not only more aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable to drive than crossovers, but also more aerodynamically efficient due to their lower ride height. In the United States, Cadillac offers only the CT4, CT5, and the Celestiq. However, the CT6 remains available in China, where traditional sedans continue to be popular.
Additionally, GM’s Buick division sells the LaCrosse, Regal, and Verano in China, none of which are available in the US.
