Cadillac to get a V12 on the Zeta Chassis

Casull · 03-22-2007, 10:41 AM

DETROIT — General Motors has given the green light to an ambitious new V12 engine project. It seems to pave the way for the introduction of a high-end Cadillac model inspired by the stunning Sixteen concept revealed to rave reviews back in 2003, according to well-placed Inside Line sources.

Exact details remain scarce, but IL has obtained information confirming that the new V12 combines two of GM's 60-degree 3.6-liter V6 engines together on a single crankshaft. The modular layout is designed to allow it to be manufactured on existing production lines. Among the features it has been conceived to carry into production later this decade are direct injection, cylinder deactivation and the very latest in exhaust-gas recirculation technology.

The range-topping sedan is set to receive the XLS name, for which GM has held the trademark for some time. It is conceived to rival the Mercedes-Benz S-Class on performance, comfort, safety and features, and is the brainchild of the company's outspoken production boss, Bob Lutz. He reportedly considers the model essential to expanding the brand's identity and providing it with a more international flavor as Cadillac seeks to gain ground in key world markets.

The new Cadillac is tentatively due to be revealed in 2009 prior to the start of North American sales the following year. The basis for the new car is a stretched version of GM's new rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform that is found beneath the new Pontiac G8 and the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro. Along with the new V12, the upmarket Cadillac is also set to receive an as-yet unspecified V8 engine.

Commenting on the V12 engine project while visiting England for the introduction of the right-hand-drive Hummer H3 late last week, Lutz said development work is ongoing at General Motors' Holden subsidiary in Australia, adding that it had been earmarked for a new Cadillac model.

Moosen75 · 03-22-2007, 11:57 AM

Mercedes better watch out with that one.

Casull · 03-22-2007, 12:50 PM

I will be very interested to see how it performs against the SL65, Mercedes V12 monster.

*KILLER74Z28* · 03-22-2007, 02:15 PM

Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet...

Dave McFly · 03-23-2007, 05:39 AM

It is the cover story of the newest issue of Autoweek, I have it on my nightstand, ill scan it tomorrow. it has picture of the Sixteen concept, and a 1930s era V16 caddy in the article as well.

Moose · 03-23-2007, 08:06 AM

Cadillac is really on the right track.

Casull · 03-23-2007, 08:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Moose

Cadillac is really on the right track.

I would say GM is really on the right track! They are really starting to put out some great vehicles!

Moose · 03-23-2007, 08:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Casull

I would say GM is really on the right track! They are really starting to put out some great vehicles!

Yes. I agree...GM has really turned things around and I'm very impressed with what 'The General' has to offer.

*Mr. Wyndham* · 03-23-2007, 04:45 PM

Quote:

Yes. I agree...GM has really turned things around and I'm very impressed with what 'The General' has to offer.

too true...a V12, geesh!

Moosen75 · 03-23-2007, 10:05 PM

the cadillac brand is certianly going in the right direction. a great mix of style and performace. i love the v series cars.

03-22-2007, 10:41 AM	#1
Casull Drives: Chevy Silverado Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Indianapolis Posts: 754	Cadillac to get a V12 on the Zeta Chassis DETROIT — General Motors has given the green light to an ambitious new V12 engine project. It seems to pave the way for the introduction of a high-end Cadillac model inspired by the stunning Sixteen concept revealed to rave reviews back in 2003, according to well-placed Inside Line sources. Exact details remain scarce, but IL has obtained information confirming that the new V12 combines two of GM's 60-degree 3.6-liter V6 engines together on a single crankshaft. The modular layout is designed to allow it to be manufactured on existing production lines. Among the features it has been conceived to carry into production later this decade are direct injection, cylinder deactivation and the very latest in exhaust-gas recirculation technology. The range-topping sedan is set to receive the XLS name, for which GM has held the trademark for some time. It is conceived to rival the Mercedes-Benz S-Class on performance, comfort, safety and features, and is the brainchild of the company's outspoken production boss, Bob Lutz. He reportedly considers the model essential to expanding the brand's identity and providing it with a more international flavor as Cadillac seeks to gain ground in key world markets. The new Cadillac is tentatively due to be revealed in 2009 prior to the start of North American sales the following year. The basis for the new car is a stretched version of GM's new rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform that is found beneath the new Pontiac G8 and the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro. Along with the new V12, the upmarket Cadillac is also set to receive an as-yet unspecified V8 engine. Commenting on the V12 engine project while visiting England for the introduction of the right-hand-drive Hummer H3 late last week, Lutz said development work is ongoing at General Motors' Holden subsidiary in Australia, adding that it had been earmarked for a new Cadillac model.

03-23-2007, 05:39 AM	#5
Dave McFly new car smell Drives: 2007 Ford Mustang 'Natasha' Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Jamestown, NY Posts: 2,127 View My Garage	It is the cover story of the newest issue of Autoweek, I have it on my nightstand, ill scan it tomorrow. it has picture of the Sixteen concept, and a 1930s era V16 caddy in the article as well. __________________ "May the forces of evil become confused on the way to your house." George Carlin

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03-22-2007, 11:57 AM	#2
Moosen75 Drives: Junk til 2008 Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Philadelphia, Pa Posts: 173	Mercedes better watch out with that one.

03-22-2007, 12:50 PM	#3
Casull Drives: Chevy Silverado Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Indianapolis Posts: 754	I will be very interested to see how it performs against the SL65, Mercedes V12 monster.

03-22-2007, 02:15 PM	#4
KILLER74Z28 MOD SQUAD Drives: 2G1FT1EW9A9100666 Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: West Michigan Posts: 5,782 View My Garage	Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet...

03-23-2007, 08:06 AM	#6
Moose Moderator Drives: '99 Camaro SS #1392 Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Newtown, Pa. Posts: 3,982	Cadillac is really on the right track.

03-23-2007, 10:05 PM	#10
Moosen75 Drives: Junk til 2008 Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Philadelphia, Pa Posts: 173	the cadillac brand is certianly going in the right direction. a great mix of style and performace. i love the v series cars.