Does Cadillac Need A MINI-Fighter?

Edward Niedermeyer
by Edward Niedermeyer

The designer of Cadillac’s recent ULC city car concept seems to think so. Niki Smart tells Autocar

The time is ripe for Cadillac to make this car. We need a bigger spread of models, particularly for Europe. The Mini’s success is proof of people’s open-mindedness.

Whether or not Cadillac needs a subcompact car in its lineup, Smart’s point that the MINI is proof of consumers’ “open-mindedness” is worth examining. Specifically because MINI was launched as a unique brand, its success is more of a testament to the brand’s slick marketing than any consumer “open-mindedness.” After all, BMW made certain to launch the MINI as a MINI before bringing out a BMW version of its front-drive chassis… and when it does bring out a BMW-branded version, it can probably expect a certain amount of pushback from hard-core fans of the brand.

And that strategy comes from a brand that has no lack of brand equity, especially in the European market where a city car would be sold. Cadillac, on the other hand, has enjoyed little of BMW’s marketing mojo, especially in the European market (and American consumers have their own share of Cadillac=big prejudices). Cadillac should probably take Smart’s enthusiasm for his own concept with a grain of salt before discussing any future production plans.

Edward Niedermeyer
Edward Niedermeyer

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  • Bunkie Bunkie on Nov 30, 2010

    No. But keep the really clever and original jokes coming.

  • Bunkie Bunkie on Nov 30, 2010

    That was a response to GSlippy's question "did you ever own a Cimmaron".

  • Ajla Ajla on Nov 30, 2010

    There would be no need for these super small Cadillacs if GM owned a brand with decent European consumer equity that was known for its quirky, high-personality vehicles.

    • See 2 previous
    • Luke42 Luke42 on Dec 01, 2010

      I'd forgotten about Saab! That's a great point!

  • Plyrr72 Plyrr72 on Dec 01, 2010

    ULGH!!! Somebody KILL IT before it runs under the refrigerator!!! Is it resistant to DDT? This car looks like it should be smashed with a rolled up newspaper. If Cadillac needs a MINI fighter, they better not do it with that thing. And I thought the Sebring was ugly.

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