Cadillac is Cruzin' for a Sub-ATS CLA Rival

Michael Accardi
by Michael Accardi

Based on internal platform codes, sources are telling us Cadillac is working on a Delta-based Mercedes CLA rival.

General Motors has spent significant time and effort refining the Delta platform – as noted in our Cruze review, this platform is well worthy of premiums above the Cruze’s $17, 495 MSRP.

Based on what sources are sending our way, it looks like General Motors is planning exactly that, a premium vehicle based on the new D2XX platform.

The internal program code D2JL has shown up inside the Renaissance Center – “D” indicating Delta, “2” indicating evolution or generation number, “J” indicating hatch and “L” indicating Cadillac.

It’s unclear, however, if the hatch is planned with traditional hatchback proportions, or more of a liftback style, like the new Volt.

We were told GM believes they can get a $6,000-9,000 premium for the Cadillac versus the D2XX Cruze.

Another source tells us the cute Caddy is likely to show up with a turbocharged 1.5-liter as the volume engine, with the turbo 2.0-liter doing duty in the upper trims. Both motors are expected to make use of an 8-speed automatic, with a manual being unlikely.

No time frame was given, stay tuned…

This article was originally posted on GMInsideNews

Michael Accardi
Michael Accardi

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  • Tedward Tedward on Apr 28, 2016

    I'm evolving on this just reading my email feed of the comments. I actually think it's a good thing gm is doing this. This new super hot c transverse segment is finally being accepted in the us market. Ford and vw look like they'll be selling their entries at premium price points plus dealer markup for the foreseeable future. Audi and Mercedes seem to be doing well with theirs, even the not hot versions. If gm doesn't enter the fray quickly they'll be forever playing catch up, just like merc is right now with the cla in terms of packaging and refinement. This is also a product for at least three, potentially 4 brands. The cruze should start thinking about a r/rs competitor. The next verano would use a version for its top trim level, opel's need demands no explanation and Cadillac could both a3 and s3 equivalents. Isn't it a good thing that gm is jumping on a new segment? I might not want one as much as a next generation ats, but it's not wrong headed.

  • JimInRadfordVA JimInRadfordVA on Apr 28, 2016

    I smell Cimmaron!

  • Mr. Orange Mr. Orange on Apr 28, 2016

    This is the only site, I've seen, that hasn't updated the story stating Cadillacs complete denial of this car in development. Now why is the automatic assumption that a car will be on this platform and not a compact SUV.

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