At the time, we learned that the Omega platform would be used initially for two new sedans, one to replace the Cadillac XTS and the other to serve as a true flagship for the Cadillac brand.
One of these sedans, the XTS replacement, is already in the works and is expected to be launched in late 2015 or early the following year.
The second sedan, the true flagship, looks to have been put on hold.
Automotive News (subscription required), citing inside sources, reports that General Motors Company [NYSE:GM] has chosen to err on the side of caution by dropping plans for the true flagship, concluding that a $100k-plus mega sedan would likely fail to sufficiently help with brand building to justify its development cost.
One of the sources also said a second high-end Cadillac sedan wasn’t enough of a departure from the XTS replacement, but alternatives were being looked. One of these could be a flagship coupe or convertible.
The XTS replacement will now serve as Cadillac’s flagship, targeting the likes of the BMW 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz S Class with distinct American styling and plenty of technology. Powerful engines and rear-wheel drive will also be hallmarks.
With the XTS proving popular with Cadillac’s traditional older buyers, as well as in the livery business, there’s a strong chance the front-wheel-drive sedan will stay for a few more years and perhaps even spawn a direct successor.
Pictured above is Cadillac’s Ciel concept of 2011, which has already influenced the styling of the brand’s latest models and was said to be a preview of the true flagship.
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