The 2019 North American International Auto Show doesn’t kick off until January 14th, but that hasn’t stopped Cadillac President Steve Carlisle from revealing the company will introduce an all-new model in Detroit.
While it is natural to assume the vehicle would be the all-new CT5, Automotive News reports the model will likely be a three-row crossover. Expected to be called the XT6, the crossover will slot in between the smaller XT5 and the larger Escalade.
Spy photographers caught the model back in April and previous reports have suggested it will ride on the long-wheelbase version of the C1XX architecture that underpins the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse. This will enable the model to be significantly larger than the XT5 and offer room for up to seven people.
Engine options remain unconfirmed, but both the Enclave and Traverse are available with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 hp (231 kW / 314 PS) and 271 lb-ft (367 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission which can be paired to an optional all-wheel drive system.
While the various models will likely have a lot in common, the XT6 will feature unique styling inside and out. Spy photographers haven’t caught a glimpse of the interior quite yet, but exterior photos show the crossover will have a prominent grille, a rakish windscreen and a relatively flat roof. The prototype also had an upward sweeping beltline, a dual exhaust system and a tailgate-mounted rear spoiler.
Carlisle wasn’t ready to talk about the upcoming model, but he didn’t drop a few hints about the brand’s long-rumored flagship. The executive told the publication it’s “hard to say” if Cadillac needs a flagship or halo model, but noted alternative powertrains are interesting and electric vehicles offer “really good performance.”
Carlisle stopped short of confirming plans for a production model, but he suggested a halo or flagship vehicle would eschew the traditional CT and XT badging. As he explained, “special cars should have special names.”
Cadillac is playing coy on details, but General Motors has already announced plans for a “Lux Low Roof” electric vehicle that appears to be a coupe. Several months ago, images of a mysterious Cadillac coupe appeared in patent filings and the model had the same shape as an electric coupe that was teased in October.
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