by Nearly twenty years have passed since the Cadillac XLR appeared, but this model still remains in the memory of car enthusiasts. Although it was not perfect, the very idea of transforming the Corvette into a luxurious flagship to compete with German cars still looks appealing.
This is especially relevant now that the Corvette has transitioned to a mid-engine layout. This makes a new version of the XLR a perfect addition to the Cadillac lineup, especially in a V-Series variant based on the 1,064 hp model.
Unfortunately, this will not happen. GM President Mark Reuss, in a comment to Automotive News, explained that a modern XLR does not fit into Cadillac’s brand strategy. It involves using shared platforms with regular models, but with unique design, interior, and other differences.
For example, the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon have much in common, but the luxury SUV is distinguished by its exclusive interior. It is equipped with a 55-inch display spanning the entire width of the dashboard and an optional Executive Second Row with a console, wireless chargers, and folding tables. A powerful Escalade-V version with a 6.2-liter engine producing 682 hp is also available.
A modern XLR, on the contrary, would be too similar to the Corvette. As Reuss noted, it was previously developed as a second model after the Corvette, but such an approach is now unacceptable.
Celestiq Prepares for Relaunch
Michael Gauthier / Carscoops
The Cadillac Celestiq was introduced in 2022, but it has yet to be seen on the roads. Production was supposed to start in December 2023, with the first deliveries expected the following year. During the preparation for launch, it was reported that the model had already found many buyers.
However, customers had to wait. Reuss explained that the company did not want to release the car until the software was perfected. The model is now being prepared for a relaunch, with the first deliveries planned by mid-year.
If the Celestiq is successful, it could give rise to a hand-assembled lineup. This opens the door for the future production of the Sollei concept.
Cadillac on the Path to Success, But Not Yet the “Standard of the World”
While other luxury brands face problems due to tariffs, Cadillac has an advantage—most of its models are produced in the USA. The Escalade is assembled in Texas, the Lyriq and Vistiq in Tennessee, and the Celestiq and Escalade IQ in Detroit. Only the XT4 is produced in Mexico.
Reuss acknowledges that Cadillac has not yet achieved the status of the “Standard of the World,” but the brand’s strategy is clear, and progress is evident.
