16.8.2001
Premieres from Chevrolet and Cadillac at Frankfurt
Motor Show
Cadillac will be entering the premium large sedan segment with the sporty
and refined CTS. The five-seater with rear-wheel drive is based on a completely
new platform. Its dynamic form vocabulary with bold, accented contours
and characteristic Cadillac design cues like the classic grille and vertical
headlamps and taillamps make the CTS an unmistakable member of the Cadillac
family. The power sources are two V6 engines with 2.6 and 3.2-liter capacities
and outputs of 130 kW/174 hp and 164 kW/ 220 hp. CTS buyers can choose
between a manual or automatic gearbox. The car will go on sale in the
spring of 2002.
The TrailBlazer continues Chevrolet's long tradition of building
technically innovative and comfortable off-roaders. The core attributes
of the vehicle are the high torsional stiffness of the chassis and body
and an all-new 4.2-liter Vortec inline six-cylinder engine with variable
valve timing. An output of 201 kW/273 hp and a maximum torque of 373 Nm
at 3,500 rpm put the TrailBlazer among the premium off-roaders. The chassis
matches the high level of development of the engine. The front axle is
distinguished by independent wheel suspension and dual A-arms, while the
rear features a solid axle precisely controlled by four trailing links,
a
panhard rod. It is connected to the chassis with coil springs. When maximum
traction is required, Autotrac all-wheel drive can be activated at the
touch of a button while driving.
The 2002 edition of Chevrolet's Trans Sport minivan will also be
available with all-wheel drive for the first time. The Versatrak system
ensures a maximum of comfort. On high-grip asphalt surfaces, the Trans
Sport runs on front-wheel drive. If wheel slippage is detected at the
front, the rear-wheels are automatically activated without manual intervention.
Further highlights at the Chevrolet stand is the Corvette C5-R, which
triumphed in the GTS class at the 2001 run of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Also on show in Frankfurt is Cadillac's Vizón concept, a synthesis
of Sport Utility Vehicle and wagon. A 305 hp Northstar V8 engine with
a
4.6-liter capacity ensures the expected level of power.