Cadillac XTS in Running to Replace Lincoln Town Car

2013 Cadillac XTS

It’s New Year’s Eve, and many party-goers will celebrate by riding in the back of a hired limousine. However, with the end of the Lincoln Town Car, many other cars, including the Cadillac XTS, are looking for ways to enter the livery market.

The Detroit News recently interviewed Gary Kessler, CEO of Cary International, the world’s largest livery company, to get his take on the transition. While Kessler said his fleet is still composed of 85% Lincoln Town Cars, replacing the older models is going to fuel the need for new alternatives.

According to Kessler, “We’re clearly at a watershed event. There isn’t a clear replacement for the Town Car. But the more people who are in this space, the more that is going to raise the bar on the vehicles from which we can choose.”

To be one the choices in the running, General Motors’ Professional Vehicles division is introducing a new livery package for the Cadillac XTS, GM’s new flagship sedan. The Cadillac XTS livery package will offer the Cadillac CUE system for navigation, power inverters for charging and using multiple mobile devices, window shades, and heated rear seats. Instead of paring down the amenities as is typically done for fleet vehicles, the XTS liver package will borrow from the Platinum Edition, leaving drivers and passengers wanting for nothing.

Cadillac spokesperson David Caldwell said, “We do see opportunity for Cadillac to grow in this space, and we’re pursuing it in a way that’s parallel to our overall growth as we elevate and expand our brand. The experience inside a Cadillac will reach the same standard in the livery environment as for an individual retail buyer.”

To see the luxury of the 2013 Cadillac XTS for yourself, visit Don Ledford Automotive Center in Cleveland. Our sales team will happily answer any questions about the XTS and any other Cadillac, including features, pricing and availability. Browse our inventory online, visit our Chattanooga area dealership, or call 423-476-1191 for assistance.

Thank you for a great 2012, and we look forward to serving you in 2013!

Cadillac ATS on List of 10 Best Engines

Cadillac ATS engine, © General Motors

The 2013 Ward’s 10 Best Engines awards have been announced, and the turbocharged 2.0L I-4 that propels the new Cadillac ATS claimed a spot on the list.

Ward’s 10 Best Engines honors traditional gas engines at a time when fuel efficiency regulations make the competition among them tougher and add pressure from hybrids and plug-ins. They considered 40 engines from 16 different car makers, and selected winners based on factors like refinement, fuel efficiency, innovation, and power. For the second year, half of the engines are four-cylinder, while only 7 years ago, the four-cylinder engine wasn’t even mentioned.

The 2.0L turbocharged engine in the Cadillac ATS is boasts the highest output of any GM production engine, with 272 horsepower, or 136 horsepower per liter. The aerodynamic design and lighter weight of the ATS also help give it a zero-60 time of 5.9 seconds and estimated fuel economy of 21/31 city/highway mpg.

Other impressive features of the engine in the Cadillac ATS include the twin-scroll turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler, jet-spray piston cooling in the two-stage variable displacement oil pump, four valves per cylinder with continuously variable timing, and the forged-steel crankshaft with modular balance shaft system.

According to Tom Murphy, executive editor of WardsAuto.com, “The 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder is a stout performer that impressed all the WardsAuto editors. It muscled its way back into the winners’ circle with remarkable horsepower per liter, and the engineers deserve kudos for reducing engine friction some 16 percent, which means it runs smoother and more efficiently.”

While the 2.0L four-cylinder was the award winner, the Cadillac ATS is also offered with a standard 2.5L four-cylinder and an available 3.6L V6. For questions about pricing and availability of the Cadillac ATS and its options, call Don Ledford Automotive in Cleveland at 423-476-1191. We also invite you to stop by our dealership, just a short drive from Chattanooga, for a test drive of the ATS or any other quality GM vehicle.

2013 Cadillac ATS Reviewed for Chattanooga Drivers

2013 Cadillac ATS (production photo)

What’s so special about the Cadillac ATS? Just ask Chattanooga’s own Mark Kennedy of the Times Free Press, who recently took one for a spin.

In his column, Kennedy referenced the new Cadillac ad campaign, “Cadillac ATS vs. the World”, in which the ATS is shown conquering a variety of scenic terrain in exotic places like Monaco, Morocco, Chile and China. How did he think the ATS faired against “the World” and the car’s closest competitors?

Very well, it would seem. Kennedy wrote that the generous use of the Cadillac logo on most available surfaces helped him remember he was in a Cadillac, not the Audi A4 or BMW 335i – high praise considering that’s the very market they would like to corner.

Other highlights of the Times Free Press review include the opinion that the ATS is “a true driver’s car” that “let out an affirming roar and barreled through curves” and “was a blast to drive”. Standout features include “firm and supportive” leather seats, steering with “crisp handling and plenty of feedback”, and an interior with “thoughtful design elements”.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS is available in Standard, Luxury, Performance and Premium trim levels. The standard ATS is equipped with a four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available, as well as a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a V6 option. Manual and automatic transmissions are also available, depending upon trim level. Other available features in the 2013 Cadillac ATS include Bluetooth capabilities, Bose stereo system, auxiliary and USB inputs, and the Cadillac CUE infotainment system.

The bottom line of Mr. Kennedy’s review: “Time will tell if the ATS can duke it out with sports-sedan segment leaders. But give GM credit for giving this baby Caddy enough athleticism and refinement to at least give it a fighting chance.”

But don’t just take his word for it. Contact Don Leford Automotive Center or browse our inventory online to schedule a test drive of a new Cadillac, Buick, GMC or Chevrolet. We are happy to help drivers in Cleveland and Chattanooga choose the perfect new car for their needs.

Kelley Blue Book Praises Cadillac CTS for Affordable Luxury

2012 Cadillac CTS – KBB Best Luxury Cars Under $40,000

Kelley Blue Book recently released their list of 10 Best Luxury Cars Under $40,000, and the 2012 Cadillac CTS was ranked near the top of the list.

Hailing the 2012 Cadillac CTS as the start of “a design revolution at GM’s luxury division that continues to this day,” KBB called the CTS a worthy opponent for any Japanese or European competitor.

The 2012 Cadillac CTS is offered in mid-sized sedan, coupe and wagon models. All feature comfortable seats, a quiet cabin, and a balanced suspension that all work together to provide the ultimate in smooth rides. But to prove that smooth is far from boring, the CTS also offers enhanced performance, with the CTS-V sedan posting a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds.

Technology was the stand-out favorite area of the CTS for KBB reviewers, who praised the Bose 5.1 cabin surround sound system and the car’s navigation system. The audio system offers iPod or other MP3 device integration from a USB port, but is also equipped with its own 40-gig hard drive for music storage. The “feature-packed” navigation system of the 2012 CTS has an 8-inch touch screen and offers 3-D imaging, voice recognition, and real-time weather and traffic reports.

Standard features of the 2012 Cadillac CTS include a 3.0L V6 engine offering 270 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. There is also an optional 3.6L V6 engine that boosts the horsepower of the CTS to 318, and the CTS-V high-performance variant gets a supercharged V8 with 556 horsepower and manual or automatic transmission options. For safety, the CTS is equipped with six airbags, auto on-off headlamps, anti-theft system, traction and stability control, daytime running lights, and OnStar services.

Kelley Blue Book called the Cadillac CTS “a legitimate BMS 5-Series competitor at a 3-Series price.” To experience the luxury of the Cadillac CTS, test drive the 2013 model at Don Ledford Automotive Center in Cleveland. The 2013 model year added new paint colors, minor exterior tweaks, and some additional available options, but the superior style and performance remain the same. We also offer a large selection of Buick, GMC and Chevrolet vehicles, so Don Ledford Automotive Center is sure to have the perfect vehicle for the needs and budget of any driver in the Chattanooga area!

2013 Cadillac Sedans Lead Luxury Class With All-Wheel Drive

2013 Cadillac XTS

With the release of the 2013 ATS and XTS, Cadillac is staging an impressive comeback in the luxury sedan class. One thing that puts them ahead of the game is their incorporation of all-wheel drive options into their new models.

In recent history, luxury sedans have been defined by a big, powerful engine pushing power to the rear wheels. Lately, however, almost half of luxury cars sold in colder areas of the United States are all-wheel drive, and sales are up by as much as 10% even in less snowy states.

Auto industry executives are forming the conclusion that all-wheel drive technology is the latest trend in the U.S. luxury car market.

Jim Vurpillat, global marketing director for General Motors Co.’s Cadillac brand, says “It’s not even a debate.” He believes that soon more car buyers will only seriously view a sedan as a luxury model if all-wheel drive is an available option. For that reason, Cadillac offers the technology in the new compact ATS, the large XTS, and the midsize CTS sedan.

Automotive industry supplier BorgWarner, which sells technology to Cadillac and other luxury brands, predicts the use of all-wheel-drive systems in luxury sedans will increase by around 8% each year through 2017.

Many believe all-wheel drive enhances the performance of the car, an idea supported by Audi Quattro and other similar systems. Instead of sending constant, equal power to all four wheels, the system continually shifts power distribution in response to data from the brakes, steering or other systems. Sending a small power boost to the tires on one side can help the vehicle more smoothly through turns even in dry conditions. Giving power to all four wheels can also boost acceleration.

One drawback of all-wheel drive technology has been the weight the system adds to the car, and the resulting drag on fuel economy. Director of product strategy for BorgWarner Corp.’s all-wheel-drive-technology business, John Barlage, says this can be reduced by use of improved electronics, substitution of lightweight aluminum for steel parts, and new designs that altogether eliminate old components.

To test drive a new 2013 Cadillac CTS or XTS and experience the all-wheel drive difference, or to learn about any of our other quality Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet or GMC vehicles in inventory, call or visit Don Ledford Automotive Center. Expert sales associates are always happy to help you find the perfect car for your needs. You can also follow on Facebook and Twitter for the latest product updates and dealership news.

General Motors Green Initiatives Grow Cadillac Urban Garden

Cadillac Urban Gardens, copyright General Motors

General Motors recently unveiled a new project that offers many environmental and community benefits.

The Cadillac Urban Gardens is a community project that uses discarded GM materials and barren urban space to create a garden that can build community ties and feed the people who live there.

250 shipping creates from the General Motors Orion Assembly, where the Buick Verano and Chevrolet Sonic are assembled, were used to build raised garden beds in what was an unused Detroit parking lot.

“Instead of recycling this material, we found a direct reuse, which saves energy and resources. We seek opportunities for projects in our backyard that reduce environmental impact and strengthen communities,” said John Bradburn, GM’s manager of waste reduction efforts.

Several other Detroit businesses made the garden possible, including eight-time GM Supplier of the Year Winner, Ideal Group. “Our mission is to create a space that promotes the health and security of our community,” said Frank Venegas, Ideal Group chairman. “Cadillac Urban Gardens is producing vegetables, community health and growth.  This vision came true with fast action on the part of our collaborative partners.  In four short months, we are well on our way to linking sustainability with producing community growth.”

Detroit Dirt helped plan the garden and provided the soil obtained from composting efforts of many other organizations, including food and scraps from GM Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant, where the Chevrolet Volt is assembled. Many other companies offered time, services, and materials to make the project possible.

Don Ledford Automotive Center is proud to be affiliated with a company that seeks to preserve the global environment while supporting their local community. We invite you to experience the quality of the General Motors brand for yourself by browsing our inventory of Cadillac, Buick, Chevrolet and GMC vehicles online, or visiting our dealership in Cleveland, Tennessee for a test drive. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more GM news and product updates.

Cadillac ATS Takes on the World During the Olympics

2013 Cadillac ATS (pre-production photo)

General Motors’ advertising strategy has been a topic of media conversation lately, but results of their “Cadillac ATS vs. the World” campaign confirm that they made at least one right choice.

The new campaign for the Cadillac ATS launched during the opening ceremonies of the 2012 Olympics on Friday, July 27, and ran throughout that weekend. Reputed to be the General Motors answer to the BMW 3-Series, the new Cadillac ATS chose a huge stage on which to boldly throw down the gauntlet, especially considering that BMW was an official Olympic sponsor and featured its own Olympic-themed ad campaign.

It seems to have worked, at least in generating interest. The first airing of the 60-second “Cadillac ATS vs. the World” spot boosted shopping for the car on Edmunds.com by 351%. The shorter spots from the campaign that ran over the course of the weekend caused shopping for the ATS to jump up 474% by Monday.

Directed by Academy Award-nominated documentary film makers, the ATS ads show the car in exotic locations like the streets of Monaco, the deserts of Morocco, the Guoliang Tunnels of China, and Patagonia, Chile. According to Molly Peck, Cadillac director of advertising, “It was not lost on us that we were launching the Cadillac ATS, developed to take on the world’s best sport sedans, on the Olympic world stage. We designed a global challenge to dramatically demonstrate the car’s all-new purpose-built chassis and advanced technology in a global, cinematic adventure.”

The need for the ATS is undeniable by most accounts, since recent Cadillac offerings are all mid-sized or full-sized cars, and the compact class is actually the biggest seller worldwide for luxury nameplates. With a body that is 182.3 inches long on a wheelbase 109.3, the ATS matches the 3-Series almost inch for inch, and is close in dimensions to the Mercedes C-class, the Lexus IS and the Audi A4. It weighs less than almost every other compact luxury car, and is 545 pounds lighter than the Cadillac CTS, as well as nine inches shorter.

For more information about the Cadillac ATS, or to test drive any other quality General Motors vehicle in our inventory, visit Don Ledford Automotive Center in Cleveland today. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates on the 2013 Cadillac ATS and other exciting news.

The Cadillac XTS Arrives in Cleveland, TN

Cadillac XTS at Don Ledford Automotive Center

Don Ledford Automotive Center unveiled the 2013 Cadillac XTS to a crowd of eager viewers in Cleveland, Tennessee this week. While the recent buzz at Don Ledford has been their new facility and the official addition of Chevrolet to their lineup, the arrival of the XTS drew quite the crowd.

The 2013 Cadillac XTS perfectly blends technology, refinement, and modern styling to make it strong competition for luxury imports. It is smaller and more affordable than most full-sized luxury sedans, but longer than most mid-sized competitors, so it offers space and comfort to bridge the gap between the two classes.

The Cadillac XTS features Magnetic Ride Control Suspension, which until now has been used only in high-end sports cars. This GM-exclusive suspension makes 1,000 dampening adjustments every second, allowing a smooth ride over rough terrain. The conventional hydraulic-assisted steering system is precise and responsive. The surprisingly fast 304hp V6 engine powers the car almost silently, thanks to sound insulation and active noise cancelling systems to the cabin.

The 2013 Cadillac XTS is loaded with technology, including the new Cadillac CUE infotainment system with voice recognition, and GM OnStar services. Available options include full-color head-up dash display, as well as the Driver Awareness Package, which includes lane departure, cross traffic, blind spot, and collision alerts.

For more information about the 2013 Cadillac XTS, visit Don Ledford Automotive Center online or in person, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more exciting updates from Cadillac and other GM brands.

Don Ledford Automotive Offers Cleveland Buyers a First Look at the Cadillac CUE System

2013 Cadillac XTS (Available Spring 2012. Preproduction model shown. Actual model may vary.)

Don Ledford Automotive is pleased to announce the arrival of the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system in several on Cadillac’s newest models.  The Cadillac CUE system offers a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that combines intuitive design with innovative controls and commands for entertainment and information.  The full list of the CUE system’s features is astonishing.

The heart of CUE is an 8-inch LCD touch screen, but CUE also features an available 12.3-inch LCD gauge cluster that can be customized into one of four possible screen layouts.  The lay outs in the gauge cluster can display a variety of vehicle data, including: fuel levels, speed, navigation, and phone and entertainment information.

Controlling the CUE’s touch screen is made easy through Cadillac’s innovative technology, applying the touch screen feel common in smartphones and tablets.

CUE is able to access every contact and song on up to 10 Bluetooth enabled to devices, and drivers are able to set up to 60 favorites from radio stations and phone numbers, to addresses and vehicle commands.  CUE also has a 3-D GPS Navigation system with map-integrated Doppler weather reports and features Natural Voice Recognition, which allows the driver to speak naturally and makes interaction with the system simple and effortless.

Safety has always been a priority of Cadillac’s and this effort is heightened with the CUE system.  CUE offers many features that allow drivers to keep their eyes on the road, and off their other devices.  CUE automatically cumulates music from all devices into a single list so that drivers are able to access it by speaking a simple song command.  CUE is also able to keep Cadillac drivers safely in the know by reading their text message to them through the sound system.  OnStar emergency response is also standard for one year with the CUE system.

For more information on the CUE system, visit Don Ledford Automotive today, in person or online, and follow us on Facebook for latest Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac news.