Cadillac has released one tantalizing final set of teaser photos before it unveils its new flagship. They look every bit as decadent as earlier shots had hinted at. They may also suggest some truth to the rumor that the Celestiq will be far more expensive than any current Cadillac.
A New Playing Field for Cadillac
The Celestiq is something Cadillac hasn’t attempted in more than a decade – a true flagship ultra-luxury sedan meant to take on plush cruisers like the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
Cadillac once called itself “The Standard of the World.” In the 1930s, it built some of the world’s most opulent cars.
But, in recent decades, it has positioned itself as a builder of luxury sport sedans and SUVs – more of a rival for BMW than for Bentley.
The Celestiq may be Cadillac’s attempt to change that image. GM has said the car will be hand-built in limited numbers at the Warren Technical Center, where GM researches future products.
The Wall Street Journal has reported that the car could wear a sticker price north of $300,000.
Earlier teasers have shown a mix of modern and classic strokes. The teasers, Cadillac says, show a “show car.” So, it’s possible that some details won’t appear in the production version.
The Celestiq is an electric vehicle (EV) built on the Ultium platform that provides the foundation for other GM EVs like the GMC Hummer and Cadillac Lyriq. That could give it up to 1,000 horsepower (the Hummer’s figure) and rear- or all-wheel drive.
The EV Age Meets the Jazz Age
The new photos give us a better look at the big car’s shape. It combines a blunt, imposing front end with a curvaceous fastback rear. Earlier shots have shown modern touches like sleek LED lights combined with hints from Cadillac history. The front fenders feature a crystal relief of a winged art deco figure that graced 1930s Cadillacs as a hood ornament.
They also give us our best look yet inside the car. Sensual deep red upholstery combines with trim that may be brushed nickel. The color scheme gives it a Jazz Age look, matched with modern touchscreens for a retro-futurist aesthetic unlike anything for sale today.
Cadillac promises a full unveiling on July 22.
