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Cadillac For 2000 |
By Carey Russ |
Cadillac intends to be a leader in automotive technology, not just in the U.S., but worldwide. The company's "Northstar System" powertrain is a state-of-the-art engine system, and has important enhancements for 2000. Cadillac has pioneered driver-aid communications with "OnStar", and stability control with "Stabilitrak". 2000 sees Night Vision in an all-new DeVille.
DeVille
The DeVille has been the best-selling luxury car in the country for the past 14 years, so Cadillac could have chosen a conservative redesign for 2000. Not a chance. Only the name is the same, and with the first automotive application of infrared-based thermal imaging for the "Night Vision" system and LED (light-emitting diode) taillights, the new DeVille is Cadillac's technological leader. It's slightly smaller than last year's version outside, but a longer wheelbase means just as much room inside, and it is new from the ground up. It's now built on the same platform as the Seville. It's more rigid for even quieter operation, and better handling. Handling? In a DeVille? Believe it -- there's now a DeVille Touring Sedan (DTS) in the same mold as the Seville STS, as well as more traditional models. All are powered by the newest versions of the 4.6-liter Northstar V8, which now run on regular instead of premium gasoline.
Catera
The compact Catera has freshened styling for 2000. Most body panels have been subtly restyled for a more well-defined look, and LED taillights are featured. The interior has also been redesigned. The Catera Sport, introduced in mid-1999, has the same new styling as other models and appearance and performance upgrades as well.
Seville
All-new two years ago, the Seville enters the new year with the same upgraded Northstar V8 as the DeVille and new options including a navigation system and ultrasonic parking assistance.
Escalade
Cadillac's sport-utility was last year's star and enters it sophomore year with few changes.
Eldorado
The regular Eldorado has been renamed Eldorado Sport Coupe, or ESC. It and the Eldorado Touring Coupe (ETC) have the newest Northstar engine. The ETC's monochrome exterior has minor trim revisions.
