A New Standard for Limousines

The biggest Cadillac sedan is about to get even bigger as the
Finally! Caddy gets back into the limo business. (Photo: General Motors)
brand prepares to launch a stretched version of its DTS sedan called the DTS-L. A late-comer to the segment, its 2007 model-year introduction comes as no surprise given the sudden introduction of the long-wheelbase Chrysler 300 into this segment. Cadillac's entry should give both the Chrysler and the segment-dominating Lincoln Town Car a run for their money; the Town Car for refinement and technology; the 300 for ultimate comfort and luxury, not to mention prestige.

Cadillac
Extra room is nice, but the real interesting bit is the thick rear pillar, which hides the faces of those in back. (Photo: General Motors)
has taken a different route in elongating the DTS' chassis. As no official information has been released yet, much of this info is speculated. The long wheelbase version looks to be stretched by eight  or nine inches (20 to 23 cm), but it doesn't show up in the frames of the doors as with most long wheelbase cars. Unlike the 300 LWB, Cadillac's Chinese-market long wheelbase SLS, or just about any other LWB car, the extension comes behind the rear doors, and around the C-pillar. The enlarged rear pillar keeps the heads of rear-seat occupants out of view from the prying eyes of the outside world. It should also make armoured-car versions of the stretched DTS an easier conversion, since there's less side glass.

From the looks of the photo, the DTS-L doesn't seem to have much by
More info will be announced closer to the LA show. (Photo: General Motors)
the way of special features for occupants in back. Customers should have the ability to upgrade the rear seats to include heating, power-adjustable headrests and four-way rear lumbar supports; such are available upgrades in the Luxury III package for the standard DTS. Separate controls for heating and cooling should also make an appearance.

Power will most likely be sourced from the lower-output version of the 4.6-litre Northstar V8 engine found in the regular DTS. Though it makes 13 less horsepower than the DTS Performance engine, it features more torque produced at fewer RPM - conducive to a luxury limousine ride. The DTS-L will feature a four-speed automatic transmission that is linked to the front wheels;
A stretched DTS: just what the doctor ordered. (Photo: General Motors)
the only factory-made "limo" to feature this drivetrain configuration. We'll be sure to fill in the details about the particulars of this car when more information becomes available.

Alongside the DTS-L, General Motors will have a whole host of other new debuts at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show coming up later this month. World premieres include the production version of the Buick Enclave, the next-generation Opel-based Saturn VUE, and the upcoming Aura Green Line hybrid. In terms of concepts and showcase vehicles, the Equinox Fuel Cell Vehicle, Chevrolet Sequel and Hummer HO 2 Design Concepts will be shown, as will a variety of special-edition vehicles from Saab and Cadillac. Sounds like GM's stand will be packed.