Isn't Cadillac GM's upscale Lexus killer? Partially true, but Cadillac's new-edge design philosophy directly targets Audi and BMW rather than conservative Lexus.
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| The Velite will also join the recently unveiled LaCrosse midsize sedan that replaces the current Regal and Century. (Photo: General Motors) |
But as enticing as the new Velite is, don't expect it to do battle with Lexus' SC 430 roadster anytime soon. According to sources within the company, Buick won't be able to bring the Zeta based convertible to market until 2007 at the earliest, as a 2008 model.
Before that a large luxury sedan will roll out on the Zeta platform, while a new Pontiac Grand Prix and GTO are scheduled for the following year. Either 2008 or 2009 will see a new rear-wheel drive Chevrolet coupe and convertible everyone hopes will be the next-generation Camaro, while a new Impala is expected in 2009. The next year an all-new Monte Carlo will be based on Holden's Zeta architecture.
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| Whereas Cadillac (shown) is now poised to do battle with Audi and BMW, GM hopes Buick will be able to compete with the more conservative Lexus brand. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, American Auto Press) |
While Zeta has been designed primarily for rear-wheel drive applications, it also features an optional all-wheel drive configuration. It also has the ability to accommodate both V6 and V8 drivetrains, and various wheelbase lengths.
Where will the new Zeta cars be built? Word has it up to 400,000 units could be produced each year, with more than 200,000 built at GM's Oshawa, Ontario, Canada facility that currently produces the Buick Century and Regal models. In 2002 a total of 215,727 units made it to the end of the Canadian plant's assembly line. The new models are expected to begin production in late 2006.