August 16, 2001

IAA International Motor Show 2001

Premieres from Chevrolet and Cadillac

Frankfurt. Chevrolet and Cadillac will be presenting no less than three new models at the IAA 2001. Center stage at the stands of the two US brands will be the world premiere of the Cadillac CTS, the presentation of the new Chevrolet TrailBlazer, which celebrates its European launch in September, and the European premiere of the Chevrolet Trans Sport with all-wheel drive.

Cadillac will be entering the premium large sedan segment with the sporty and refined CTS. The five-seater with rear-wheel drive is based on a completely new platform. Its dynamic form vocabulary with bold, accented contours and characteristic Cadillac design cues like the classic grille and vertical headlamps and taillamps make the CTS an unmistakable member of the Cadillac family. The power sources are two V6 engines with 2.6 and 3.2-liter capacities and outputs of 130 kW/174 hp and 164 kW/ 220 hp. CTS buyers can choose between a manual or automatic gearbox. The car will go on sale in the spring of 2002.

The TrailBlazer continues Chevrolet's long tradition of building technically innovative and comfortable off-roaders. The core attributes of the vehicle are the high torsional stiffness of the chassis and body and an all-new 4.2-liter Vortec inline six-cylinder engine with variable valve timing. An output of 201 kW/273 hp and a maximum torque of 373 Nm at 3,500 rpm put the TrailBlazer among the premium off-roaders. The chassis matches the high level of development of the engine. The front axle is distinguished by independent wheel suspension and dual A-arms, while the rear features a solid axle precisely controlled by four trailing links, a panhard rod. It is connected to the chassis with coil springs. When maximum traction is required, Autotrac all-wheel drive can be activated at the touch of a button while driving.

The 2002 edition of Chevrolet's Trans Sport minivan will also be available with all-wheel drive for the first time. The Versatrak system ensures a maximum of comfort. On high-grip asphalt surfaces, the Trans Sport runs on front-wheel drive. If wheel slippage is detected at the front, the rear-wheels are automatically activated without manual intervention. Further highlights at the Chevrolet stand is the Corvette C5-R, which triumphed in the GTS class at the 2001 run of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Also on show in Frankfurt is Cadillac's Vizón concept, a synthesis of Sport Utility Vehicle and wagon. A 305 hp Northstar V8 engine with a 4.6-liter capacity ensures the expected level of power.