by KGP Photography

(2006-04-24)

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SEE MORE CTS SHOTS: 2008 Cadillac CTS

Cadillac is poised to unleash a significantly more dramatic interpretation of its "Art & Science" design language when the 2008 CTS hits the market. 

The CTS's new look was unveiled in part by Bob Lutz on CBS's 60 Minutes, as he pulled back a car cover, exposing a dramatic Cadillac grille and headlight cluster to reporter Steve Kroft: "Unfortunately this is a car that I'd like to be able to show you, but for competitive reasons we can't show it all. I'll just show you some of the, some of the advanced work that we're doing on grilles - that this is obviously a Cadillac, no concealing that," Lutz said, giving Kroft a peek.

"Would you have to kill me if I just took this thing and ripped it right out?" Kroft asked.

"I would not be pleased with you," Lutz replied.

The exchange stopped there, leaving enthusiasts to wonder more about the car beneath that cover.

Many speculated that it could be the CTS, but no one was sure - until now. These first shots of a second-generation CTS prototype leave no doubt that the 60 Minutes car was the 2008 CTS. Seeing the entire car in the "flesh," from a number of angles, coupled with the 60 Minutes preview - assures that the next CTS will be a real visual stunner.  

The steeply raked windshield and backlight give the car a coupe-like feel, with a stout, powerful stance. More pronounced wheel arches merge with a sharply chiseled waistline, giving the new car a lot of "edge," both literally and figuratively. The ground effects, character lines, and trim have been simplified for a cleaner, less cluttered look than today's CTS.  Some elements of the '08 CTS's design seem evolutionary, while other design touches border on revolutionary for GM's top brand.

Our partial interior shot shows a similarly clean interior theme - less blocky than today's car. The CTS's interior has always been considered one of its chief shortcomings, but the sleek armrest design and handsome wood accents seen on this prototype suggest that the passenger environment will be improved considerably. -KGP Photography

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