HotHatches.comGM Europe at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show
March 2010 Geneva, Switzerland: The new GM has arrived in Geneva.
Among the many GM highlights at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show was the re-launch of Cadillac in Europe with the CTS Coupe and Chevys debut of the Aveo RS Concept, which will afford European consumers a glimpse into the future of the brand in Europe.
European Debut of CTS Coupe: Cadillac Set to Compete Against German Luxury Carmakers:
Cadillac is set to re-launch in Europe with the debut of the CTS Coupe in Geneva. Though Cadillac has been among America's top-selling luxury brands for many years, the brand is now ready with exciting new vehicles to take on the European premium market, which has been dominated by German luxury carmakers.
Also on display in Geneva were the CTS Sport Sedan and the range-topping CTS-V, which are both currently on sale, and the CTS Sport Wagon, which will go on sale later this year. A redesigned SRX Crossover, which will commence sales this summer, is also on the show floor.
The all-new SRX represents the next generation of innovative, dynamic crossovers for customers of luxury vehicles. New technologies offer better drivetrain efficiency and safety, while the design expresses power and dynamics. The new SRX connects with customers of premium cars emotionally as well as rationally. Simply put, this crossover
is for people who value performance and utility.
The new SRX is designed for efficient performance, including a high-tech six-cylinder engine that is new to Cadillac. The 3.0L direct injected V6 engine employs technology that helps produce strong performance typical of larger-displacement engines. Direct injection enables a 25-percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. Fuel economy comparable with a mid-size family car is expected.
Performance and safety are enhanced by a standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. The AWD system includes an advanced electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) that distributes torque as needed from side-to-side along the rear axle, in addition from the front to rear axle. The pre-emptive, active-on-demand system provides an extra measure of capability in wet or icy conditions
The new SRX rides on a wide track that was designed to deliver a nimble, responsive
driving experience. It seats five, with generous occupant and cargo room, and can tow up to 2,000 kilograms.
Chevy Affords a Glimpse into the Future with European Debut of Aveo RS Concept
Chevrolet will give a glimpse of what customers will see in European Chevrolet show rooms in the next few years with the European premiere of the Aveo RS concept. The Aveo RS concept, which represents Chevys big step forward in the small car market, arrives with a dynamic hot hatch look, up-scale design cues, and a wide array of personalized options.
The sporty exterior and interior theme is complemented by a beefy 140 hp, 1.4-liter Ecotec turbocharged engine.
It has been five years since the Chevrolet brand was re-launched in Europe. After entering European markets with a line-up of mini, small and compact cars in early 2005, Chevrolet doubled sales to over 500,000 units and achieved a market share of 2.3 percent in 2008.
In a challenging economic climate in 2009, Chevrolet attracted new customers looking for exceptional value for money and achieved record market share results in ten European markets. 2010 will be the first full year of Chevrolet Cruze sales, and the new Chevrolet Spark city car will arrive at European dealerships as of March.
Chevrolet will launch a host of new cars that will further strengthen the brand's position in the European market. In early 2011, a new family van will be introduced, followed by the iconic Chevrolet Camaro as a coupé and a convertible. A refreshed Captiva with a set of new engines, the all-new Aveo, and a hatch version of the Cruze will all follow before the end of 2011.
As for the state of GMs business in Europe, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz is very optimistic.
Bader TV News London-based Bureau Chief Benjamin Rahr has more from the floor of the Geneva Auto Show...
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