Top-End Cadillac XLS Reportedly Coming, and It'll Get a Brand-New V12

DETROIT — General Motors has given the green light to an ambitious new V12 engine project. It seems to pave the way for the introduction of a high-end Cadillac model inspired by the stunning Sixteen concept revealed to rave reviews back in 2003, according to well-placed Inside Line sources.

Exact details remain scarce, but IL has obtained information confirming that the new V12 combines two of GM's 60-degree 3.6-liter V6 engines together on a single crankshaft. The modular layout is designed to allow it to be manufactured on existing production lines. Among the features it has been conceived to carry into production later this decade are direct injection, cylinder deactivation and the very latest in exhaust-gas recirculation technology.

The range-topping sedan is set to receive the XLS name, for which GM has held the trademark for some time. It is conceived to rival the Mercedes-Benz S-Class on performance, comfort, safety and features, and is the brainchild of the company's outspoken production boss, Bob Lutz. He reportedly considers the model essential to expanding the brand's identity and providing it with a more international flavor as Cadillac seeks to gain ground in key world markets.

The new Cadillac is tentatively due to be revealed in 2009 prior to the start of North American sales the following year. The basis for the new car is a stretched version of GM's new rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform that is found beneath the new Pontiac G8 and the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro. Along with the new V12, the upmarket Cadillac is also set to receive an as-yet unspecified V8 engine.

Commenting on the V12 engine project while visiting England for the introduction of the right-hand-drive Hummer H3 late last week, Lutz said development work is ongoing at General Motors' Holden subsidiary in Australia, adding that it had been earmarked for a new Cadillac model.