Cadillac Ciel wows the crowd in Carmel, California

The Cadillac Ciel made a major impression on all in attendance at the unveiling on Thursday, August 18th. After showing the ELR Hybrid concept, basically a slightly redone Converj, at the Tehama Golf Club in Carmel, CA, jaws dropped as the Ciel was driven to the main display area. Cadillac hosted a delicious dinner to match the introduction

The Ciel, which is French for “sky” or as Pretty Navigator said as in, “Sky is the limit”, is a lateral step taking modern technology and features to a classic motoring level going back to the early 60s or even the 1930s. It’s a modern throwback to the elegant days of motoring in a large car, enjoying the cruise. It’s all about the style, it doesn’t matter how fast it is. It’s a timeless classic. Expected to be on display in front of The Lodge tomorrow at the Concours D’elegance, it’s a must-see.

The Ciel is a 4-door convertible with rear suicide doors and a superb technology interface for the passengers. Its wheelbase is 125”, 5” longer than a Chrysler 300C/Dodge Charger and with a length of 203”, only 3” longer than the Charger which makes it very large. It’s powered by a twin-turbo V-6 making 425 horsepower. That horsepower is very nice, but nothing crazy for a big car, just right, actually. The lines are show stopping, an instant classic. This is the kind of car that will be in the field at a D’elegance in 50 or 100 years. The BMW Z-8 also comes to mind as sportier instant classic that also will eventually sit on the lawn as well.

Numerous features include ultra-modern digital display, sloping bolsters on the seats for easier ingress, power assisted transmission shifter, LED ambient lighting, zippers in the doors, even pull-out blankets for the three passengers.

Definitely not an extension of the “Transformer” styling of the CTS Coupe, a big congratulations must go to General Motors Vice President Global Design Ed Welburn and Cadillac Global Design Director Clay Dean. As interesting as what they talked about, they really didn’t have to say a word. The Ciel speaks volumes.
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