STEINMETZ CATERA CONCEPT —
EXPLORING THE PERFORMANCE POTENTIAL OF CADILLAC‘S
ENTRY-LUXURY SEDAN

CHICAGO — Working with a proven European aftermarket outfitter, Cadillac takes its entry-luxury sedan to an even higher level of fun and performance with the Steinmetz Catera concept vehicle.

Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, the concept car features a host of performance and styling accessories from German-based customizer Steinmetz Opel-Tuning, including a supercharger package that adds an impressive 84 more horsepower to Catera’s standard 200-hp, 3.0-liter dual-overhead-cam V6 engine.

"The Steinmetz Catera is a stretch exercise, created in the spirit of other European prestige makes that explore the limits of performance," said Jay Spenchian, Catera brand manager.

"Steinmetz has brought a distinctive attitude to this Catera," adds Spenchian. "True to its reputation for injecting higher performance into Opel vehicles, Steinmetz started with Catera’s exceptional ride, handling and control and turned up the power and excitement levels another notch. The result is a car that tests how far we can take Catera in the performance arena."

The engine kit includes a Steinmetz supercharger, intercooler, stainless steel exhaust system and large air filter. In addition to the increase in horsepower, the torque rating climbs to 273 ft.-lb. (370 Nm) at 5200 rpm, 81 ft.-lb. more than the standard Catera engine.

Ride and handling has been enhanced by several Steinmetz components consisting of competition-caliber springs, struts, sway bars and beefier front brakes and rear shocks. The vehicle is also equipped with Steinmetz’s signature modular aluminum wheels and massive, 18-inch Z-rated Continental Sport tires.

"The Steinmetz Catera’s accessories not only contribute to an edgy look, but they also enhance the car’s performance characteristics. For example, the ground effects improve aerodynamics, while the leather sport seats provide the support you want in a serious all-out sports sedan," Spenchian said.

The concept vehicle sports an eye-catching Orange Fire paint scheme from PPG. The technically sophisticated four-stage paint process is specially formulated to "travel" from light to darker values, depending on the proximity and intensity.

Visually, the Steinmetz ground effects package is a dramatic departure from the exterior appearance of the standard Catera. The package includes a lower front grille and spoiler that flow smoothly into the side rocker and rear skirt treatments. Steinmetz sport mirrors and a large fuel filler cap complete the look.

The business-like cockpit conveys a premium high-tech feel with leather and brushed aluminum accessories. Other appointments include a three-spoke steering wheel, electrically adjustable black leather seats, leather covers for the shifter and hand parking brake, door step plates, floor mats and an aluminum pedal set.

"The Steinmetz Catera explores technology and the performance potential of Catera in the spirit and direction of future Cadillacs," Spenchian said. "At the same time it allows us to gather valuable consumer feedback and test the marketplace acceptance for taking Catera in this new direction."