Although, sales were up for the first
time in years, Cadillac still needed something to rival their American
counterparts, the first ever Cadillac sports utility vehicle was now
available and making headlines throughout the states.
Four years earlier, General Motors made the comment that Cadillac was not
in the sport utility or truck business, eating their words and taking
advantage of the rising sport utility market, which had grown nearly 300%
over the last four years, Cadillac introduced the Escalade, a rear wheel
drive, roomy version based on the GMC Suburban platform.
Cadillac’s spring into un-chartered territory was somewhat a risk,
however, their idea to put luxury and prestige into the truck and utility
vehicle marketplace would pay off in the long run.
Another popular Cadillac name, the Seville, received a boost, as well. The
all new redesigned 1998 Seville was now marketed as a global luxury sedan,
available in 40 countries. Unlike previous years where the Seville’s adjustments
mirrored those of the Cadillac Eldorado, the Seville was now making its way onto
the roadway as an individually unique concept vehicle.
The prestigious luxury sedan and the Seville Touring Sedan were the featured
line-ups at automobile shows around the world. The sleek SLS offered drivers a
unique experience powered with the 275 horsepower version of the Northstar 4.6
V-8, while the STS luxury large ride offered drivers a 300 horse power version
of the Northstar V-8, as well; the driver of the STS was equipped with
performance shifting abilities.
The only 1998 Cadillac V-6, the Catera, received several upgrades as well this year. A new anti-braking system, as well as a new traction control system was added to this entry level mid size luxury sedan. The addition of three new exterior colors was also available to buyers, as well as standardized OnStar capabilities.
