The 2021 Cadillac XT7 might be the next novelty by the GM’s premium brand. The carmaker plans to expand the offer and the XT7 is one of the priorities. There are the first rumors and speculations about the SUV available already and we sorted these the most interesting and probable. Well, the XT7 will arrive sooner or later. Cadillac claimed rights for the XT2-XT8 lineup. You see an XT9 missing. That is the spot for the largest vehicle in the lineup, which will remain Escalade for some while.
This makes us wonder – where will the 2021 Cadillac XT7 slot? If it is larger than the existing XT5 and XT6, then it will be just under the flagship Escalade model. Experts have a few interesting theories. The first one is the coupe SUV. Well, Cadillac is missing this one and the segment is full of German products. On the other hand, General Motors will soon electrify their large vehicles, and the XT7 could be a hybrid or even the first all-electric model. Finally, we can add that a performance-oriented version is possible, with high outputs that will compete with BMW X5 M or Mercedes GLE AMG.
2021 Cadillac XT7 Coupe SUV
Fans and experts discuss this possibility. Cadillac is a premium carmaker that struggles in the mid-size segment. One of the ways to revive the interest in its lineup is to deliver a new, stunning model. That could be the 2021 Cadillac XT7 with a unique design. Coupe-SUV is not something new, but that is a realm not too many carmakers are ready to explore. GM needs that and this is the perfect chance to make something before its archrival, Ford. The Blue Oval company already produces hybrid, PHEV, and fully electrified crossovers and SUVs. But, there is no coupe model.
The coupe styling has many downsides. The advantages are attractive design and aerodynamic body. But, the roofline harms the interior space and cuts the third row. Even passengers in the back won’t have too much headroom. Plus, the vehicle can’t offer cargo capacity as its siblings with standard SUV styling. But, the first goal is the eye-catching styling. The exterior is the first thing you will spot on any vehicle.
2021 Cadillac XT7 Specs
There are already speculations about the drivetrains for the upcoming model. The name suggests this one will be larger than XT6, which carries only a V6 unit, and it is SUV’s major weakness. We can find info that 2021 Cadillac XT7 is getting a twin-turbo V6 configuration and a setup with a V8 engine. Interesting stories, which have sense. That means rumors about the design and size are not without foundation.
General Motors have a few V8 units to offer. For example, a 4.3-liter displacement is good for 300 hp. However, this old motor can’t meet efficiency numbers anymore, so we doubt GM will go with it. Instead, a 5.3-liter is an excellent choice. With 355 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, it can produce enough power for multiple tasks. A 6.2-liter displacement remains a part of the Escalade lineup only.
A 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 is available for the sedan lineup. There, this unit is delivering 410-420 hp and between 370-430 lb-ft of torque. Such power is more than enough for the 2021 Cadillac XT7. Finally, we can find one more interesting powertrain in the Caddie’s lineup. That is a twin-turbo V8 unit. However, this 550-hp rated motor is going to become a powertrain for the XT7 only if the company decides to go after the most powerful SUVs in the segment.
All-Electric SUV
Recently, GM announced that its electric future is now. What does it mean? The only thing we could hear about it is the comeback of the Hummer nameplate with the all-electric motor. The company is yet to confirm this rumor, but it is obvious that electrification is in progress. Most experts are sure that the first EV models will be in dealerships by 2022.
This fits plans of 2021 Cadillac XT7 launching. Such powertrain would draw a lot of attention. Also, it would be part of the premium lineup. The advanced drivetrain in combination with hi-tech features and premium interior would definitely beat the Mach E electric SUV by Ford. But, the Blue Oval carmaker has already presented their model. It is GM’s turn to respond.
Other Nameplates are Also Considered
Another portion of rumors is talking about renaming the entire Cadillac lineup. Only the famous Escalade is safe, while the whole XT and CT portfolio is about to get new badges. We found this rumor when reading about the XT5. Well, if an older brother is going to be renamed, then the XT7 could get the non-alphanumeric title. On the other hand, Caddie holds rights for all XT and CT models, and it was not easy to get them. So, giving up so easily on these is questionable.
Source: GM Authority