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Old 07-21-2008, 11:56 AM   #59 (permalink)
mgescuro
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Re: AN Comment: Cadillac Should Pull Out Of Europe; 07 Sales In 28 Countries Just 3K

Quote:
Originally Posted by t-rex View Post
While I applaud GM's confidence in believing in could succeed in Europe, it failed miserably in accounting for European taste.

Bravada's right though. Cadillac's only hope in Europe is selling small-volume glitzy luxobarges, since there's no other company (Chrysler excepted) selling cars like that in Europe. And if that's going to be the case, let private importers bother selling them instead of setting up a GM sales operation.
I disagree.
Cadillac needs to stick to what it is. Luxo barges, though that is what Cadillac is known for, will not sell in Europe because they are luxo barges. Who'd want it?

Cadillac needs to build a competent American luxury car, that not only distinguishes itself as American, but has the luxury AND technology to compete with the European marques.

The key is to offer an alternative to a European marque while not compromising on the key details that Europeans enjoy. Why would a European want to buy an American luxury car, if it is seen as a step down? Might as well buy a domestic, right?

The problem is, Cadillac has no focus. Cadillac's best attempt isn't nearly good enough to compete with the Europeans. It lacks design aethetics, has less room, has less technology, has inferior materials, has horrible ergonomics, poor build quality, and doesn't have the features available to the Europeans.

The reason why Cadillac doesn't do well in Europe is exacerbated by the fact that they still make second rate luxury cars!!!

Cadillac simply needs to do better than attempting to sell a Chevy with leather and putting a wreath and crest on it.
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