Mysterious 2011 Cadillac Sedan To Offer Four-Cylinder Engine

Automotive News is reporting that Cadillac is considering a small rear-wheel-drive sedan powered by a four-cylinder engine for the American market. The car could tentatively arrive in mid-2010 as a 2011 model, but the idea of a little gas-sipper Caddy has at least one high-ranking detractor standing in the way: Jim Taylor, Cadillac General Manager. Taylor reportedly said, "There is a big debate as to whether it is four [cylinders] only. I think that is a bridge too far." In fact, Taylor seems to think that's a bridge right into Red Square, saying "I don't think Americans are going to become un-American that fast." Ha! Taylor has obviously never heard about the fluoridation of water. Taylor continued, saying, "They [Americans] still want power. We still have big open roads. People do not want to stop enjoying driving." While we're pretty sure Taylor was simply saying that he didn't think Americans were going to change their tastes so quickly, we do argue with his implication that if you drive a smaller four-cylinder car, you are un-American and you can't possibly enjoy driving; at least not as much as octogenarians floating along in the latest DTS. Any Evo or WRX owners want to chime in? Jalopnik Snap Judgment: We share Jim Taylor's concerns, up to a point. Cadillac has performed one of the most impressive 180-degree brand revolutions in automotive history over the past eight years or so, and Taylor is right to be skeptical of anything that could water-down its newfound momentum. That said, a small, light, properly executed RWD sedan with a torquey turbo four could give Cadillac the "driver's car" that could finally cause a segment of BMW owners to consider defecting. The key words, of course, are "properly executed," but we have more faith in the ability of the wreath-and-crest to pull it of now than ever before. Just don't call it the Cimarron. [Automotive News, Sub. Req.]