Cadillac SRX and XLR nominated for inaugural World Car of the Year Award

With a total of only 32 cars from around the globe even being nominated to enter the competition, the SRX and XLR have already been singled out as superlative examples of international automotive engineering.

The World Car of the Year distinction will be awarded to one grand finalist from the 32 nominees on 16 February 2005, in conjunction with the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, Canada.

Between 1 October and 31 December 2004, a jury made up of 48 journalists, representing over 100 of the world's top automotive print and broadcast outlets will drive all the nominated vehicles.

Following the first round of voting, a short-list of ten vehicles will be created for jury members to focus on in January 2005. The World Car of the Year finalist will then be chosen based on a detailed evaluation according to twenty-three standardized parameters, as well as a final ballot which employs a ranking system considers a combination of the vehicle's merit, value and market significance.

Cadillac's Double Shot
With two models from its current line up nominated for the World Car of the Year Award , Cadillac has already distinguished itself as one of the leading automotive nameplates around the world.

"We are very pleased that two of the key models that are leading the way in Cadillac's brand renaissance have been recognised by such a high profile international forum," said Fadi Ghosn, Marketing Manager for Premium Brands, General Motors.

"The XLR's bold design, unrivalled luxury and peerless performance will no doubt turn heads among the jury, while it is widely agreed that the STS's sophisticated performance, purposeful and balanced handling sets it in a class of its own. We are confident that Cadillac has a strong chance of making its mark on the World Car of the Year Award."